Born in the Bronx, New York, on September 29, 1960, Alfred Artesona passed away on May 11, 2022, due to 9/11-related illnesses. One of his favorite poems, “The Dash” by Linda Ellis, reminds us that what matters most is not the dates themselves, but the life lived in between, and Alfred lived his dash to the fullest.

Al grew up in the Bronx with his parents and two brothers. He was athletic, outgoing, and especially passionate about swimming. He swam competitively at Columbus High School and later at City College, forming friendships that lasted a lifetime. Whether lifeguarding at Orchard Beach or pursuing careers in public service, many of these friendships endured, some following him into the NYPD and eventually the FDNY.

A dedicated runner, Al completed eight New York City Marathons and several triathlons. He also loved golfing and fishing, often traveling to Florida for fishing trips with his brothers and close friends.

Alfred had a deep love for travel, a passion he passed on to his two daughters. Together, they visited family in Puerto Rico, explored the East Coast, and later in life, he traveled to attend live music and sporting events. His favorites included CrossFit competitions, U2, Santana, and anything from the New Wave era.

Service to others was a guiding force in his life. As a member of the American Red Cross, he traveled to California to assist after the 1994 Northridge earthquake. He also volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters, often including his “Little Brother” and the sibling group in outings. Following Hurricane Maria in 2017, Al spent a month in Puerto Rico helping his mother and extended family recover—yet another reflection of his unwavering dedication to those he loved.

Above all, Alfred was known for his kindness. Whether helping family with a project, assisting a friend with a cross-country move, or simply being present, he lived by a phrase he learned from his own father, “It’s nice to be nice.”