Albert "Al" Bertani, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and community leader, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida. He was just six days short of his 93rd birthday.
He was born on February 8th, 1932 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. As a first generation American, Al was the only one in his family to go to college. He graduated from Penn State University in 1955 with a degree in Industrial Psychology, setting the stage for a career dedicated to fostering growth and opportunity for others.
Al began his professional journey with the General Electric Company in Upstate New York as part of their Employee Relations Development Program. He relocated to Orlando, Florida, where he worked at The Martin Company for ten years in the Personnel and Training Departments when the Space Program was at its peak. In 1968, Al moved his family to Jacksonville after accepting a position with the Port Authority as its first Personnel Manager. His leadership skills quickly earned him opportunities to serve in many managerial roles in human resources with numerous corporations in the Jacksonville area. One of his most satisfying accomplishments was operating his Stop Smoking Clinic where he received hundreds of letters from grateful clients who considered their lives saved by his efforts.
Al's dedication extended far beyond his professional life. A devoted Catholic and active member of Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Ponte Vedra Beach, he served as a Eucharistic Minister and found great joy in his faith community. In 2000, Carol and Al spent three weeks in Rome as volunteers for the Jubilee which is a year-long celebration of faith and pilgrimage. Al nourished his spiritual journey through retreats such as Cursillo and CHRP (Christ Renews His Parish).
His commitment to service was evident through his extensive involvement in various civic organizations such as the Mental Health Association, the United Way, the Equal Opportunity Council and the Private Industrial Council. His tireless efforts left an indelible mark on countless lives.
Known for his smile, wit and endless repertoire of jokes endeared him to all who knew him. Above all else, Al cherished his family. He considered them his greatest achievement and took immense pride in their accomplishments and character. He often expressed that his wife Carol was his greatest blessing-a sentiment that reflected their deep bond.
Al is survived by his loving wife Carol; daughter Linda Bertani, son Chris Bertani; daughters Lorraine David, Melanie Bertani, Jennifer Walley, and Brenda Zino; their spouses; 19 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. His legacy lives on through them and through the countless individuals whose lives he touched.
A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Ponte Vedra Beach on Tuesday, February 25, 2025 at 1:00 PM with a reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Parkinson's Foundation where Al was an active participant and looked forward to their weekly support group meetings.
https://www.jaxhopeinc.org/jacksonville-beaches-parkinsons-support-group
