Al Roehl, a Thoroughbred owner and regular participant in handicapping contests, died on March 24 in Lexington, KY after a brief illness.
Among peers, his handicapping skills earned him spots in various challenges including national tournaments. He owned racehorses both with his wife Jan, and in small partnerships. His past runners include Prayer Service, an allowance winner at Churchill Downs, Oaklawn Park and Ellis Park. The gelding is retired at the Roehl's Lexington farm after being retrained to pull a carriage. “Al was always fun,” said Steve Margolis, who was among the trainers Roehl employed. “He was a dear friend, not just a client. He was always happy no matter how his horses ran. He was so knowledgeable about the game that he understood why a horse did not win.”
In addition to Jan, Al is survived by his four children, Jeff (Gina), Melanie (Bob), Tyler and Christopher; stepchildren Sara and Alex (Erin); and four grandchildren. A celebration befitting a man who led a big life will be held in Chicago this summer. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of one's choice.
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