Obituary of Albert J. DiSabatino

Beloved father, grandfather, Army veteran, retired local 638 steam fitter, Albert DiSabatino,94, of Westerleigh, SI, passed peacefully Thursday, September 14th, 2023. Al was born in 1929 to Abraham and Elizbeta DiSabatino and was raised on Union Avenue in Mariners Harbor, Staten Island. Al met his wife Claire at Svea Hall on Post Avenue in Port Richmond. They soon married and had their children John and Linda. They became residents of Home Place in the early 1950's where they were loved and cherished by their wonderful neighbors. Al was a proud, long-time member of the steamfitter's union, local 638, for over fifty years. He was joined by his only son John, where they were able to work side by side for many years. His son John married Jeralynn DiSabatino (nee' Autore) where he stood as his son's best man. John and Jeralynn agreed there was no better fit for the job! Al's daughter-in-law Jeralynn created traditions early on after becoming a part of the family. She hosted Sunday dinner every week, along with birthdays and holidays where Al and Claire made their fondest memories. Al's truest happiness was his granddaughters. He spent countless hours doing puzzles, playing board games, and riding bikes around the neighborhood. Al had an incredibly special bond with his granddaughter Andrea. He looked forward to their weekly visits when he would always offer his wisdom and guidance as they talked about her future goals and plans. Al took pride in his polished appearance. He cherished grooming sessions with his granddaughter's boyfriend, Gino the barber; haircuts and fresh shaves were the regular. Al was particularly happy to help set up a small boxing gym in his cellar, where he would watch Gino "go to town" on the heavy bag. Al will be remembered as a devoted father and grandfather, a hard worker and an incredible neighbor. He was always the first one to lend a helping hand and was selfless up until his final days. He always said we were his reason to live, but little did he know we were living for him. Al is preceded in death by his parents Elizabeta and Abraham DiSabatino, his wife Claire DiSabatino, his daughter Linda Zarro, his brothers Ralph and Sam DiSabatino, and his sister Florence Brown. Al is survived by his son and daughter in law John and Jeralynn DiSabatino, his granddaughters Andrea DiSabatino and Jillian Zarro, his great grandson Oliver, his many nieces and nephews, and his beloved neighbors of home place who were his second family. A special acknowledgement to Sea View nursing home for their kindness and strong efforts in making this difficult time easy on our family. We are truly grateful. Visitation will be held Monday, September 18th at Matthews Funeral Home from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm. Funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, September 19, at 10:00 am, in the funeral home, with interment to follow in St. Mary's Cemetery.