Albert Cvitanovich

Albert Cvitanovich, age 87, a 61 year resident of San Pedro, passed away on April 25, 2009. Albert was born on March 26, 1922 on an island off Croatia called IZ Yell. He came to New York in 1939 at the age of 17 where he embraced his new country. Albert enlisted in the US Army and was sent to Camp Croft in Georgia for training. He proudly fought with the Allied Forces in WWII and became a veteran and part of history. He served under Commander Dwight Eisenhower and General George Patton while they fought through France, survived the Battle of the Bulge, and continued fighting until VE Day in Europe when the war ended. In 1948 he arrived in San Pedro where he felt at home with fellow countrymen. Shortly thereafter, while attending a dance at the Dalmatian-American Club, he met his beloved wife of 59 years, the former Geraldine "Gerry" Mosich; they were married October of 1949. He continued his affiliation with the Club over the course of his life developing many friendships and creating fond memories. After his passion and love for his family and his country, Albert most enjoyed his 35 year career in the commercial industry as a boat owner of the "Vagabond" and as master fisherman on other vessels. He was respected by his peers as a key team player and specialist as a mast man/fish spotter. In addition to his devoted wife, Gerry, he is survived by his loving sons, their wives and cherished grandchildren; Albert and Tricia (Chloe, Rachel and Albert John "AJ"), Steve and Sonia (Natalie, Melissa, and Joey) Cvitanovich. Albert's brother, Miljenko and his family survive him in Croatia. He also leaves behind his brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Nick (Barbara), George (Joynette) and the late Anthony (Doris) Mosich and Linda Mosich; numerous nephews and nieces. He will be missed by his cousins, Ante (Mira) Cvitanovich, Vivian Rakocija and Ante Zuvich and their families. Albert will be forever remembered by his adoring families, relatives and friends for his beautiful smile, extraordinarily kind and respectful demeanor, and most of all for his warmth and wonderful sense of humor - always joking even when ill. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Dalmatian-American Club Scholarship Fund c/o the president, or to the Little Sisters of the Poor. The funeral mass in celebration of Albert's life will be held on Thursday at 10:30am, April 30, 2009 at Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in San Pedro. Interment with Military Honors immediately following the Mass will be at Green hills Cemetery.

"Albert, may you rest in peace with the angels until we meet again."