Alfred F. "Al" DeRose

Age 90, of the West End, on Monday, April 24, 2023. Beloved son of the late Vincenzo & Rose (Formosa) DeRose. Loving brother of and preceded in death by Marie (Anthony) Vitale, Carl (Claire) DeRose, John (Joan) DeRose, and his twin brother, Ernie DeRose, and survived by sister-in-law, Connie DeRose. Cherished uncle of Tina (Frank) Reczek, Anita (Sean) Myers, Tom Vitale, Fred (Judi) Vitale, Rosemarie (Ricky) Rinaudo, Joann (Ed) Miller, Diane (Erick) Hedges, and the late Vince (Rose) DeRose. Also survived by many great nieces, great nephews, cousins, and friends.

Al was born, raised, and spent most of his adult life in the neighborhood he loved, the West End, with the people he loved. Al had an appreciation of art and a passion for design. Al was a graduate of Langley High School and the Art Institute of Pittsburgh (Interior Design).

Early in his career, Al managed Norma’s Furniture Store then became part owner of PADCO wallpaper and paint stores that had locations in Ambridge, Heidelberg and eventually landing back in the West End at McGann’s Corner where he also opened an art gallery, Gallery DeRosa. His gift for interior design enhanced many homes in the Pittsburgh area. Al was happiest when surrounded by his family and friends. He had a passion for gourmet cooking and entertaining. His door was always open and once you entered, you felt at home. He hosted many gatherings for holidays, picnics, Steeler/Superbowl parties, and his favorite annual event, the “Cousin’s holiday party”. Al was an avid sports fan and enjoyed watching all Pittsburgh hometown teams regardless of them having a winning or losing season. He also had model trains that he built platforms for in his basement that everyone came to see. Al volunteered as an usher for St. James and Guardian Angels Parish for many years. He also was an active volunteer for the St. Vincent de Paul Society, a supporter of the Light of Life Rescue Mission and was a long-time member of the Green Tree American Legion Post 823.

He proudly Served in the US Army during the Korean War, at Ft. Knox with his twin brother. Al was truly a special person who cared more about others than himself. He was a tender-hearted and genuine person who will be deeply missed. Al’s family would like to thank the staff at Gallagher Hospice, VA Hospice - H J Heinz Campus and Dr. Philbin and staff for the excellent care provided.

Friends and family received 10-11:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 29th at BRUSCO-NAPIER FUNERAL SERVICE, LTD., 2201 Bensonia Ave., Pgh, PA 15216. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated following visitation at 12 p.m. in St. Raphael the Archangel Parish—Ss. Simon and Jude Church, 1607 Greentree Rd., Pgh, PA 15220. Entombment to follow in Mt. Lebanon Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made Light of Life Rescue Mission, www.lightoflife.org or St. Vincent de Paul Society, www.svdppitt.org.

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