Peter F. Alfano, Sr. a lifelong resident of New Rochelle, passed away peacefully on August 9th at the age of 84 after a brief battle with Pancreatic Cancer. He was born in the West End of New Rochelle on March 10, 1936 to Francesco and Mary (DiGirolamo) Alfano. After the sudden passing of his father in 1949, Peter became the man of his family at the young age of 12 helping to care for and provide for his mother and two younger sisters. Peter attended New Rochelle Schools and graduated from New Rochelle High School. He bravely served in the United States Army in Korea. Shortly after his discharge he married his high school sweetheart and love of his life Janet Penzine on April 18, 1959. They shared 61 wonderful years of marriage together.
Peter was a loyal employee of Imperial Farms for over 40 years and in his retirement a dedicated and proud employee of Saint Joseph’s Residence in New Rochelle. He loved to travel with Janet and his family and especially enjoyed over 50 years of summers at the Jersey Shore.
The most important part of Peter’s life was time spent with family. The only thing Pete enjoyed more than watching the New York Yankees was attending every baseball and softball game his son and grandchildren played in. He was the proudest spectator you’d ever find. He was a role model for so many. He is survived by his wife Janet, children Maria and Stephen Garito, and Peter and Marilyn Alfano. He was the extremely proud and loving grandfather to Stephanie and RJ Richards, Leanna and Eddie Stokes, Peter Alfano and Dara DiMarco, Michael and Erica Alfano, Steven and Ariana Alfano and Sam and Stephanie Garito. His love for his family only grew deeper with the addition of his great grandchildren Mia, Emma, Leo and Robbie who he adored. Peter also leaves his two sisters Tina Alfano and Frances Szymanski along with many nieces, nephews and extended family to cherish his memory.
Pete was an extremely strong but very gentle man who was relied upon by many. He taught us the true meaning of being devoted and loyal to ones family. He will most definitely be missed by all who were blessed enough to love him.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Peter’s name as this was a charity near and dear to his heart.
Visiting hours will be Wednesday 4-8pm at Sisto & Paino Inc. 16 Shea Pl. New Rochelle. A funeral Mass is scheduled for Thursday 10:30am at Holy Family Church.
Entombment will follow at Ferncliff Cemetery.
