ALFRED JOSEPH (AL) CEGIELSKI, 73, passed away on September 27, 2018, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on March 18, 1945, in Houston, Texas. Al was preceded in death by his parents Joseph Cegielski and Monica Modrzejewski Cegielski and his brother Eugene Everest Cegielski. He is survived by his wife, Lanelle Cegielski, daughter Cara Sowers and son-in-law Scott Sowers, son Craig Cegielski and daughter-in-law Brandi Wyatt Cegielski; granddaughter Heather Sowers Coats and grandson-in-law Marcus Coats, grandson Tyler Sowers and granddaughter-in-law Sarah Vacek Sowers, grandsons Cody Joe Cegielski, Colson Cegielski and Cooper Cegielski, great-grandchildren Dean Sowers, Lucy Sowers and Hadlie Coats; as well as aunts, uncle, nieces, nephews and many cousins and friends.
More than anything, Al enjoyed spending time with his family. He hosted many gatherings including back yard cook-outs, putting contests, washer tournaments and just relaxing and visiting on the deck. He watched every dance recital when Cara and Heather were performing. He attended every little league, middle school, high school and college baseball game, as well as basketball, volleyball, softball, football games, even band concerts, when the kids and grandkids were playing.
One of his greatest joys was baseball, and he has been an avid Houston Astros fan since the franchise began with the Houston Colt ‘45s. He began pitching when he was very young and continued through St. Thomas High School and into college until an injury prevented him from playing. He dearly loved coaching little league baseball through his Amateur baseball team, the Buffs.
He served in the U.S. Army in 1966-1967 and spent most of that time in Viet Nam, where he met many brave soldiers. They remained friends and communicated with one another until the time of his death.
Al stayed in touch with his friends from the St. Thomas High School Class of 1963. They shared many thoughts and stories and enjoyed lunch gatherings every month.
Most important to Al was his faith. He loves God and loved being a part of the Catholic Church.
May he rest in peace.
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