Alfred Frederick Gerriets, 84

Alfred Frederick Gerriets was born on June 7, 1930, and died on May 18, 2015. He grew up in Astoria, Queens and graduated from Newtown High School in 1948. He enjoyed roller skating and was a member of the Astoria Red Wings Roller Hockey team. Al married his high school sweetheart, Rosemarie Paladino, in 1953, and they had two children, Alfred II and Eve. After high school, Al joined the Army and was part of the National Guard during the Korean War. He received a certificate in draftsmanship and started in the construction business in his 20s. Early in his career, he was part of the carpenters’ union. He became an expert in renovations, since he appreciated the bones of an old building. He later became involved in new construction. The family moved to Great Neck in 1967. Both children graduated from Great Neck North High School. Al worked with local architects, among them Ron Goodman and Edna Guilor. Al’s knowledge of construction and keen eye for good architecture adorn the peninsula in numerous locations. Al and Rose lived in many of the different homes he constructed in Great Neck and appreciated all it had to offer. Al loved nature and the outdoors. He is survived by his wife, children and two grandchildren.