Albert ‘Al’ Joseph Melisko, 90, of Chester, Maryland, formerly of Gouverneur, New York, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 2, 2019, at home, under the care of his family and Hospice.
Al was born on January 11, 1929, in Deferiet, NY where he attended school and lived in Gouverneur and Wanakena most of his life.
Al was a Korean War Veteran with the U.S. Army and served 13 months proudly in the 179th Infantry Regiment, Company K where he earned the rank of Sergeant and was honorably discharged in 1952. Al was awarded the Army of Occupation Medal (Japan), Korean Service Medal w/1 Bronze Service Star, Combat Infantry Badge, and UN Service Medal.
Al worked in the mines for 36 years at Balmat, retiring from Zinc Corporation of America in 1992.
Al enjoyed building home projects, bowling, and keeping his mind sharp. He spent time at the VFW and American Legion. Al was rarely seen without his Korean War Veteran ball cap. He was an avid collector of bi-centennial ‘drummer boy’ quarters and no advertising ink pen was safe if left unattended. Al was a connoisseur of cheap beer and a master of completing 1,000-piece puzzles.
Al was a lifetime member of the VFW Post 6338 and the America Legion Post 0065 in Gouverneur. He was greatly honored to participate in military honors at the annual Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies.
Al is predeceased by his wife Betty of 33 years, father Stephen Melisko, mother Helen Gurgus Melisko, sisters Helen and Agnes, and brothers Stephen, Jr., Robert, and Donald. He is survived by his brother Edward, five children, seven grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren.
A graveside service will be held at the East Riverside Cemetery in the Spring. Arrangements are with Green’s Funeral Home.