Cortopassi, Alfred L. Fortified with the sacraments of Holy Mother the Church, and surrounded by family, Al passed away peacefully at the age of 95 on January 7, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Rita (nee Sondhaus), his son Gregory, his parents Vasco and Rose and his brother Joseph.  Survived by sons Thomas (Debbie) and Joseph (Sharon) Cortopassi, his grandchildren Marie (Angelo) Pata, Joseph (Elizabeth) Cortopassi, and Andrew (Jennifer) Cortopassi, great-grandchildren, nephews, cousins and friends.

Al was so proud of his Italian heritage.  He was a first-generation Italian American, born in St. Louis to Vasco and Rose, who emigrated from Lucca, Italy.

Al and Rita were true companions for 73 years of marriage. They met at St. Gregory's Parish in St. Ann and began dating in high school. After his graduation from McBride High School, Al enlisted in the US Air Force during the Korean War. He was stationed at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery and was a member of the Honor Guard for fallen US service members.

After leaving the service, Al began his pursuit of a business degree from St. Louis University, while starting his career in the warehouse with Edison Brother's Stores. He retired as a Vice President, Director of Advertising after a 36 year career.

After retiring from Edison Brothers Stores, Al's love for the city of St. Louis led him to a seven year career with Downtown St. Louis, Inc. as Director of Marketing.  He greatly enjoyed working with the various downtown businesses and local leaders promoting St. Louis, especially organizing and leading the Rams and St. Louis Cardinals pep rallies on Kiener Plaza.

Al and Rita raised their three boys in Bridgeton, MO, as members of the St. Lawrence the Martyr Parish.  He was very much involved with the Parish community as well as many Bridgeton civic activities, which included leading the Bridgeton Police commission board for eight years.

Private Interment was held at Calvary Cemetery with full military honors on January 15, 2026.  A Memorial Mass and celebration of Al's life will be held at Christ Prince of Peace Church, 415 Weidman Road, on Saturday, March 21st with 9:00 a.m. visitation until time of 10:00 a.m. Mass.  A reception at the church will immediately follow.  In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Backstoppers of St. Louis, P.O. Box 795168, St. Louis, MO  63179-0700, or www.backstoppers.org.