World War II Veteran and Retired Newark Police Officer Philip Alfano, Passes Away at 98: Celebrating A Life Well Lived.

By: George Beck Jr. Ph.D.

Philip Alfano Jr. grew up in North Newark, born in Jersey City on September 19, 1924, to the late Philip and Blanche (Conversano) Alfano. He lived a long life of good health, devoted his life to service and inspired many of his children and grandchildren to seek vocations in public service. The Alfanos are legendary in Newark, mainly in the Fire Department, where generations of Alfanos continue to protect and serve the city proudly.

During World War II, Alfano was a gunner on four U.S. Navy ships protecting fuel and supplies into Guam and Saipan — where the B-29s would launch and bomb Tokyo. The Navy took him all over the world and through hostile areas of the South Pacific, supporting the war effort as a 17-year-old kid from New Jersey.

Police Officer Phillip Alfano Jr. inspecting a driver at a roadblock stop in 1965

While at a port in Portland, Oregon, in 1943, Alfano met his future bride of 74 years, Beryl. After the war, he’d return to Portland, and the happy couple would resettle in Newark, NJ, having seven children who grew into dozens of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

After the war, Alfano worked in a jewelry factory, got laid off, and at that time had five children and needed steady employment. A friend on the Newark police force suggested he’d make a good officer and urged him to take the upcoming police exam.

Alfano began his career in law enforcement in 1958 and spent the next decade working the radio car, making many arrests and risking his life in a city where eventually, the infamous riots would break out in 1967.

By 1982, Alfano retired and traveled frequently. He divided his time half the year at Culver Lake in Branchville, NJ, and Boynton Beach, FL. Alfano was active until his last day on Oct. 22, 2022. He was a cherished friend of Blue Magazine and regularly attended events. His life was exemplary and inspiring.