Alvin “Al” Bodzioch of New Bedford and Centerville, succumbed peacefully to illness on August 17, 2015 following a courageous fight, exemplary of the man he was. He celebrated his 88th birthday on August 13th. Born in New Bedford to the late John and Anna (Szczur) Bodzioch, he was predeceased by his wife of 59 years, Helena, on August 5th.
Al attended Alliance College, then served in the United States Army during World War II and the United States Navy during the Korean conflict. After his honorable discharge from the Armed Services, he graduated from the American Institute of Laundering and National Institute of Drycleaning and joined his father in the family’s home laundry business. Al worked tirelessly to build this business into one of the most successful and respected independent uniform rental companies today known as Clean Uniforms and More! headquartered in New Bedford, MA.
Al lived his life as best described in the lyrics of “My Way.” His passions in life were family, Poland, and his “little piece of heaven” in Centerville. Al had a deep commitment to ensuring his children prospered and grew. He enriched their lives with his sense of fun, quick wit, and keen intellect. Al and Helena traveled extensively throughout the world, but his deep devotion was to Poland. He was extremely proud of his ancestry, visiting Poland annually. Al enriched the lives of many in his support of several Polish institutions of learning, including the Laski Institute for the Blind, The Wielka Wies School, with special attention to the school’s computer needs, and The Starachowice School for children with special needs. He also held dear to his heart the Sisters of Mercy at the Saint Faustina Convent. Stateside, Al was a member of the Friends of Poland.
Al was a lifelong fan of the New England Patriots, attending every home game until his recent health challenged his regular attendance. He was also an avid reader of books and numerous daily newspapers, especially the weekly Market Basket flyer.
Al’s family extends their heartfelt thanks to Dr. Matthew Messina and his wonderful staff for their many years of patience, kindness and attention to Al’s needs.
Al is survived by daughter Gail Bodzioch Kelleher and her husband Dennis of Rocky Hill, CT; son Mark Bodzioch of New Bedford; daughter Ann Bodzioch Bojack and her fiance Michael Robinson of Fairhaven; cherished grandchildren Alexa and John Bocciarelli of Rocky Hill, CT; sister Eileen (Bodzioch) Desroches; brother-in-law John S. Wolkowicz and his wife Hertha; and six loving nieces and nephews.
Al was a communicant of The Parish Family of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church. A Mass of Christian Burial and private interment were shared by his immediate family under the direction of the Saunders–Dwyer Home for Funerals.
To honor Al, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Friends of Poland, Inc. c/o Edward Piszcz, 127 Sheraton Avenue, Somerset, MA 02725, The Parish Family of Our Lady of Perpetual Help c/o Father Conrad Salach, O.F.M. Conv., Pastor, 235 North Front Street, New Bedford, MA 02746, or to a charity of your choice. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.