Robert Albers of Valparaiso, died peacefully February 14, at age 79, having entrusted himself into the hands of a loving God. Born March 13, 1944, in Sheboygan, Wis., he was raised in Milwaukee, and attended Concordia High School and Junior College, now Concordia University Wisconsin, Concordia Senior College in Fort Wayne, and graduated from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, earning a B.A. in journalism in 1968. He immediately enlisted in the U. S. Navy and was admitted to Construction Battalion (Seabee) school. His service included a deployment in Vietnam for which he received the Vietnam Service Medal among others. As a Seabee, he exhibited strong skills in carpentry and cabinetmaking which became his occupation after his honorable discharge. Later in life he developed techniques for creating highly artistic, wood sculptures for credenzas, mantels and dressers. These he exhibited at art shows in NW Indiana, under the name “Bob’s Wood Art,” earning awards, including “Best New Exhibitor” and “Best in Class.” He retired from woodworking in 2019 but was often consulted on questions about construction, woods and finishes.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Alyda I. and Waldemar H. Albers. He leaves behind three adult children and five grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother James (Joanne) Albers, with whom he resided the last 13 years; sisters Connie (+Rev. John Koch), and Carla (Rev. Dr. James Bollhagen), as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Bob loved caps, especially his Seabee hat. which he proudly wore delivering Meals on Wheels. His affection for dogs, especially Molly, who took him on daily sniffaris, led to many neighborhood friendships.
A commemorative service will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Valparaiso, on Monday, February 19, at 12:00 noon, with a visitation beginning at 10:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Immanuel’s Food Pantry, the VNA, or NAMI. Click here to watch the funeral service.
GUESTBOOK
My sincere condolences to the members of Bob's family. I would look forward to his & Molly's visit as they would stop and say hello to share a short conversation. I was one of those neighbors who appreciated his kind words of wisdom. -Rev. Philip and Mrs. Beatrice Sievers
I’ve know Bob for a while, we met as he walked Molly. We became good friends and he would stop and sit on my patio and we would talk for the longest time. I know he loved the Lord. He really liked my 7 year old grandson, this past Christmas he bought him two children’s bibles and he loves them. Bob had so many friends along the path that he and Molly walked. He was one of my best friends and he will be deeply missed. My condolences to Jim and Joanne and the rest of his family. -Mark Porter
