Albert Buchholz

Albert Buchholz, a decorated World War II veteran who grew up in Philadelphia, died May 11. He was 80, and lived in New Britain, Conn.

Bucholz was a machinist for Fasnir Ball Bearing Co. in New Britain. He retired in 1980 after 35 years.

He was born in Collingswood, N.J., and raised in the Kensington section of Philadelphia.

His brother, Walter, said he left Philadelphia because he believed he'd find a job more easily in Connecticut.

Bucholz attended Northeast High School, but quit in his senior year.

``He had two months to go, and left to go to work,'' said his brother.

He played soccer for the Lighthouse Boys Club in Philadelphia for many years.

Buchholz served in World War II and won three bronze stars for his service in an artillery unit in the South Pacific. He fought in the battles of Biak, Papua and New Guinea.

He loved to garden.

``The thing I remember most about him is that when he made a friend, he had a friend for life,'' said his brother.

``I don't remember meeting anyone yet who said something bad about him. His son said he never heard him say a curse word.''

Other survivors include his wife, Ernestine Caporale, and a son, Roger.

Services, with military honors, were held in New Britain. Burial was at St. Mary's Cemetery in New Britain.