Alfred 'Al' J. DePalma Longtime operating engineer at Novartis, USMC veteran Alfred "Al" J. DePalma, 76, of Whiting, N.J., died Saturday, Nov. 25, 2017, at home. Born in Clifton, N.J., he lived most of his life in Bloomingdale, N.J., before moving to Whiting 10 years ago. Al devoted his recent years helping elderly friends and volunteering his time with the Ridgeway Fire Company and the Salvation Army. Al was a skilled electrician and carpenter, and enjoyed helping friends and family with their home improvements. He loved his work as an operating engineer and was a dedicated employee for 30 years at Novartis Corporation, East Hanover, N.J., before retiring in 2007. Al's hobbies included fishing, woodworking, and gun sports, and he was a member of the National Rifle Association. He loved his country and was proud to have served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Al will always be remembered for his generosity, humor, and kindness. He is survived by a son, John DePalma of Bloomingdale; a daughter, Sherry McMahon of Oak Ridge, N.J.; a sister, Ida Carey of West Milford, N.J., and his former wife, Linda DePalma of Whiting. Memorial services will be held at a later date. Memorial donations in memory of Al can be sent to Salvation Army, 1738 NJ-37, Toms River, N.J. 08753. To send online condolences, please visit our website at oliveriefuneralhome.com.