1916 – 2003

BIDDEFORD – Albert J. Berticelli, 87, of Pearl Ave., Old Orchard Beach, and formerly of Lewiston, passed away Sunday, Nov. 16, at Southern Maine Medical Center.

He was born in Madison, on Aug. 21, 1916, a son of Joseph and Domenica Cotispoti Berticelli. Throughout his life he was actively involved in his community and enjoyed many hobbies, such as roller skating, golf and bowling. A World War II veteran he proudly fought for his country, serving in the Navy, flying on fighter planes in Europe in the same squadron as Joseph Kennedy.

When he returned from the war, he was a professional roller skater, performing at various rinks in the area. During the big band era, he was the featured Master of Ceremonies at the Casino nightclub on the Old Orchard Beach Pier. It was there that he would meet his beloved wife of 56 years, Laraine.

After he and his wife moved to Lewiston, he became involved in many organizations, clubs and charitable events. He was the President of the March of Dimes, Lewiston Chapter, where he organized many successful fund raising events. He was also a member of UCT, the Lewiston/Auburn Sports Hall of Fame, the Knights of Columbus and the Lewiston Elks.

His love of golf lead him to become an active member and President of the Poland Spring and Martindale Country Club and was later instrumental in the future development of the course. While his children attended Lewiston schools, he presided over the Pettengill and Farewell PTA’s.

He was employed by State Paper for over 40 years, until his retirement in 1987. An Avid sports fan, he closely followed the Notre Dame fighting Irish football and soccer teams, where his son, Michael Berticelli was the head men’s soccer coach until his untimely death in 2000.

He was extremely proud of his Italian heritage and was infamous for his delicious Italian meals; his family and friends were privileged to share. He will be remembered for his involvement in his community, his devotion to his family, and his incredible work ethic.

He is survived by one daughter, Nancy J. Rodrigue and son-in-law, Roch of Saco; one daughter-in-law, Cinda Berticelli of Virginia Beach, Va.; four grandchildren, Stacey Rodrigue Jordan, Michael Rodrigue, Nino Berticelli and Anthony Berticelli; two great-grandchildren, Taylor Jordan and Michael Jordan II; several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his loving wife, Laraine Levesseur Berticelli on Sept. 8; his beloved son, Michael A. Berticelli on Jan. 25, 2000; three brothers, Antonio Berticelli, John Berticelli and Michael Precopio; two sisters, Josephine Figoli and Barbara Precopio.