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Alfred Politzer Obituary

POLITZER Alfred Ruks Politzer Beloved husband of Abigail Joan (Bergsma) Politzer, adoring father of Bonnie Katherine Politzer, devoted son of Ieva Ruks Politzer and Peter Politzer, cherished brother of Marianna Gebhardt and Irena Politzer. He is also survived by his parents-in-law, Donald and Claudia Bergsma, the Dajevskis family, the Ray family, and many other dear family members, friends and neighbors. He joins in rest his grandparents, Eduard and Irene Ruks, Alfred and Anna Politzer, and Helga and Evalds Dajevskis. He was a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, and a veteran of the US Navy. A Memorial Service will be held Saturday April 23, 2011 at 1:30 o'clock at Patterson's Spring Hill, the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Atlanta Pet Rescue and Adoption, Atlanta, GA, http://atlantapetrescue.org/donate/ and the Greater New Orleans Foundation: The Gulf Coast Oil Spill Fund, http://www.gnof.org/looking-back-the-gulf-coast-oil-spill-fund/. Online memorials may be made at hmpattersonspringhill.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Times-Picayune on Apr. 22, 2011.

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Lily (Chen) Fish

January 31, 2019

Dear Politzer Family,

I am so sorry to learn of Alfred's passing. He and I were friends in high school ( we went to Franklin together for a year before he went Brother Martin) and lost touch a few years later. He was a good friend- funny thoughtful and smart. In those teen years, when it's so easy to be negative and moody, he never had a bad thing to say about anyone. Having an older brother, I found that hard to believe but I did believe him.

I remember hanging out on weekend nights in small groups of 3 or 4, talking earnestly about things that were so important at the time. We lost touch after freshman year of college, but not before I showed him a picture of a young man I had met. My boyfriend was a year older and played in a band. I thought it was terribly exciting but Alfred just shook his head and said Nah, you can do better'. He knew before I did that dating a musician, in Austin, in the 90s, would be a ride. I'm sad that I'll never get to share with Alfred the story of that ride with my now husband, (and former musician)or hear his story. I'm sure we would have found humor in the valleys, plateaus and peaks.

He will be missed.

David and Shannon Hattier

June 5, 2012

Dear Politzer family,
Just wanted to say still thinking of you in our thoughts and prayers and truly pray you have been finding the strength through the past year. We miss Al greatly and he is always in our thoughts and prayers.

Boyd Weiger

September 24, 2011

Dear Politzer family,

I served with Al on the USS John C. Stennis where we spent many, many hours together on the same watch team, and we often toured the ports we visited together. I can still hear his booming laugh and see the big grin that he always had on his face. I truly enjoyed working with Al and getting to know him. I consider him a true friend, and a person only has so many of those in a lifetime. I am deeply saddened to hear of his passing, and my prayers are with you and your family.

Ronit Walker

August 18, 2011

Dear Abigail and Bonnie,

I worked with Alfred at the Office of State Administrative Hearings. From the first day that I met him, I knew he was going to be a superstar. He was very bright, personable, and hardworking, but more than that he had an optimistic and sunny spirit that energized everyone around him. It was delightful to watch him speak about his family as it was clear there was nothing more important to him. He loved Abigail and Bonnie so much. He was truly a treasure and the earth has lost an angel.

Dustin Sanchez

July 4, 2011

Dear Politzer family. I used to lift weights with Al and Jason Chupp onboard the U.S.S. John C. Stennis. I only knew Al for a short time, but I know that he was a powerful man. He always gave everything he had and encouraged you to do the same. May God comfort you during this time.

David Hattier

June 23, 2011

To the Politzer family,
Al was and will always remain one of the best friends a person could have. Me and my brothers have enjoyed so many wonderful times growing up with him as a friend. He was the type of person that was always kind and willing to help. He also had a great laugh. We have such wonderful memories of driving across the lake to the property and walking through the woods as kids. Of course trying to find whatever animals we could. Also going to saints games when we were younger and making paper plans to throw out on the field. Growing up together we had so many wonderful times. He was truly a great friend and will be missed but the memories and his spirit will always be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. David and Shannon Hattier

Eric Hatfield

May 19, 2011

Alfred was in my kindergarten class at Cabrini. I was stunned to hear of his passing. I can see, from his obit and from the remarks here, that he helped make the world a better place while he was here and that he was loved. My deepest condolences.

Carson Medley

May 12, 2011

I am shocked to hear about the loss of Alfred. I met him 10 years ago when I worked at Tulane. His sister, Rena and I, worked together. I remember being in awe of Alfred, almost ashamed of myself for lacking his same courage and optimism. He was one of the most physically and mentally strong young men I had ever met. He had a smile that was infectious. He never seemed to have a bad day. He was so courageous. I remember how hard he worked as a student (math at the time was the bane of his existence), after returning from serving his country. I recall the funny times with him. He once (or Rena did) hoodwinked me into helping him move. About ten hours and 5,ooo flights of stairs later, the move was complete (yes, my back was wrenched but I had to "man-up" for Alfred). We then sat back, laughed, drank a lot of cold beer, and I watched him eat seven burgers without the bun. I have not seen Alfred for a decade, but I have often thought of him. And he sure did love his sisters. They protected each other. I will always remember him. Whether it was football, friends, school, or family, he was always there and loyal. I knew him at that pivotal point in a man's life where he is trying to figure out his place on the earth. He was a seeker. An inspiration. Never quit. And as I write this, I see his muscles bulging in a white T-shirt as he walks across campus with a large smile on his face, even larger backpack slung across his shoulder, thinking: "What am I doing here with all these kids?' God bless you, Alfred. Heaven now has one of its strongest soldiers. I will always remember you. Rest in peace, friend. Keep those burgers on the grill.

Jeffrey Gazaway

May 12, 2011

Dear Politzer Family - I was deeply saddened at the news of Al's passing. I enjoyed working with him during his time in the Navy and came to know him as a friend. His passing was truely a loss to all of us. Al proved my point that a large impact can be made while uttering very few words. Our prayers are with you.

Rose Ranzino Martin

May 11, 2011

So sad to hear the news of a great childhood friend. I lived down the block from Alfred and attended grammar school with him. Such a great,sincere person! Every evening after school,Alfred and the entire Politzer family always made the neighborhood children on Bancroft feel welcomed. Thanks for so many wonderful childhood memories to cherish and hold on to forever!! Will keep Alfred and his family in my prayers.

Vanassa Douglas

May 2, 2011

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know you have my deepest sympathy.

Vanassa Douglas

Ed & Ilene Catoire

April 29, 2011

Our deepest condolences to Abigail, Bonnie, Ieva, Peter, Kika and Rena. We have watched Alfred grow into a very sucessful young man. Ilene and I were very proud of Alfred and loved him very much. We will keep Alfred and all of you in our prayers.

Love,
Ed & Ilene

Laura Warren

April 29, 2011

Dear Politzer family,
I'm so sad for your loss, the loss of a truly amazing person. But if there's a warm, sandy beach in Heaven, Alfred is on it, playing with Lucky in the sun and looking down on us with warmth, grateful that so many people loved him. You are all in my prayers.

April 27, 2011

Marianna and Politzer family,
Please accept my condolences and deepest sympathy on your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
George Moore

Skelly Kreller

April 27, 2011

Dear Politzer family,
We were so sorry to hear of Alfred's passing. Our prayers are with you at this sad time.
The Krellers

Christian Clement

April 26, 2011

My heartfelt condolences to Dr. Bergsma, Abigail, family and the Politzer family. My prayers are with the families for their loss and the sudden nature. May the Almighty God touch the surviving families to give them peace, strength and courage to remember Alfred fondly and celebrate his life.

Leif Palmer

April 26, 2011

Words cannot express the sadness and sense of loss that you must be now feel. Please accept my condolences. I knew Alfred for only a couple of years here in the EPA Region 4 Office of Regional Counsel -- but to know Alfred only briefly is to have made a great friend for life.

He is greatly missed,

Leif Palmer

Humberto Guzman

April 25, 2011

Abigale and the Politzer Family,

I'm very sorry to hear of Alfred's passing. I was shocked when I heard the sad news. I met Alfred at an EPA recruitment fair at the Cobb Galleria a few months ago. We spent the afternoon together at the job fair, and I was very impressed with him. He was a great guy! I will pray for you.

Humberto Guzman

Arveita Lomax

April 25, 2011

Michael and family,
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Arveita Lomax

April 24, 2011

ABIGALE AND THE POLITZER FAMILY. I WAS DEEPLY SADDENED TO LEARN OF ALFRED'S PASSING. I TAUGHT HIM PIANO FROM THE AGE OF 7 TO 14. WE HAD AVERY SPECIAL RELATIONSHIP AND I ENJOYED HIM AS A STUDENT AS WELL AS APPRECIATING HIS PLEASANT PERSONALITY. I HURT FOR YOU ABIGALE AND HIS PARENTS AND ESPECIALLY HIS MOTHER AND SISTERS OF WHOM I HAVE HAD A VERY CLOSE RELATIONSHIP. MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL. JO ANN HERBERT AITKEN. NEW ORLEANS, LA.

Wendy Van Wootten

April 24, 2011

Abigail, Bonnie and family,

I never met Alfred, but have heard wonderful stories from your sister, Amy. Please know you and the entire family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Matt Robbins

April 24, 2011

My prayers are with you at this stunning time. I said hi to Alfred just last week when he was tending to business in the RCRA Division. He was well respected by the compliance staff, a high tribute for anyone serving the public.

The suddeness of his passing is a reminder to all of us, to follow Alfred's example of living and loving fully in the time you have.

May God give you peace and comfort now and over time.

Ernie Cronin

April 23, 2011

Dear Politzer Family,
I am saddened to hear about your loss. I got to know Al while I was stationed onboard the John C. Stennis. It was actually Al and Jason Chupp that got me into working out while I was onboard. I will always remember his laugh and how he always brought a smile to everyone. Me and my family pray that the Lord give you peace and comfort through your loss and all the days ahead. Ernie, Kristen, Claire, & Garrett Cronin.

Dina Skinner

April 23, 2011

Abigail and Bonnie,
We are praying for you in this troubled time. We are forever available to you both and keep you in our prayers. We stand beside you and give you our empathy and our love. May the hands of God console you in your grief. You remain in our hearts.
Love, The Skinners

April 23, 2011

Dear Politzer Family,
It is so sad to learn of your loss. During my times on board the John C Stennis with Al, he was always full of life and laughter. I will never forget the time he and Jason Chupp made fun of me for running away from an opossum while we were fishing in Norfolk! We pray the Lord's comfort and peace cover you and lead you in the days ahead. Jeff, Melissa, Abby, Chloe & Garrett Carr

April 23, 2011

Dear Abigail & Bonnie,
Words cannot express the sorry in our hearts for you and your family. Know that you are in our thoughts and in our prayers.
Know that God will be with you in the difficult days that follow and that His perpetual light will shine upon Alfred.
With love and prayers,
Dan & Barb Olmsted

Jean Augillard

April 23, 2011

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.

April 23, 2011

Dear Politer Family, please accept my most heartfelt sympathy for your loss. Alfred and my son (Grady) Jason met while in the Navy and became close friends. My late husband and I were privileged to meet Alfred when he came to N.C. to atend my son's wedding. What a wonderful person! Such a joy to be around him.
Although it's difficult today to see beyond the sorrow, may looking back in memory help comfort you tomorrow.

Dolores Chupp and the Chupp family

Tangela Chupp

April 23, 2011

Our hearts have been so heavy since the news of Al's passing. He was such a good guy. Grady(Jason) was upset that he will not be able to come pay his last respects, due to issues at work. Please know that you all are in our thouhgts and prayers.

Jennifer Parker

April 23, 2011

Dear Politzer family: My thoughts and prayers go out to you. May God bless you and keep you until you are reunited with Alfred in heaven.

April 22, 2011

Dear Abigail, Bonnie & Family,

Alfred was such a pleasent person to meet in the hallways at The Childrens Center @ All Saints, My God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Ms. Melinda

Melissa Heath

April 22, 2011

Dear Politzer family: Alfred was a cheerful, smart guy and an asset to the EPA office both professionally and personally. I hope that it brings some comfort to know that so many share your loss. I feel fortunate to have known him. Please accept my sincere condolences.

Matt Thurlow

April 22, 2011

Politzer Family,

I am very sorry to hear about your terrible loss. I worked with Alfred on an environmental case and came to know and respect him. Alfred was a class act. He was passionate about his work and very effective. Alfred's warmth and good sense of humor made it a pleasure to work with him. He will be missed. -Matt Thurlow, Department of Justice

April 22, 2011

Abigail and Bonnie, please know that your Alfred was a true person. One thing I can say about him is that his smile was real. Even though he no longer worked with the Office of General Counsel, I would see him in the building and as usual,you saw his smile first. Thank you so much for sharing him with us. God Bless you and your family during this time. Vernecia Clark

Fran Flurry

April 22, 2011

As a close friend of the Politzer family for over 40 years, I loved watching Alfred grow from an adorable toddler, to a rambunctious teenager, to an outstanding young man. I was thrilled when he found Abigail and started a family. It was with shock and disbelief that I learned that such a wonderful young life has been cut short. I wish that I could be there in person to express my sympathy and deep affection for Alfred's family. To Ieva, Peter, Abigail, Bonnie, Kika and Rena: I pray that God will give you strength and bring you peace.

Heather Horton

April 22, 2011

Abigail, I am so sorry. Alfred was such a delight as an intern in our office, where he worked during his time in law school. I loved talking to him about Latvia, New Orleans, the Navy, and of course all things Duke. I was fortunate enough to call Alfred not just a colleague but also a friend. I adored Alfred and think so very highly of you and your precious Bonnie. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Heather Horton, CDC Office of the General Counsel

Glendale Jones

April 22, 2011

Abigail, Bonnie and the Politzer Family,

I am saddened to hear of the loss of your husband, father, son and brother. I never met Alfred, but I heard so much about him through his sister, Marianna, I feel like I know him. May the Spirit of God's grace, peace and strength be with you all during this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Dena Hong

April 22, 2011

Abigail and Bonnie,

Words can't express how sorry we are to hear of your loss. We have so much enjoyed getting to know your entire family. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers, and I know that all of your neighbors will continue to provide support in any way that we can.

April 22, 2011

I worked with Alfred Politzer at the Office of State Administrative Hearings (OSAH) where he was a Staff Attorney for a year or more. He was an intelligent, hard-working, terrific person, who loved his wife, and was so proud when his daughter was born. We are all so devastated by his tragic, early death. His family is in my thoughts and prayers. Everyone who knew Alfred, and I was one of the lucky ones, will miss him.
Barbara Brown, Atlanta, GA

Stephanie Howells

April 22, 2011

Abigail, Bonnie, & the Politzer Family,

I was shocked and deeply saddened to hear about Alfred. I cannot begin to express how sorry I am. Working with Alfred was a joy. We, at the Office of State Administrative Hearings, thought the world of him.

Shalanda Green

April 22, 2011

Abigail and my precious Bonnie

You are in my prayers during this most diffuclt time, know that you have your very own guardian angel that will live in your hearts forever!

Much Love,

Shalanda Green
The Childern Center @ All Saints

Kim Kierbow

April 22, 2011

Dear Abigail, little Bonnie and family: I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved husband, Alfred. I worked with him at HHS, Office of General Counsel. He always had a smile on his face and would light up whenever I would ask about you and the baby. My thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this very difficult time.

Rochelle Sanchirico

April 22, 2011

Dear Abigail, Bonnie and family,
We were so sad to hear of Alfred's passing. He was an amazing man--I know how much joy he brought into your lives and those of all of his friends and family. We will be thinking of you during this very difficult time.

Michelle Gilliam

April 22, 2011

Please accept my deepest sympathies. I worked with Alfred at the DHHS Office of the General Counsel. He was an *absolutely delightful* co-worker. He told the best stories! After he moved to the EPA, he remained a joyful building-mate. I will miss him, and will keep him and your family in my thoughts and prayers. Humbly,

Kim Jones

April 22, 2011

Dear Politzer Family,
I will pray for God's grace to comfort and support you at this sad time. I will miss Alfred's smile in our office, warm greetings and our shared talks about Tulane. Kim A. Jones, EPA Office of the Regional Counsel

Charmaine Hooke-Powell

April 22, 2011

To the Politzer family:
The Office of State Admnistrative Hearings (OSAH) office was quite somber yesterday when we got the news about Alfred. It is hard to comprehend when someone so young is taken from us. I remember Alfred as an Officer and a Gentle(big)man who was full of life. We know not the reason but please know that your family is in my prayers.

Jennifer Snow

April 22, 2011

Dear Abigail, Bonnie & Family,

I was so deeply saddened to hear of this great loss. Alfred was a wonderful person, and a truly "nice guy." He was a great coworker with a very easy way about him. We are praying for you and your family and are sending you our love.

Warmly,
Jennifer & Rahim Snow

Georgina Fuller

April 22, 2011

Abigail, Bonnie & Family,

My prayers go out to you and all of your family. There are truly no words to describe how much Alfred will be missed. Not only was he a Sailor friend, he was a great co-worker. I will miss talking to him and seeing that wonderful smile that was truly contagious. May you look to the hills from where your help comes from and find comfort that only God can give. My prayers will always be with you, Always.


Georgina Fuller

April 22, 2011

Abigail,
You have my deepest sympathy, hoping the wonderful memories of Alfred will comfort you.
Ms. Deborah
Bright Horizons

Josie Everly

April 21, 2011

Abigail, Bonnie, Don, and Claudia,

Words cannot express our deep sympathy for your loss. You are all in our hearts and in our prayers.

Joe and Josie Everly

Rosalyn Hughes

April 21, 2011

Dear Abigail and Bonnie, I met you at your wedding but I knew your precious Alfred since he was born. I baby sat for him and watched him develop into a beautiful man. My family and I are heart sick about his untimely passing. Just know that he was welcomed with open arms when he left us to go to heaven. Heaven just received another Angel!!!!!!!!! Abigail, I too, lost my husband at a very young age so if you ever need to talk, please do not hesitate to call me. May God hold you and your family in the palm of his hands. With Love, Roz Hughes and family..........

Kevin McGill

April 21, 2011

Abigail, Bonnie & Family,

My thoughts and prayers are with you. Alfred will be missed by those who were lucky enough to have him as a friend.

Erica Matos

April 21, 2011

Abigail, Bonnie and family: William and I were stunned and crushed when we heard of the the loss of Alfred. We are so very sorry for your loss. It was a joy to work with Alfred in the HHS Office of General Counsel and I truly considered him a treasured colleaugue. I remember when he was hired and first arrived in the office and immediately knew that he was an excellent addition to the staff. We had the pleasure of meeting you and little Bonnie over supper at Tacqueria del Sol and it was a true pleasure to spend some time with another young family. Please know that we are praying for you at this time and that Alfred will truly be missed. May God be with you and bring you peace and comfort in the days to come.

William, Erica and Jennie Matos

Stephanie M. Davis

April 21, 2011

Dear Abigail & Family:

My heart goes out to you. And, I will be continuously lifting you up in prayer. Alfred worked with me on some legal cases while with the Office of the General Counsel. We loved his smile, sense of humor and easy going nature. He will truly be missed.

Sincerely,
Stephanie M. Davis
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

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