Alfred Martin Votypka

Born on January 22,1929 in Woodbury, he was predeceased by his wife of 65 years Barbara Anne Votypka. A dedicated father, Al is survived by his children; Barbara Valdes, Jeffrey Votypka and Susanne Bernt. He was “Poppa” to his five grandchildren; Alexandra and Ryan Votypka and Christopher, Daniel and Juliana Bernt.

Throughout their long and happy marriage Barbara and Al traveled often. They enjoyed trips to Spain, Portugal, the Canary Islands and Tahiti, but their favorite destination was the US Virgin Islands.

Al was the third generation of his family to live in Woodbury. A graduate of Hicksville High School, he continued his education at Long Island University and later at Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, Ohio where he earned his dentistry degree. He served as a Naval Officer aboard the USS Yellowstone from 1956-58. Afterwards, he opened his dental office in Hicksville, practicing until his retirement in 2006.

Al was an avid gardener. As a member of the Rhododendron Society, he exhibited several of his favorite varieties at local garden shows. He continued gardening well into his 90’s and all three of his children and several of his grandchildren are avid gardeners to this day. Al especially loved to golf. He enjoyed his time on the course with his buddies even if it meant getting up at 5am to get a tee time.

Al had a curious mind and aimed to find new and creative solutions to everyday problems. There was nothing he couldn’t fix or figure out. Among his inventions was a multi-use golf tool to repair divots, hold a ball marker and open a frosty beverage. He was a man with particular tastes who always strove for excellence. He worked hard, weathered the ups and downs of life and instilled in his loved ones the value of independence, perseverance, and the importance of family. He will be missed.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 6, 2025 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm, at Beney Funeral Home, 79 Berry Hill Road, Syosset, NY 11791. Navy Funeral Honors will be at 3:00pm, followed by wake prayers at 3:30pm.