Albert Hudziak

In the year 1915, World War I was raging in Europe. Although these United States had not entered the struggle, the general population as well as the United States Government was keeping a very close eye on the day to day tense happenings across the Atlantic. That same year saw the birth of Frank Sinatra. Although insignificant at the time, in later years, Frank’s voice would charm millions around the world with his style, mellow voice and an aura that has never been duplicated. On April 1 of that same year another birth happened that brought extreme joy to a young couple, Albert and Sophie Hudziak, in Colorado Springs, CO. It was the birth of their youngest son, Albert.

Tired of the hard and dangerous work in the mines, Al’s father moved the family to Michigan where he received free land, to farm, from the government when Al was just eight years old. During the great depression, Al’s family raised chickens on the land to eke out a living. Later, his dad opened a Gulf Service Station just a spit throw from where Al was attending school. After School Al would help his dad around the station in the outdoor oil change bay and he would pump gas from the old gravity feed gas pumps that are now considered valuable collectors items. At this same time, Al also worked in a green house in nearby Muskegon.

When he wasn’t working during high school, Al was spending his time playing basketball. His love of the game eventually brought him recognition as a basketball standout on the Shelby High School team. In 1933 he graduated from high school and like his father, he moved away to find a better, more prosperous life. His journey brought him to Kalamazoo where he entered into a partnership and bought the M&H Market at the corner of Crosstown Parkway and Mill Street. While Al had a keen eye for tending to his business he also noticed out of those same eyes, a beautiful young lady who worked across the street from his market. Her name was Ann Hnilo and she knocked him off his feet. The young couple dated for a year and a half and then married on December 27, 1937.

Al worked hard at the market and was able to buy some property on Scott Lake near Bangor. Al literally built a house himself and even used some of the cherry trees on the property to make the paneling for the home. After he completed the house, he later bought the property across the street and planted a huge vegetable garden.

As hard as Al worked during the week, he always saved the weekends to be with and enjoy his family. Al was able to perfect his joy of fishing. During the winter when the cold winds would whip across the lake, Al would sit patiently ice fishing. While waiting for the blue gills to bite, Ann would bring him a cup of hot tea to warm his insides. Even when the fish weren’t biting, Al always seemed to catch his limit. His cocker spaniel would venture on to the ice with Al and go around to the other fisherman, steal their fish one at a time, and bring them back to Al.

As committed as Al was to his family and his business, he always made sure that he gave of himself to his community and his church. He was active in the Eagles and Moose Lodge, the Jaycees, and the Knights of Columbus as well as a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church where he ushered for over 20 years. He just couldn’t say no to joining any worthwhile organization for it was at these functions that he got to know people and those around him were able to receive the gift of his warm personality and wonderful sense of humor.

He also loved to watch sporting events and was an avid Detroit Lions fan. Back in the 1950’s Al would totally engross himself in boxing matches to the point of becoming quite animated. He would do his own version of shadow boxing as he thought his favorite fighter should be duking it out in the ring.

A true man’s man, Al will be remembered as a loving faithful family man with a heart as good as gold.

Al died Thursday, September 11, 2003 in Rose Arbor Hospice. He was preceded in death by his brother and two sisters. Members of his family include his wife Ann, two children; Albert J Hudziak of Kalamazoo and Mary Ann Lovett also of Kalamazoo, two grandchildren; Barbara Kopfensteiner of Grand Rapids and her husband Robert and Thomas Lovett and his wife Tammy of Grand Rapids, four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Friends may spend time with the family Sunday from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 PM at the Betzler Funeral Homes Stadium Drive West of US 131 where the Rosary will be recited that evening at 7 PM. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday at 11 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic, Fr. Tom Seidel, Celebrant. Following the mass, food and fellowship will be shared in the church hall. Private interment will take place at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. To read Al's life story, share a memory, send flowers, or make a memorial contribution to the Rose Arbor Hospice, please visit his personal web page at www.lifestorynet.com