Guest posted a condolence
Monday, January 22, 2018
Who Was Albert K Sellitti, Sr.? Every one of us has our own memories and stories that we could share to honor his memory moving forward, but today I would like to share this tribute. First, he was a gift from God born to Ernani and Mildred (Minie) Sellitti, A brother to Jerry, Ginger, and Gail, And a nephew, a cousin, an uncle, a friend, a student, a good neighbor, a Boyfriend and Husband, a father of 6, and father in law. He was married to our Mom for 32 years, and at the end of her short life, a committed caregiver to Miriam (Mickey),our Mom. He was a Grandfather to 17 grand children And recently a great grandfather to 7 born great grandchildren, with #8 due to arrive this April. He was a long shore man, a dedicated NYPD firefighter, and 1st responder for 33 years He was a Boy Scout troop leader, A Special Olympics game coordinator, An avid golfer. He was the strength when we were weak, and he knew without words how to let us know we were loved. When it came to his own struggles, he never complained, never explained, never asked for help. When someone else was struggling, he empathized and always asked if there was something we needed, something he could do to help, or asked are we ok? One way to describe him was having a rough exterior, soft interior with a giving heart. He was never a materialistic superficial type of guy. He appreciated nature, being outdoors, walking, golfing, camping, boating, skiing, running, and just being a part of it. I've witnessed his respect for the human life and spiritual connection to a higher power. A sarcastic sense of humor that was his personality and also his shield of armor but he knew when to speak from a different place during serious times of sorrow, hurt, or pain. A father to 6 Children, we drove him crazy probably caused his ulcer and also made him quite proud to be our Dad. He walked us all down the aisle and was there for happy times hard times and sad times. Our Dad was never big on exchanging the words I love you, but the things he did, the way he loved our Mother, the way he supported us and protected us, and never said I'm tired or you kids are too much work or I'm out of here, I give up. Never burdened us with his worries fears or complaints Never felt sorry for himself He represented what a real man is with love, care, and respect for others, enormous strength, hard work, and commitment while making time to give back to those less fortunate or in need. We never had the finer things in life growing up. We had a little more than what we needed, but more importantly, we had the love of our family. We had security and stability, and we, as children, always felt rich. It was the little things you might have missed if you didn't pay attention that would say thank you that meant I love you. Our Mom died and things really changed. The laughter was gone, the silence was loud, and we did not know how to ease our Dads pain He was angry at the world, angry with God, and felt as if he there was something more he could have done. The family stayed close, and with time, he would begin to heal and his feet touched the ground again. We would always know she was there, and we were never alone. He was angry. He was heartbroken, and even with everyone in his life, I knew he was lonely . Unfortunately, his grief and stress took a toll, and he suffered a silent heart attack shortly after his 60th birthday. I remember praying right before his surgery, please lord don't take him don't make him suffer and allow him to live and be happy. Then Lord answered that prayer and he healed, retired, and began to enjoy life again slowly and steadily He moved to his 1st new home at the Renaissance Golf Club and met so many friends and fellow golf buddies, traveled, and he was happy, which made us happy. Finally, one day after 12 years, Dad called me on the morning of my sons birthday, a little anxious, not knowing quite how to ask. He said, is it ok if I bring a friend? I would like you to meet her. I was so happy for him and said of course. Well that was Lorraine, who also lost her husband to illness. They met roller skating and hit it off from the beginning and have been long time companions for 15 years now. As Lorraine says, they clicked right away, had a second chance at love, and they got to play every day. Now as if Al didn't have a big enough family, he added an equally large extended family that accepted him, cared about him, and welcomed him into their lives. My father was now doubly blessed. Unfortunately Parkinson's affected him and his ability to control his life as it progressed over the last 5 years. Yet, with Lorraine to push him and his will to live, he fought tooth and nail to keep going even when he wanted to stop. Bottom line: Al Sellitti leaves behind a legacy that anyone can be proud of, And all though we all had different relationships with him and may have loved him differently, we all loved him, and I know he loved us. The one thing that holds true is when times are tough, our family comes together, and with family, love, and respect for each other, we all can get through anything. He will be always loved, ever missed. Written by Daughter, Joy Papaioannou
