Albert Pogorelec Sr.

Albert Pogorelec, Sr., 84, of Clifton passed away on December 5, 2023. Born in Passaic, Albert has been a resident of Clifton for most of his life. Al was a graduate of Pope Pius XII High School ('57) in Passaic and Seton Hall University ('61) in Paterson. He worked as a claims adjuster with Allstate Insurance for 20 years and most recently as an environmental specialist for the Passaic County Sewerage Commission for many years before retiring.
Al was a parishioner of SS Cyril and Methodius RC Church. He was a member of the Slovak Catholic Sokol and the Knights of Columbus Regina Mundi 3969. Al was an avid bowler for over 60 years. He was an accomplished accordion player who loved playing "The Pogorelec Polka" and other polkas at family gatherings. He enjoyed playing "Happy Birthday" to his family and friends. In his younger days he was a talented athlete starring on various baseball and basketball teams. In high school, he led his baseball team to a state championship. He was a left-handed pitcher who threw four no-hitters in his high school career. In college, he was a 1,000 point scorer for the basketball team.
Beloved husband for 47 years to the late Elizabeth "Betty" (Kalemba) who passed away in 2011. Devoted father of Albert Pogorelec, Jr., D.O. and his wife Marcela, and Michael Pogorelec, D.C. and his wife Loretta. Cherished grandfather of Zachary, Emily, Gregory and Natalie. Dear brother of John Pogorelec, Esq. and his wife Phyllis, Steven Pogorelec and his wife Annie, Eugene Pogorelec, D.O., and the late Emil Pogorelec, D.O. Uncle of many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Visiting Sunday, December 10, 2023 from 2-6PM at the Shook Funeral Home, 639 Van Houten Ave., Clifton. Funeral Monday, December 11, 2023 beginning at 8:45AM at the funeral home and 10AM at SS Cyril and Methodius RC Church, Clifton. Interment to follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, Saddle Brook.
In lieu of flowers, donations made in Al's memory to the The Pogorelec Family Endowment, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, Development Office, 800 W. Jefferson Street, Kirksville, MO 63501 or at www.atsu.edu (please specify The Pogorelec Family Endowment) would be greatly appreciated.