Alfred Peter Butti, of Norwood, N.J. gracefully and peacefully passed on October 18, 2016 at the age of 86. Born February 25, 1930 in Fairview, Al grew up in Cresskill and graduated from Tenafly High School. Al served as a Marine (1951-1953) in the Korean War and saw action in the Battle of Pork Chop Hill. Upon his return Al married the love of his life Jean Butti (nee Colombo) on October 9, 1954. They moved to Norwood and were married for 59 blessed years.
Al was a Marine at heart until the day he passed and led every aspect of his life by the United States Marine Corps motto: Semper Fi. (“always faithful” or “always loyal”). Al was a devoted husband, father and friend that treated everyone with dignity and respect. He was an active member of the American Legion Leroy S. Mead Post 111, Closter, N.J. Whatever the cause, Al always had his hand raised. He took great pride in participating in parades honoring his country and veterans. Al especially loved speaking at annual Veterans Day ceremonies at local schools.
Religion always played a big part in Al’s life. He was the first Grand Knight and a founding member of the Knights of Columbus (1985), Council 9021 – Immaculate Conception Church. He served as a lector at the early Sunday mass since the 1970s and the highlight was when he would lead the congregation in hymns such as “Let There Be Peace on Earth” and “Amazing Grace.”
A resident of Norwood for over 60 years, Al contributed to the community in many ways. He was the town’s building inspector for over 30 years and a member of the Ambulance Corp. for many years, including a stint as captain. He also served on the planning board and recreation board. Al coached Norwood baseball for over three decades.
Al was a cement mason in New York City and his hands were involved in many of the beautiful skyscrapers that makeup the NY skyline. He is the longest tenured member (68 years) in the history of the United Cement Mason Union Local 780. His work can also be seen throughout Bergen County as he put in 100s of driveways and patios in his spare time.
Al was an avid fan of the Giants, Rangers and Yankees and proudly wore their team jackets, win or lose. One of his greatest joys was taking his children to watch these teams play – teaching not only the respective sports, but more importantly teaching life lessons.
Al was preceded in death by his wife Jean (2014), his parents Pietro Butti (1977) and Rosa Balzaretti Butti (1936), his stepmother Lena Tagliabue Butti (1953), his beloved sister Angela Rancan (2015) and brother Alvin Butti (2000). He is survived by his son Thomas and his wife Carol of Middletown, N.Y., his daughter Laura Mason and her husband Bruce of River Vale, his son Richard and his wife Deirdre of Marietta, Georgia, and his son Michael and his wife Joanna of Norwood. Adored grandpa of 12 and great-grandfather of six. Loving uncle of many nieces and nephews.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday 10:00 AM at Immaculate Conception Church with interment to follow at Rockland Cemetery, Sparkill, N.Y. Visiting hours are Sunday 2-4 and 7-9 at Pizzi Funeral Home, 120 Paris Avenue, Northvale.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in Al’s name be made to American Legion Leroy S. Mead Post 111, Closter, N.J.
www.pizzifuneralhome.com
To the family of Al Butti,
I have had the honor and privilege of knowing Al for nearly forty years. As a model husband, father, and grandfather, he has been an inspiration to his family, friends, acquaintances, and to me. He never spoke ill of anyone. He would find the good in everyone. Al was a devout Catholic, and never missed a Sunday Mass unless he was in the hospital. He would arrive at the church at 7am for the 8am Mass dressed in a jacket and tie. He would sit in the first row and read the bulletin. During the one hour prior to mass Al and I would chat together. He would always talk about his loving wife and how God blessed him with many years of happiness. He also spoke about his family, and was so grateful to God for all they were to him. We will all miss you Al. Every time I look at the first pew I will remember you. Please give Jean a big huge for me. Until we meet again, may the Lord reward with Heaven’s Peace.
Love and blessings, Deacon Jim