Alexander “Al” Weber Jr, founder and CEO of Apex Parks Group, has died aged 64.

Weber was a veteran in the attractions sector with nearly five decades of experience, starting his career aged 16 as a ride operator at Coney Island Amusement Park in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Joining Carowinds in 1976 as director of park operations, Weber worked his way up the ranks at Paramount Parks to become its president in 2002, holding the position until its sale to Cedar Fair in 2006. From there he served as interim president and CEO for Six Flags, before becoming its COO in 2010, a position he would hold for two years.

Most recently, Weber was president and CEO of Apex Parks, whose chain of US-based attractions includes Big Kahuna’s Waterpark, Martin’s Fantasy Land, Sahara Sam’s Oasis and more than 10 FECs.

Also a member of the IAAPA Board of Directors, Weber was set to become its chair in 2019, becoming first vice chair in 2018, then succeeding Liseberg CEO Andreas Andersen the following year.

"We have lost a visionary, an advocate, and a friend,” said IAAPA president and CEO, Paul Noland. “Al was the embodiment of everything that is great about this business, and his impact on our industry will live on for generations to come. On behalf of IAAPA, our Board of Directors, staff, and membership, we send our deepest condolences to Al's wife Bonnie, Al's family, and his industry friends, especially his colleagues at Apex Parks Group."

Apex Parks founder Al Weber Jr to lead IAAPA in 2019