A LIFE WELL LIVED: World War II Veteran and Retired Newark Police OfficerPhilip Alfano, Passes Away at 98
/A LIFE WELL LIVED: World War II Veteran and Retired Newark Police OfficerPhilip Alfano, Passes Away at 98
by George Beck Jr. Ph.D.
The man is a success who has lived well, laughed often, and loved much; who has gained the respect of intelligent men and the love of children; who has filled his niche and accomplished his task; who leaves the world better than he found it, whether by an improved poppy, a perfect poem, or a rescued soul; who never lacked appreciation of earth's beauty or failed to express it; who looked for the best in others and gave the best he had.
- Robert Louis Stevenson
This is who Philip Alfano, Jr. was; loved and respected as a man who was a giver, not a taker. In life, it is the everyday man who gives of himself for the betterment of others who leaves a legacy greater than any worldly riches or long-forgotten titles.
All too often, we are mistakenly fixated on fame and fortune — emulating supposed role models we see on television or sporting fields, only to be let down, shocked that somebody who had all the success the world could offer somehow messed it all up.
But what if everything we were led to believe about success was wrong? That it's not how much money is in your bank account, the car you drive, how many fans adore you or the title you hold; instead, the accurate measurement is determined by how you love, are loved and enjoy life to its fullest. Philip Alfano Jr.'s life is a prime example.
Philip Alfano Jr. grew up in North Newark, born in Jersey City on September 19, 1924, to the late Philip and Blanche (Conversano) Alfano. He lived a long life of good health, devoted his life to service, and inspired many of his children and grandchildren to seek vocations in public service. The Alfanos are legendary in Newark, mainly in the Fire Department, where generations of the Alfano family continue to protect and serve the city proudly.
Early on, Alfano sought a life of public service. During World War II, he enlisted as a gunner on four U.S. Navy ships protecting fuel and supplies into Guam and Saipan — where the B-29s would launch and bomb Tokyo. The Navy took him all over the world and through hostile areas of the South Pacific, supporting the war effort as a 17-year-old kid from New Jersey.
While at a port in Portland, Oregon, in 1943, Alfano met his future bride of 74 years, Beryl. After the war, he'd return to Portland, and the happy couple would resettle in Newark, having seven children who grew into dozens of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
After the war, Alfano worked in a jewelry factory, got laid off, and at that time, had five children and needed steady employment. A friend on the Newark police force suggested he'd make a good officer and urged him to take the upcoming police exam.
Alfano began his career in law enforcement in 1958 and spent the next decade working the radio car, making many arrests and risking his life in a city where eventually, the infamous riots would break out in 1967. Alfano was known at the Newark Police Department for his kindness and ability to help other officers see that although law enforcement is a complex and stressful profession, life both inside and outside of work is to be enjoyed and appreciated. During the eulogy at Alfano's funeral service, a former coworker remarked how even during some of the worst days, if you were paired with Alfano, somehow you ended up laughing.
Time spent with family is what Philip cherished most of all. He purchased a summer home at Culver's Lake, which was the heartbeat and gathering place for extended family and friends, and, where after 1982, he spent his retirement years, along with winters in Boynton Beach, FL.
Alfano understood that time was our most precious commodity. He enjoyed every year by dividing his time at Culver Lake in Branchville, NJ, and Boynton Beach, while also taking RV trips to national parks, cruises to the Caribbean and Canada, and vacationing at the Jersey shore. Years later, he was off with his wife Beryl to explore Italy, where he visited his parents' hometowns of Palomonte and Eboli, as he proudly had said, "We did it all!" The simple life brought Alfano great joy. He often shared meals and a glass of wine with family and friends, especially one of his signature dishes, linguini and clam sauce. He also took pride in his garden of rose bushes, fruit trees, basil plants and grape vines and loved making wine.
Every day Alfano woke up eager to enjoy the day — to savor the beauty and majesty of life. The pace was purposed, and he lived in the moment, always present with his thoughts and actions. He had many friends of all ages and was active until his last day on October 22, 2022.
It is truly an honor to have Alfano on the cover of Blue Magazine. He was a cherished friend of our publication and regularly attended events. His life was exemplary and inspiring as he had an entire beautiful life with many blessings. Alfano was able to see what was important in life and what was not. Even at 98, he was forward-thinking with a positive attitude, empathy and compassion for the many family and friends who visited him often.
He was our most significant role model and friend, and we hope that from his successful life, you see that the "little man" is actually the "big man" and that you adjust your life to live it so wonderfully as Alfano did.
Blue Magazine salutes Police Officer Phillip Alfano Jr. for his life of service, heroism and love. Rest in peace our dear friend. Your memory is an everlasting blessing to all whose lives you touched.
