Alphonse John "Al" Sgaglione

Mr. Alphonse John “Al” Sgaglione, age 88, passed away on Tuesday, May 14, 2013 in the comfort of his home with his loving family by his side. Born in Brooklyn on January 27, 1925, Alphonse was the son of the late Nicholas and Lucy (Petrella) Sgaglione. He was raised and educated in Brooklyn. A proud veteran, he honorably served his country in the United States Navy from 1943-1946. At one time, he was wed to Emilia Muojo. On May 14, 1970 he married his soul mate, the former Joann Wortendyke with whom he shared 42 years prior to her passing on November 4, 2012. Al and Joann loved each other wholeheartedly and shared in a very special bond. During his working life, Al was employed as a Police Officer with the New York Port Authority from 1952-1973. From 1961-1980 he was the president of the Police Conference of New York State. This was his life work; during his time there he accomplished many things to benefit all police officers including, 20 year retirement plans, the Heart Bill, and the 207C injury in the line of duty, among many other achievements. Later on, he worked with the Teamsters where he held the position of Executive Administration for the NY Teamsters Health & Hospital Fund, the position from which he retired. Al enjoyed spending time with his family, and sharing a daily cup of coffee with his friends after he retired. He was a man of strength, yet gentle of spirit. His character was built upon his benevolent beliefs and the principles of honor and integrity. He volunteered his time at Bingo at his home parish, the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. He was a member of the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) and kept abreast of legislation, bills, and enactments through its newsletter, and participated in lobbying in Albany. Al is survived by his children, Lucille Trivisonno of NJ, Marie and Martin “Marty” Cohen of White Plains, Judy Sgaglione, and Carol Sgaglione, both of NJ, Tia L. Yezzi of Boston, and John A. Sgaglione of Utica; and his grandchildren, Joseph; David, Jessica, and Rebecca; Jacob, Marissa, Taylor; and Vincent and his mother Jacqueline Vatalaro. He also leaves his brother, Michael Sgaglione of Long Island; many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and in-laws Mary “Midge” Barnes of Schenectady, and John and Daphne Wortendyke of FL. He will be missed tremendously by his dog Metty. He was predeceased by his brother, Nicholas Sgaglione; and his in-laws Rynier Wortendyke, Nicholas Wortendyke, and Allan Debevose. Gratitude is offered to the nurses and staff of Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. and the staff of 2 West at the Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare Center for all their care and compassion. The family will honor Al’s life in a private gathering. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Al's funeral service and Celebration of Life which will commence on Friday morning at 11:30 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes where his Mass of Christian Burial will be offered by Rev. Joseph Salerno. The family will receive visitors at the conclusion of the service. Expressions of sympathy in the form of donations may be directed to Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc.; envelopes will be available at the service. Committal service and Interment with Military Honors will take place graveside in Calvary Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.

Alphonse John "Al" Sgaglione

January 27, 1925 - May 14, 2013