Albert Gilbert Gorgei

Albert (Al) Gilbert Gorgei entered eternal peace on Tuesday, December 15th 2020 at home surrounded by loved ones, ten days following his 94th birthday. Albert was born on Dec. 5th 1926 in Gary, IN. to Esther & Alex Gorgei whom immigrated to the United States from Hungary. Albert was one of five siblings, all of whom preceded him in death along with his parents, and his spouse of fifty-six years Catherine Gorgei.
Albert began working at the age of fourteen and held numerous jobs during his teen years, ranging from usher at the Roosevelt Theater in downtown Gary, to helping neighboring farmers and as assistant at the local butchers shop. As soon as Albert turned 17, he left his senior year in high school to join the Army during WWII which required a release from his Mother since he was not yet eighteen. Albert was awarded a WWII Victory Medal and was a qualified parachutist. He enlisted in the National Guard for two years following WWII. During this time Albert moved with his family to Fontana, CA. Where he began working at Kaiser Steel and met many of his lifelong friends, as well at the love of his life Catherine (Katy) Stekovich. Al & Katy were married on Nov. 23 1950 at which time Albert was serving in the Korean War as a Master Sergeant E7. Albert was awarded an Army Occupation Medal (Japan), Korean Service Medal with a Bronze Service Star and the UN Service Medal with a Combat Infantry Badge. Albert was a tough sergeant and an avid boxer. He recounted a few stories of payback by his guys (all in good fun). Al re-joined the National Guard for one year following the Korean War and during this time decided it would be great fun to drive an Army Tank down Sierra Ave. in Fontana. One of the many shenanigans he had fond memories of. Al continued a combined 40 plus year career at Kaiser Steel and California Steel, eventually retiring from California Steel. Al continued working into his 80s painting houses, mowing lawns & helping others.
Albert truly enjoyed his work, golfing (especially golf tournaments in Vegas), reading, playing the harmonica, polka dancing and card games. Barbeques & Hungarian bacon frys with family & friends were his favorite times and he grew an amazing yearly garden, in which he always shared his bounty. Most of all, Al loved his family and friends deeply. Al made friends wherever he went & often considered his friends as family. Whether you were privy to one of his endearing terms, a forceful slap on the back or a toast to Nostrovia, you were considered a part of his circle & well loved.
Albert is survived by his daughter Donna L. Howard, His son Michael A. Gorgei, his daughter Cynthia C. Gorgei-Wolff and son-in-law Eric Wolff, granddaughter Janis C. Coleman & husband Robert Coleman, great grandsons Robbie & Liam Coleman, Niece Susan Schmitt, granddaughter Kelsey Wolff & great granddaughter Riley Acuna, grandson Bryan Wolff, several nieces, nephews and many many friends. Services will be held in the near future at Riverside National Cemetery.

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