Alan Silcock, local activist, dies at 69

Newport Beach community activist Alan Silcock, who spearheaded changes to make West Newport safer and quieter on the Fourth of July, died Thursday after a three-year battle with cancer. He was 69.

Born in Los Angeles, Silcock was retired from a position as human resources director at aircraft manufacturer Rockwell International.

In the 10 years he lived in Newport Beach, Silcock got involved with city committees on bike trails and water quality, and he worked with the West Newport Beach Assn. for about eight years, said his wife, Sharon Silcock.

The association helped get the city to address safety concerns in West Newport, and Alan Silcock himself initiated a biennial forum for City Council candidates that is widely attended and watched on local TV.

Even while fighting cancer, Silcock paid attention to details and remained involved in the community, said Paul Watkins, who took over the presidency of the West Newport Beach Assn. about five months ago when Silcock retired from it.

When someone missed a meeting, failed to turn in a report or otherwise didn’t meet expectations, Silcock would gently let them know in a manner Watkins called “the wrath of Al.”

“He just inspired confidence and the desire to contribute in all of us because he was so good at it,” Watkins said.

“Al was always respectful, but he also made it clear that our little group needed to have representation and a voice in city matters, and he’ll be remembered for that legacy.”

City Councilman Steve Rosansky, who represents West Newport, called Silcock a leader in the community as well as a mentor.

“He helped me a lot when I came on the City Council and was always willing to volunteer and put in his time,” Rosansky said.

Watkins said Silcock had “a winning way about him,” and Sharon Silcock said even though he’s been retired for more than a decade, people he worked with still remember him fondly enough to write her long letters.

Alan Silcock is survived by his wife, Sharon; a son, Scott Silcock; a daughter, Lisa Haydt; and four grandchildren.

Private services will be held at Pacific View Memorial Park, and donations may be made in Silcock’s name to the American Cancer Society at (800) 227-2345.