Alfred Svevar

Alfred Svevar, of River Vale, New Jersey, passed away on July 28, 2018, after 88 years of a full life done his way. In 1957, he intrepidly came to the United States from Finland with his wife and daughter but without money or any English. With the will power of what is his Taurus sign, the bull, he built a new life, expanded his family and circle of friends, and lived the American Dream. Raising five children in a small Queens basement apartment for which he was the building superintendent, while also working a full-time job as a skilled union carpenter in New York City for many years, he saved his money for his plans to one day build his own home. Taking that on as yet another part time project, Alfred and his family settled in the house that he built in 1977; Alfred continued to commute from River Vale to his New York job until his retirement in 1995. If you knew Alfred, you know he was always working hard, but in mourning our loss, he will be remembered for his humor, his handsome smile and his participation in countless family vacations, events, and visits. His friends and acquaintances mourn the loss of his unfailing generosity with his time and help in any task. He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 64 years, Ragne, his son Alan and his partner Cecilia, his daughter Christine and son-in-law Scott, his son John and daughter-in-law Tina, his daughter Linda and son-in-law Eric and as well as ten grandchildren, Carly, Mark, Lynn, Cole, Marley, Jack, Ava, Sage, Owen and Lana. He is also mourned by extended family and friends in Finland, including his brother Arne, in-laws and many cousins, nieces and nephews. Alfred was preceded in death by his daughter Clary, his parents and brothers and sisters Arvid, Axel, Anni, Aili, and Alice. The family will receive guests at Becker Funeral Home, 219 Kinderkamack Rd, Westwood, NJ on Wednesday, August 1st, 7-9PM with private cremation to follow.