Albert A. Vieira

Albert A. Vieira, 89 of Newington passed away March 5, 2016 at home with loving family at his side. He was born in Rye, New York to the late John Vieira of the Cape Verde Island and Germar C. Lopes of New Britain.

Albert was employed by Fafnir Bearing now Ingersall Rand of Torrington. He retired in 1988 after 42 years of service.

Albert loved his family dearly, He leaves his loving wife of 67 years, Catherine Vieira (Smith). Three children Deborah C. Vieira of Newington, Bert Vieira of East Hampton and Dana Vieira of Newington, Dana's wife Shauni of Newington. Three grandchildren Amber Shumate Williams(husband Tyrus Williams) of Hartford, Shayna Stetford and Autumn Vieira of Newington. A host of nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

He was predeceased by his brothers John and Justine Vieira his sister Margaret Alves all of New Britain. He has one living brother Robert Lopes of Washington State.

In the autumn of 1946, Al began his industrial league career at the age of 20. He was just returning from World War 2. He and his brother came off the bench for the undefeated New Britain Machine "ENBEES". The New Britain Industrial League consisted of the following companies: Fafnir Bearing, American Hardware, Stanley Tool, Landers Frary & Clark, Pratt & Whitney and New Britain Machine. After going 15-0 in the New Britain League, the "ENBEES" beat industrial league teams from Waterbury, Naugatuck and Bridgeport in the State Tournament. In the Eastern States Tournament they beat teams from Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Jersey.

Al went to work for Fafnir, where he started at third base for their base for their hardball baseball team and forward for their basketball team.In the summer of 1947, Al played on the first of five consecutive New Britain Industrial League Baseball League Championships. In the fall of 1948, Al led the NB Industrial Basketball League in scoring with 263 points.Finally, the 1950-1951 basketball season saw Fafnir win the NB Industrial League Championship. This team went to the semi-finals in the State Tournament.

On November 16, 1951 the Fafnir bearing company held its 6th "Annual Sports Night" in which Al became the 5th person to win the Raymond R. Searles Athletic Award. This award was given to the outstanding baseball and basketball player of the year.

In the years to come, Al spent numerous hours helping younger players understand the philosophy and fundamental skills of baseball, basketball and football. He was an assistant coach for the Walicki League Cardinals and Indians. Al was also an assistant coach for the New Britain Midget Football Giants. Some of the Hall of Fame players that Al coached are: Darwin Shaw, Nate Vincent and Dana Vieira.

Al worked for Parks and Recreation at Jefferson School for many years. Al took up the sport of tennis later on and again spent time teaching those willing to learn the new sport.

A Big Thank you to the visiting nurses of Berlin and Hospice VITAS & Sonya for their tender loving care. A special Thanks to his doctor Robert Taddeo and Chris for their Devoted Care.

Calling hours will be on Wednesday, March 9, 2016 from 4 to 6:pm with a memorial service at 6:oo PM at the New Britain Memorial Sagarino Funeral Home 444 Farmington Ave. New Britain. Directions Exit 37 off I-84 take a right, 1 ½ miles on your right. Burial will be private. To share a memory with the family, please go to www.newbritainsagarino.com