Alphonsus Vytautus Pocius

He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, scientist, veteran, mentor, and craftsman whose life was defined by curiosity, perseverance, service, and a deep commitment to family.

Al was born on May 20, 1948, in Emsdetten, Germany, and was raised by his parents, Alexandras Pocius and Zofija Pocius. Shortly after his birth, his family immigrated to the United States and settled on the South Side of Chicago. It was there that Al was raised and completed his early education, developing the work ethic and intellectual curiosity that would guide him throughout his life. He became a naturalized citizen of the United States while in high school, a milestone he took great pride in and one that shaped his lifelong appreciation for opportunity and responsibility.

Al attended Knox College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1970 and deepened his interest in science. He met his future wife, Janice, at Knox College in 1968, and they were married in 1970. Following their marriage, Al and Jan moved to Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, where Al continued his education, earning a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Illinois in 1974.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Al enlisted in the United States Army Reserve during the Vietnam War era and served honorably for 10 years. His military service reflected a quiet sense of duty and commitment that carried through every stage of his life.

Following the completion of his Ph.D., Al and Jan moved to Minnesota, where Al began a long and distinguished career at 3M. They initially settled in North St. Paul, and after several years, moved to Maplewood, Minnesota, where they would ultimately lay down roots and raise their family.

Al worked at 3M from 1974 to 2009, specializing in adhesion and adhesive technologies. Over the course of his career, he was the inventor or co-inventor on more than 30 patents, became a Corporate Scientist, and earned widespread respect for his technical rigor, curiosity, and mentorship of colleagues. He was also the author of Adhesion and Adhesives Technology: An Introduction, a foundational text that continues to support learning and innovation in the field.

Outside of his professional life, Al enjoyed building and working with his hands, taking pride in craftsmanship and problem-solving beyond the laboratory. He also appreciated the simple pleasure of an occasional beer and valued time spent with family.

Above all else, Al was a deeply involved and supportive father. He was the proud father of Dr. Nick Pocius and Amanda Xu (Pocius) and a constant presence in their lives, attending Nick’s basketball games and Amanda’s soccer games and offering steady encouragement along the way. In later years, he took great joy in being a grandfather and cherished time with his grandchildren.

Al is survived by his wife, Janice Pocius; son, Dr. Nick (Eliza) Pocius; daughter, Amanda (Jack) Xu; and grandchildren Vinnie, Quincy, Lyla, and Maryn.

In accordance with Al’s wishes, no formal funeral or memorial service will be held.

Dr. Alphonsus Pocius will be remembered as a good man who lived a full and meaningful life, one rooted in service, family, learning, integrity, and quiet impact.