Dr. Alessandro Joseph Savaglio, Sr., age 87, born December 16, 1933, Kenosha, Wisconsin, died peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, January 21, 2021.Dr. Al proudly graduated from UW Madison with a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1957 and Marquette University School of Dentistry with a Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree in 1961. While at Marquette, he was an altar server at Gesu Catholic Church. Al met his wife, Marie, at the Holy Rosary Summer Festival in 1956. On September 1, 1958, they were married at Holy Rosary Catholic Church and they recently celebrated their 62nd Wedding Anniversary.Dr. Al proudly served his country in the United States Navy at the Naval Station Great Lakes from 1961-63. As a devout Catholic, Dr. Al served many years as the President of the Holy Name Society at both Holy Rosary and Our Lady of Mount Carmel. He faithfully served as a lector at the 7 a.m. Sunday Mass. He was past chairman for the Holy Rosary Sports Night. Dr. Al served as past president of the Kenosha County Dental Society and a member of the Wisconsin Dental Association. He was the first male Parent Teacher Association President at Forest Park Elementary School. Dr. Al was honored by the Kenosha Italian Business and Professional Organization with the Italian American Professionals Award. He attended Marquette University Men’s Basketball Games for more than 45 years being recognized by the Marquette University Alumni Association on court as a “MU Fan of the Game.” His hobbies included attending family events, reading, cooking and baking. His passion for praying the rosary, novenas, attending masses and devotion to the Divine Mercy demonstrated a great love for God and inspired many to live a faithful life.Dr. Al is survived by his loving wife Marie (Ruffalo) Savaglio. A devoted dad to Joan (Dave) Cates, Dr. Al (Nora) Savaglio, Dr. Sue (Rob) Savaglio-Jarvis, Kathy (Greg) Fraid, Mike (Cathy) Savaglio, Anne (Mike) Troka, and Jennifer (Curt) Velvikis. A proud Papa to Christopher (Eliza) Evans, Andrew (Tracie) Evans, Katie Evans, Joseph (Mary) Evans, Andrea (Jason) Sauve, Sam Savaglio, Gienna Jarvis, Simone Fraid, Savannah (Tony) Buffolino, Rocky Fraid, Michael (Genny) Savaglio, Mikayla Savaglio, Alexandra Savaglio, Michael Troka, Matteo Troka, Marco Troka, and Maximo Troka. A blessed great-grandfather to Jude Evans, Lucy Evans, Alison Sauve and another great-grandchild (baby Buffolino) on the way. He is also survived by many caring and loving nieces/nephews, great nieces/nephews and cousins.He was preceded in death by his parents Alex Savaglio, Richetta (Conforti) Savaglio, three sisters Rosalie (Gabriel) Ruffolo, Yolanda (Arnold) Hennig, and Adriana Savaglio, and nephew Joseph (Linda) Ruffolo.Dr. Al was an amazing father to his children and loved being a “Papa” to his grandchildren. He will be deeply missed by his wife, family, friends and his patients. He was a caring dentist and servant leader in the Catholic Church and Kenosha Community. His patients were a very important part of his life and the outpouring of support touched him and his family deeply after his retirement due to cancer. Dr. Al’s smile was contagious and his greetings were warm and welcoming. He always had a sense of humor that brought cheer to everyone. He lived a prayerful and joyful life. Dr. Al will be remembered for his devotion to God, family, friends, and patients. The family would like to extend a special thank you to Dr. Shepler, Dr. Raikar and Dr. Ahmed for providing compassionate care.In lieu of flowers, a donation in memory of Dr. Alessandro Savaglio Sr. may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church or Marquette University Dental School.Regrettably, due to the pandemic, funeral services honoring Dr. Alessandro Joseph Savaglio, Sr. life will be held privately. To live stream mass, please copy and paste https://www.facebook.com/ProkoFuneralHome/live_videos/ into your browser on Friday, January 29th at noon. The Savaglio family invites everyone to share a favorite story in the online Memory Wall for the family to celebrate his life.Proko Funeral Home & Crematory5111-60th Street Kenosha, WI 53144Phone: (262) 654-3533Visit & Sign Dr. Al’s Online Memorial Book at:www.prokofuneralhome.com
Condolences
Geri Strifling
February 10, 2021
Dr. Al was my dentist for almost 60 years. I started with him when he first opened his practice on the north side and I stayed with him his whole career. He went from being a dentist, to a friend, to family. People were amazed when I would say I looked forward to going to the dentist. At visits he would say, Shhhh.. we can’t be laughing this much! It was always fun to see him and also Maire at the front desk. He was an amazing man, with a kind heart, full of life and always with a smile whether in or out of the office. You could talk about anything with Dr. Al, but he especially loved to talk about family and it was evident how much he loved you all, especially Marie. I was so fortunate to have known him, one of the true blessings in my life. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. God definitely has one of the good ones with him now.
Joann Speca
January 30, 2021
As a shy second grader (and only child at the time), my first visit to the Savaglio home with my dear friend Anne was a bit of culture shock. However, her parents, especially Dr. Al’s smile & sense of humor, quickly put me at ease. Their kitchen was always full of love and laughter (& lots of people:), and I was lucky enough to help make some of that fantastic ravioli over the years. May so many warm memories comfort you all - you have another guardian angel in your corner now - God bless you.With love & sympathy,Joann (Gemmell) Speca
Anne Troka
January 30, 2021
Thank you to all who shared your relationship and stories about my dad. It means so much to hear how he touched so many people's lives. He loved deeply and was loved deeply. Sincerely, thank you, love you all.
Mike Serpe
January 30, 2021
“Doc” Savaglio was a joyful fixture in the lives of any kid from Holy Rosary Parish born after 1949. His always smiling visage and undeniably sincere for G_d and all of us was manifest each and every day in what ever the encounter. I am so glad that I had so many chances to be touched by this truly kind and gentle man. My love and sympathy to his loving family.
Dawn
January 29, 2021
My deepest condolences to Dr. Al's family. I have been a patient of Dr. Savaglio's for almost 40 years. I seen him twice a year and we always talked about my family and his. You get to know a lot about each other as you get your teeth cleaned! He has always been one of my favorite friends in my life, even when he was yelling at me for not flossing my teeth! He will be deeply missed. Hang in there Marie, you had a special and real love and my prayers go out to you. Take Care, Dawn Pohlson
Candace Briggs
January 29, 2021
My deepest sympathy to the Savaglio family. Words, no matter how kind, can't mend your heartache. However, those who care for you wish you comfort and peace of mind to know he is with the King of Kings now. What a beautiful service for a wonderful man. Kathy-although I've never met your father before, I know for sure he had a hand in modeling behaviors that shaped the phenomenal woman you are today-your keen sense of humor, compassion, patience, and your heart for God are just to name a few. You have shared lots of stories about your family and I'm hoping that those good memories will be a comfort to you all while you grieve this gigantic loss. Please know that my family is keeping your entire family in our thoughts and prayers. Always. Candace Briggs and Family
Cheryl Beck
January 29, 2021
Marie and kids Tom and I are lifting you all up in prayer! Uncle Al was the most amazing role model for all of us - caring, giving, believing and not afraid to stand up for what he believed in. He was so funny there were few times when we were with him that he wasn't cracking jokes or encouraging us. We are both blessed that he was surrounded by such a great family, kids that he and Marie birthed and raised to be good solid kind loving human beings like himself, kids that are now raising their own kids to be like him. Uncle Al was a blessing to everyone and oh so wise! His sage counsel and wisdom set many of us on the right path when things weren't going well. We will miss him but are happy that he is surrounded by loved ones and his Savior Jesus Christ. Love you all and so sorry we couldn't all be together during this time!
Albert Savaglio
January 29, 2021
My sympathy and prayers go out to the Savaglio family.This message is from Albert Savaglio (one of the twins from Chicago.)He truly was a great man and always made me laugh.I wish I could have spent more time with him and Marie and gotten to know my second cousins.Life passes too quickly.God be with you all.
James Stevens
January 29, 2021
Sorry to hear of Dr. Al's passing. What a wonderful, caring man! I first met Dr. in the early sixties when my dad would take me to the Sunday Holy Rosary Holy name meetings. My dad and Dr. Al were very involved with the church activities and Dr. would often talk to me about what was going on in my life even though I was a young boy. I became a patient of his during the seventies. He was always concerned about not only my teeth but also my family. My wife Debbie became a patient after we were married and I learned that she lived next door to Dr. and Marie when they lived on the north side. My parents were also patients and the four of us would often talk about all the laughing that would occur during our dental appointments. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing him. He would hug us when we were leaving the office and I truly believed that he cared about us and all his patients and friends. A remarkable man, a man of his convictions. Rest in peace Dr. Al, you surely will be missed by all that knew you. Jim and Debbie Stevens
Susan Nielsen
January 28, 2021
We found Dr. Savaglio by looking for a dentist for small children. 50 years later he was still our dentist. What a wonderful human being he was! He always had a smile and each visit was filled with stories and laughter. He was not only a great dentist but a friend. There is a star shining brightly in the heavens now. He will be greatly missed by so many!My sympathy to his familiy, and prayers coming your way for comfort during this sad time.Susan Nielsen and children, Greg June, Grant June and Amber DeLuisa
Wendy Williams
January 28, 2021
Like many others, myself and several of my family members were first patients of Dr. Al's when he first began practicing at Villa CaprI Plaza. I was a small child and he was the only dentist I ever had until recently. I was never afraid and actually enjoyed going to the dentist - and my friends did think I was crazy! Dr. Al and I would laugh the whole time and exchange stories. He was always interested in every member of our family. We were so touched when he came to both our parents funerals and he cried almost as much as we did. My very special memory of him is once when I was about 7 (we lived in the Petretti neighborhood too), I had a toothache and marched myself right up to his front door and rang the bell. He was so kind and checked my tooth right there on the porch. We laughed about this often! When I came to my appointments as an adult, I would often ask him for advice, which he willingly gave and always with much thought. We will never forget him and he will always be missed. With our sincere sympathy, Wendy and Tom Williams and family
Carol Peratt
January 28, 2021
Our deepest sympathy to the Savaglio Family. Dr. Al was one of the nicest people you wanted to meet. We remember the many times we sat together at the Barracuda and Tremper swim meets. We had a lot of fun times and many memories. One of the nicest families we have known. In our thoughts and prayers!Love you all,Mike and Carol Peratt
Joe Gallo
January 28, 2021
My sympathy to the Savaglio family for their loss. I always looked forward to my visits with Dr Al. His smileand positive attitude were infectious. He will be missed but not forgotten.Joe Gallo
Richard J Borman
January 27, 2021
Marie and family, I was saddened to learn of Dr Al's passing. He was most certainly one of the special people you're fortunate to know in a lifetime. He was an inspiration in all the roles he filled and like so many others, every encounter I had with him made me smile. Your large extended family is a wonderful legacy. I know you'll find comfort in your faith and each other. Blessings, Dr B
Karen Szikil
January 27, 2021
Marie, our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family. May God give you the peace that you seek. Tony & Karen Szikil
Ray Arbet
January 27, 2021
Our deepest condolences to the entire Savaglio Family for the loss of Al, Dad, Poppa and Dr. Al.He was truly a one-of-a-kind guy who will never be duplicated - ever. He was a great friend and touched each member of the Arbet clan deeply and lovingly. All of us considered him a guy with the highest levels of integrity, passion, intelligence, work-ethic and love, He demonstrated the deepest love for his family and a genuine love of his patients (I know he cared for all his patients, but I'd like to think he cared just a snit more for the Arbets). There are so many great times and stories to share - but limited space, I'll hit just a few. As a kid I always looked forward to going to the Dentist. My friends all thought I was nuts - but hey, their Dentist probably didn't take the time to draw little faces on the cotton-tubes (used to keep your mouth dry) before he started working on your teeth. Dr. Al did and I'll never forgot it.In our teen years my brother Mike and I working on a fairly routine but dangerous task on our farm on a Sunday afternoon (we should have known not to be doing work on the day of rest). Long-story-short, Mike got hit square in the mouth with an iron bar and one of his top front teeth was knocked out. We called Dr. Al and he didn't think twice. He had us pack the tooth in ice and instructed us to meet him at his office ASAP. Bottom-line, Al carefully re-inserted Mike's tooth that afternoon and though it turned an interesting shade of gray for a few weeks - it eventually turned white again and he's still got it today at age 58. Would every Dentist handle that situation the same way - not sure, but there was only one way for Dr. Al to handle it.As an adult I always looked forward to my 2 hour routine cleanings - always so much to catch up on and discuss. So many life and family events to talk about and share - and I know my Mom, Dad and siblings (and their spouses!) all had similar routine cleanings with Dr. Al.We will all deeply miss him, he was way, way more than a Dentist to us - but we'll always keep the warm, funny, caring memories of him close, in our hearts.Hopefully our thoughts, memories of him and prayers for you, provide some comfort in your time of loss.The Arbet FamilyJane, Jane Lee, Ray Jr., Mike, Mary & Judy(Ray Sr. and Al will now be able to get caught up on things. Knowing how much they both love to talk - it will take them awhile.)
Ann Lambert
January 27, 2021
My sincerest condolences to the Savaglio Family. Dr. Savaglio was my dentist, from my first visit as a worried kindergartener to when I moved out of state after college. He always had a smile on his face and a "dad" joke to share. The memories of his patience, kindness, and caring will not be forgotten.
Marge Larson
January 27, 2021
My mother and I are sharing funny stories about Dr. Alex right now as I type this . He was a wonderful, darling man who will be missed very much ! He was our family dentist for many years, and I am so very sad to hear of his passing . May all the memories of this kind man help the Savaglio family during this difficult time . Krisan Knapp
Steven M Hennig
January 27, 2021
The Savaglio side of our family has always been one we've embraced with extreme gratitude. My mother Yolanda (rest her soul) was one of Al's 3 sisters and the most outspoken one..... with the middle name "Annunziatta" that made total sense..... she could create quite a storm with her words, Al seemed to be one of the only ones who could calm those stormy waters. Al could make anyone laugh with his bag of jokes coupled with "off the cuff" responses for any situation. I can only imagine having to set in his dental chair trying to keep still so he didn't slip up. One of his favorites was "You can call me anything you want, but don't call me late for dinner!!" I'll always remember my visits starting with the big hug and "kiss" on the lips (ugh) he would greet you with, then we'd proceed to the table of plenty where we'd have some of his favorite Homemade Ravioli, Chicken soup, with all the right fixins from Tenuta's finishing off with his famous Chocolate Italian Soda's! I've had many memorable and happy moments for which I am so thankful.His Love of faith, family & friends and his work was deeply rooted in his love for life with a dedication that was infectious as well as inspirational. Although he will be greatly missed I am comforted by the realization that he is in heaven with Gammy, Poppy, Rosalie, Adriana and Yolanda. I am sure they all have welcomed him after setting down to the biggest spread of Italian food one could imagine. Thank you Kenosha! In this time of Upheaval it is difficult to see the good but we will do our best as Al did his best! He indeed fought the good fight and now is at peace and resting with Our Lord. I am saddened that the western Hennig (Savaglio) clan is unable to be there for Al's going away services and celebration of life due to the state of our nation and we send our biggest hugs with condolences and best wishes to Marie, Joanie, Al, Michael, Susan, Kathy, Jennie and all their extended families. This family makes us proud and we've been blessed to have been a part of Al's and their lives. Al was a favorite as you can tell. Just a few of some memories below...... He always put a smile on your face!! With all our Love,Steve/Kim Hennig (Lydia, Leon, Tyus, Layla Rubalcava & Kacey, Jarrod, Ella, Lucy Crump)
Randall Briggs
January 27, 2021
My condolences to the entire family of Dr. Al. He was my dentist for a very long time and was one of nicest guys you could of ever met. I enjoyed going to see him and Marie and had some laughs. He will always be remembered and sadly missed by all that knew him.
Paul Schmidt
January 27, 2021
Dear Savaglio family,Although I haven't lived in Kenosha for over 25 yrs, Dr. Savaglio is a strong memory - always smiling, always laughing. In the very best way, he filled whatever room he was in and made it feel welcoming. My deepest sympathy to your family.Paul Schmidt
Geri S Sorensen
January 27, 2021
Although we were not patients of Doctor Al, (we are patients of Doctor Jo) he always greeted us with a warm smile and hello if he was in the reception area. John had the pleasure of teaching CPR to Doctor Al. He said that Doctor Al was determined to learn in his 80s. He even got down on the floor to perform CPR when he was told he could do it from standing position with the mannequin on a firm table.He filled a tooth for Geri when Doctor Jo was on vacation. I brought him a bag of tomatoes from our garden and he said "no charge" for the filling. I laughed and said just like the old days and old country aren't you glad I didn't bring a chicken!Doctor Al will be remember for his smile and kindness. He was truly the "salt of the earth". Your loss is Heaven's gain. Our deepest sympathy to Doctor Al's family. John and Geri Sorensen
Cheryl Deininger
January 27, 2021
Mrs. Savaglio, Joan, Al, Sue, Michael, Cathy, Anne & Jenny,I was so sorry to hear about Dr. Al's passing. I don't remember ever seeing him when he didn't have that huge smile on his face. I remember him in the neighborhood with your black lab - he was always happy to see everyone and made time to ask how everything was going. I can still picture him at Radigan's - every time he saw me you would have thought I was his long lost best friend - that big smile and always so happy. What a gift he had! I will have you all in my thoughts and prayers in the days and weeks ahead. With deepest sympathy, Cheryl Deininger
Jodi Stettner
January 26, 2021
I am deeply saddened to hear of Dr. Al’s passing. He meant a great deal to me and I will miss him greatly. I will miss our talks when I was sitting in his dental chair. He was so easy to talk to and I could tell him anything. I actually looked forward going to the dentist because of our discussions. He was like a second Father to me and I loved him very much. I am truly sad of his passing and my deepest sympathy to Marie and the entire family. Love you Dr. Al! Jodi Stettner
Marge Larson
January 26, 2021
Dr. Alex and I go back to when he just opened an office In The Villa Capri area. He even lived in Petrettiville at that time. I lived very close to the corner where his office was located. My dog would visit regularly. I followed him to his south side location. Through the years we had so much fun, laughing and talking that it was hard for him to work on my teeth. We had to eventually quiet down so he could drill away. I miss him so much. I remember sitting at the HobNob restaurant when he walked in with a group. I spontaneously yellled Dr. Alex. We laughed about that often. Rest In Peace!
Cathy Koessl
January 26, 2021
Dear Savaglio Family - We were so sorry to hear about Dr. Savaglio's death. Our Dad (Dr. Vincent Rizzo) loved his trips to Marquette for Continuing Education Classes with your Dad. I'm sure they were the oldest ones in the class. :) I know neither one of them ever wanted to retire. We are sending you lots of prayers. Love - the Rizzo Family
Judy Bonofiglio
January 26, 2021
Marie,Phyllis and I are so sorry for your loss. Phyllis and Judy Bonofiglio
Lawrence Kreuser
January 26, 2021
Our sympathy and prayers go out to the family. Larry and Dianne Kreuser and family
jerry burmeister
January 26, 2021
Jerry BurmeisterI am honored to have known Al Savaglio as my friend and dentist for over 50 years. When I think the word dentist, the first person that comes to mind is Al. My first visit to Dr. Savaglio was in the late "60s when I needed a root canal in my front tooth. Shots in my gums had never pleasant and this time was going to be up front. I waited for the shot and was surprised that there was no pain. I was amazed, that I kept coming back until Al retired. Al had the touch. He was the greatest dentist ever and I miss him. God bless and keep Al and the entire Savaglio family.
Kamela Gleason
January 26, 2021
+JMJ+ Dear Mrs. Savaglio and Families, Please accept our deepest sympathies for the loss of your husband, father, and Papa. I have many fond memories of his kindness and warm smile. As a faithful devotee of the holy rosary, he remained under the protection of Our Lady. We know that she never abandons those who are faithful to this prayer. May his soul, through the mercy of God and His blessed Mother, rest in eternal peace. We will keep him and your dear family in our prayers. God bless you all.Sincerely,,Kamela (Cascio) and David Gleason
Lynn Wright
January 26, 2021
Marie and Family,As I watch the snow lightly falling and read about Dr. Al’s passing, my heart is heavy but also gladdened because he is no longer suffering. I was with Dr. Al for 55 years. As others have mentioned, he was more than a dentist to us. We loved exchanging stories with him about our families and the events of our lives, both joyful and difficult. I hope that his service will include Perry Como singing A va Maria as he so often told me. He was a truly kind and gentle spirit. On angel’s wings, dear friend. Lynn and Al Wright
Anthony Bisciglia
January 26, 2021
Dear Marie and Family, We were so sorry to hear of cousin, Dr. Al.'s passing. He was a good Catholic man and a wonderful human being who cared about everyone. Every time we saw him, he had a smile and something nice to say. He will be missed by everyone who knew him. Know that our thoughts and prayers are with each and everyone in your family. We have made a donation to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in his name. Tony and Rita Take care and God Bless You All. Tony and Rita
Jeanne Brush
January 26, 2021
Doc, we were together from the start of your career in Kenosha and later neighbors in the Forest Park community. I remember taking the kids trick or treating and shouting from the sidewalk that those treats better be.sugar free. You always treated me with kindness, generosity and compassion. In my book you were a great man and I will miss you. Wish I could be there to say farewell my friend ..........Jeanne Brush
Jayne Steinmetz
January 25, 2021
Dr. Al was my dentist for many years. He was so kind, caring and most humble. He truly cared about his patients. I thought of him as my second Dad....we would have conversations and he would give me great advice. He always asked how my parents, Frank and Lori Aiello, were doing and asked about my kids too. He always greeted me with his wonderful smile and when I left, he always gave me a big hug. He will be truly missed. My heart and prayers go out to Marie and the entire Savaglio family. May all your memories bring you much comfort in this very sad time and always.Jayne ( Aiello) Steinmetz
Dick Chiappetta
January 25, 2021
rnschiappetta@att.comDr. Al was a wonderful man and a caring dentist. He was truly one a kind. Who in their right mind would look forward going to the dentist, we did . It was a session first filled with laugh's and then a question and answer session on the neighborhood and what our fellow Italian's were up to. He was so proud of his family, he just glowed when you asked him how they were doing. My wife and I will greatly miss his wonderful smile . Marie may God look with kindness and love on your family during this hard time. Sue & Dick Chiappetta
Marianne Schiess
January 24, 2021
Oh, what a wonderful man Al was. So kind, and humble in every way. My wonderful dentist for many years but also a remembrance of Al and Marie's wedding day is still in my memory of them. Such a beautiful couple. Living next door to Marie during my childhood, I would see them dating and loved seeing them hug and kiss when he left after he brought her home from a date. (Yes, I would peak from my living room window :) My heart goes out to the family and Marie. He was such a special father, Papa, and especially husband. RIP Al
BellaMegaro13@aol.com
January 24, 2021
With love and respect. We will miss you. Love and prayers, Roger & Carole Martin .