Alfred J. Mozdzen age 84, of Countryside passed away at home on March 4^th, 2015 after a short struggle with lung cancer. A U.S. Army Veteran during the Korean War Era.  Beloved husband of Marian J. (nee Bowe); devoted father of Thomas J. (Barbara), Karen E. and Steven G. (Marguerite) Mozdzen; cherished grandfather of Michelle (Wolfgang), Laura, Matthew, Daniel, Rachel Mozdzen, Ryan Bast, and Rachel Bast.

Al served in the Army Artillery Parachute division during the Korean War. He was a star baseball pitcher in high school, having pitched two no-hitters and played at Wrigley Field in the City vs. Suburbs All-star game. He played on the U of Illinois baseball team in college. Al had a tryout with the New York Yankees in 1949, but a shoulder injury put an end to his baseball career ambitions. He met the woman of his dreams, Marian, on a blind date in 1954.

He had a long career in the publishing industry working in a variety of pre-press production areas, most notably in color quality control. He spent most of his later career at World Book Encyclopedia and R.R. Donnelley and Sons. In lieu of flowers, he would have preferred donations to any charity that helps people.

He was a kind and patient person, always optimistic, and a lifelong Cubs fan. Loved a simple life without the complications of technology. Always very supportive and always attended his children’s and grandchildren’s activities whether they were baseball games, swim meets, plays, band gigs, or graduations. He will be remembered kindly.

Visitation Friday from 3 to 9pm at Hallowell & James Funeral Home 1025 W. 55^th St., Countryside. Prayers Saturday, March 7, 9:30am from the chapel to St. Cletus Church in LaGrange for a Mass of Christian Burial at 10am. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery. Info: (708) 352-6500.