Alfred Ponterdolph

Alfred J. "Big Al" Ponterdolph passed away on November 4, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of 102 years of a life well-lived.

He was born in Jersey City and had amazing life experiences as part of the "Greatest Generation". He went cross-country to California as a 15-year-old in the Civilian Conversation Corps (CCC) and helped in the building of the Shasta Dam. He enlisted in the US Navy and spent 3 years in the Pacific on the destroyer USS Philip, as a radioman third class, even learning Morse code. He also spent time in the US Merchant Marines, ferrying prisoners back to Europe after World War 2. He worked at M.W. Kellogg in industrial x-ray before working many years as an auto mechanic.

He traveled all over the world with his beloved wife Edna, always coming back with fun stories. He enjoyed life to the fullest and put a smile on all he came in contact with. He leaves behind a loving family and close friends who have many joyful stories and memories of him. He was always happy and had a kind word for everyone. In the last few years, he spent many happy hours with his friends at the park and at Winners. He loved music and dancing; dancing all the way to 102.

He was preceded by his wife Edna (nee Nelson) and his sisters Lucy Leone, Jean Szatmary, and Mary Murray. He leaves behind his daughters Carol Hrychynszyn (John), Kerrie Delli Santi (Ernie), son Alfred Ponterdolph (Mara), grandchildren Tracy Barbossa (Dave), Jill Mahoney (Jimmy), Jennifer Trojan (Mark), Lauren Brattole, Annabelle Ponterdolph (Chase Morrin), Joseph Ponterdolph, Ernie Delli Santi Jr (Jodi), Monica Sabatini (Federico), great-grandchildren Jack Trojan, Emily Trojan, Morgan Barbossa, Alyssa Barbossa, Anthony Brattole, John Brattole, Joseph Delli Santi, Dominic Sabatini, Giuseppe Sabatini, Lucio Sabatini, Romeo Sabatini, many nieces and nephews, extended family, and friends. He also leaves behind his trusted caretaker Donna Fahrion. Funeral Saturday 8:30 AM from the Caiola-Stellato Funeral Home, 691 Avenue C, Bayonne. Funeral Mass 9:30 AM St. Henry R.C. Church. Entombment to follow at Fairview Cemetery, Westfield. Friends & family will be received Friday 2-4 PM & 7-9 PM.