In Memoriam

Albert F. Dieterich

Albert F. Dieterich, passed away peacefully at his home in Garden City on Friday, March 7, 2008.

Al was born in Franklin Square but built his home in Garden City more than fifty-five years ago. He and his wife, Florence, raised their three sons here to enjoy the advantages of the Village and the schools.

Al retired as Vice-President of Bulova Watch Company in 1989, when the factory was relocated to Lancaster, PA. He continued to work in the International Division traveling extensively throughout Europe, Asia and South America. He went on to do consulting work with Johnson and Johnson and designed surgical screws. Assignment was completed and retirement was imminent once again. His energies, his talents and his knowledge were channeled to helping his sons in their endeavors. Al completed a certificate in Financial Planning at Adelphi University with the intention of using it for family finances.

He served in the Navy towards the end of World War II, which interrupted his studying at Hofstra University. He returned to complete his work and moved on to Brooklyn Polytechnic Institute receiving a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering. He continued his studies, receiving a Masters of Industrial Engineering at New York University. He also earned a Professional Engineering License. His computer studies began at C.W. Post at a time when one computer occupied an entire building with its own cooling system.

A source of enjoyment for Al was to help neighbors and friends with their technical problems. There are many homes on Adams Street, and throughout the village, that Al helped the owners to repair, replace, etc.

Boy Scouting was another enjoyment for Al. He was active in Winter Camping, called "Operation Igloo" with the Scouts at the Community Church. He was still offering his knowledge as recently as this February to his grandson. J.D. who is working to complete his Eagle Scout rank.

An avid bridge player, affectionately known as "the Dean" of the bridge table, he continued to play throughout many of the physical misfortunes that plagued his last seven years.

Al led a rich, rewarding life, giving much to his family and friends. He leaves his wife of fifty-nine years, his three sons Douglas, Keith and Kevin, his daughter-in-law Katherine, grandson James Douglas, granddaughter Ruth Robinson, and his sister Pauline. He will be sorely missed.

Donations in Al's name may be contributed to support liver diseases research Mt. Sinai Medical Center's Office of Development, 1425 Madison Avenue, Box 1049, New York, NY 10029 or Parkinson Research Foundation, 420 Beach Road - Suite 701, Sarasota FL. 34242