Lieutenant Colonel, USA, Alfonse Robert Telese Jr. Ret. died unexpectedly of natural causes

Saturday April 22, 2023. Al was born on a military base in Panama on July 9, 1952, to Lieutenant Colonel Alfonse Telese Sr. and Mary Doris PressnelTelese. Growing up in a military family, Al moved around the world throughout his childhood and adolescence before attending Western Kentucky University and graduating with a bachelor's degree in art.

We lost a true hero who proudly wore the uniform of the United States Army and dedicated over 33 years of his life to serving his country. Al chose to follow in his father's footsteps by entering the army, going on to serve in Bosnia and two tours in Iraq. He was honored with too many medals and commendations throughout his military career to list. At the end of his second tour of Iraq he was awarded the Purple Heart for his injuries.

Al was more than a soldier. He founded Networking Warriors of America, promoting and leading outdoor fishing activities for wounded soldiers so they could lead rich and fulfilling lives after their years of service. This video of Al captures the important work he has done. This organization has now been closed.

Al loved nothing more than being on the water, surrounded by nature, and casting his line in search of the perfect catch. He was a true sportsman who helped lead his Denton Bass Club to a state championship. Al also had a love of baseball since he was a child giving a significant portion of his time umpiring baseball teams of all ages and enjoying the Frisco baseball community.

He was a founding member of Saint Francis Catholic Church in Frisco, Texas, placing the stakes in the land where the foundation would be, raising contributions for construction, and rising to the ranks of 4th degree Knight of Columbus.

Al and Patsy Gaberino Carey met in October of 2020 and planned to be married soon. They enjoyed traveling internationally together, snow skiing in Beaver Creek, CO, and spending time with dear friends and family at Lake Eufaula. Patsy and Al thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of life as a couple in the short time they were given together.

The true definition of Al was his unwavering commitment and love for Patsy. He was devoted to his friends and would give them the shirt off his back. The Army and his fellow veterans were always at the top of his mind. He was a man of honor, integrity, and courage. He lived his life to the fullest with a sense of purpose and meaning that inspired all who knew him.

Al's life will be celebrated on May 17, 2023, at 10:00 AM at St Paul's Catholic Church, 502 South 6th Street, Eufaula, Oklahoma.