Obituary of Alfonso Michael DeRosa

Alfonso “Big Al” DeRosa, passed away on September 11, 2019.  He was 83. 

Al was predeceased by his parents Alfonso and Ann DeRosa.

He is survived by his wife Frances, four daughters, Francine and her husband James King, Vikki and her husband Michael McGuiness, Kim and her husband Joseph Budrewicz, Dawn and her husband James McCaffery, and his twelve grandchildren Jimmy and Kimberly King; Michael, Kelly, Matthew and Ryan McGuiness; Joey, Max and Shane Budrewicz and James Ryan, Sean and Brian McCaffery.

Al joined the U.S. Air Force at the age of 17 and served for four years.  He later proudly served in the New York City Police Department before retiring July 21,1978. 

Al was an active member of the Blue Knights NJ XV (The Blue Knights International Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club).

Al loved being surrounded by family and friends and pursued a wide range of interests.  He enjoyed doting on his children and grandchildren, rebuilding and restoring vehicles, pursuing a life-long interest in racehorses, customizing his Harley motorcycle as a tribute to 9/11, and traveling to motorcycle shows to share his passion with fellow bike enthusiasts.

Anyone who knew him, knew he was a great husband, father, grandfather and friend.  The door to the DeRosa home was always open and a seat at the family dinner table was always available.  He was tough and intimidating yet compassionate and caring. Everyone loves “Big Al”.

Friends and family may visit on Thursday, September 12th from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm at Higgins Memorial Home, 20 Center Street, Freehold.  Funeral Mass will be held on Friday September 13th, at 10 am at Saint Joseph’s Church, 91 Stillhouse Road, Millstone Township. Interment to follow at Saint Joseph’s Cemetery, Millstone Township. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Big Al’s name to Toys for Tots (toysfortots.org) or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org).