UFT Admin
Albert Muratore, a dedicated teacher and a member of the UFT since its earliest days, died on March 12, 2025, 10 days shy of his 100th birthday, from complications due to pneumonia.
Al helped organize the fledgling union by speaking with colleagues and taking part in the 1960 strike that won collective bargaining for teachers. Despite the career risks involved, he took part in both the 1960 as well as the 1968 strike, which was so long-lasting he had to balance time on the picket line with construction work to support his family.
Al continued to participate enthusiastically in union events throughout his career and into his retirement in 1990, always grateful for the respect and benefits the union provided. He was a proud UFT member and shared those values with his children and grandchildren, including his son Robert, who retired from teaching physics, engineering and research at the Bronx HS of Science and now teaches at a private school, and his grandson, Benjamin, a New York State certified teaching assistant.
Al worked as a teacher in New York City, first in Harlem, and soon after, at the then new Hillside JHS 172 in Floral Park, Queens (now Irwin Altman MS). He taught physical education there for 25 years, from September 1954 through March 1979, and later became dean of the department. He also organized an afterschool center for sports for students and, for many summers, ran the Clearview Day Camp in Queens.
Al’s final job as a UFT member was as the science curriculum coordinator in the District 25 office in Queens, from which he retired in 1990. His calm demeanor and pragmatism earned him the respect of his students and colleagues throughout his career.
The youngest of six children, Al was born in Forest Hills, Queens, to Francesco and Rosalia Muratore, who had emigrated from Sicily, Italy, in their teens. Growing up, he had several neighborhood friends to whom he remained close throughout his lifetime.
During World War II, Al enlisted in the Army at age 18, training in Georgia before he was shipped to France to operate anti-aircraft guns. At the close of hostilities, he drove supply trucks and clerked at a waypoint in Thionville, France, organizing the movements, temporary housing and feeding of Allied troops and German prisoners. He was honorably discharged in 1946 with the rank of sergeant. Al was patriotic and proud to be an American.
Returning to the U.S., Al used the GI Bill to enroll in Panzer College of Physical Education and Hygiene in East Orange, New Jersey, (now Montclair State University). He earned his bachelor’s degree in physical education in 1951, becoming the first in his family to graduate from college. Al later went on to earn two master’s degrees from Queens College and certification as a school administrator.
In 1972, Al earned a Builder of Brotherhood award from the National Conference of Christians and Jews for his work as an educator.
During family vacations every year at the end of August, wherever Al traveled – from Maine to Florida; Washington, D.C., to Los Angeles – he would meet former students who would enthusiastically greet him and reminisce.
He was also an avid Yankees fan and excellent golfer.
Al is survived by his wife, Modestina, his sons Robert and David, an engineer whose firm designs and renovates schools; Robert’s wife, Doris Benter, who teaches art to retired UFT members through the SI Beagle program, and David’s wife, Joan; grandchildren Isabella, James and Benjamin; and many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and their children.
Condolences can be sent to moody.muratore@gmail.com.
