Albert "Speedy" Sfida

Albert "Speedy" Sfida

1944 - 2023

Albert was born on 11/28/44 to Emma (nee Balestra) and Adam Sfida in the Overbrook section of Philadelphia, PA. He lit up every time he spoke of his classmates and days at St Thomas (Forever) More. Albert graduated in 1962, and the men who knew him during those years still rave about the talented and accomplished dual-sport All Catholic athlete. After high school, he was awarded the Best Baseball Player in Philadelphia and was a multiple year Sandlot and Johnstown All Star. Later he was being pursued for recruitment in the minors but opted out to start a family. 

He co-owned and operated several successful bar/restaurants, alongside his brother and best friend, Ed (“Broad Street Eddie”).

Albert was a fiercely proud father and exceptionally loving grandfather. He is survived by daughters Rochelle and Melissa (Paul Allen), four grandchildren (Jake Pestrak, Ava Allen, Adriana Pestrak, and Addison Allen), loving long-time companion Patricia DiBonaventura, brothers , Eddie (Lorraine) and Steven (Susan), his nephews Eddie (Christy), Michael (Dawn), Nicholas (Lorna) and his niece, Lily.

Albert enjoyed trips to the beach for a White House cheesesteak or dinner at Joe Italiano's Maplewood Inn. He also loved to dance.  You could often find him owning the dance floor, impeccably dressed.

More recently he derived the most joy by spending time with his grandchildren. He was smitten when he finally had a boy in his brood and taught his grandson how to play every sport. He sat proudly in the stands or sidelines trying to contain his emotion. He quickly remembered the athletes his girls were when his granddaughters were born and began to play. He also enjoyed attending shows performed by his talented grandchildren. He loved being a Pop Pop and could be heard bragging about how they too had the Sfida athletic genes for which he was proudest. 

Family will receive friends beginning at 9 AM at St Pius X Church on Tuesday, April 4, followed by a Mass at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the St. Thomas More Alumni Association, PO Box 294, Drexel Hill, PA 19026.

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