John Albanese

John Albanese, 101, of South Barrington, passed away peacefully on June 13, 2026. He was born on October 25, 1924, in Albany, New York, to the late Joseph and Josephine Albanese.

He attended Schuyler High School, where he served as class president, graduating with the Class of 1942. Following high school, John answered the call to serve his country during World War II, joining the Army Air Corps and serving in the South Pacific. He remained grateful throughout his life for the opportunities his military service afforded him, particularly the educational opportunities that helped shape his future.

After the war, John attended Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, earning a degree in Chemical Engineering in January 1949. His commitment to learning never wavered, and in 1966 he earned a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago.

Education was one of John's greatest passions. He firmly believed that learning opened doors and created opportunities. Beginning with his own children and extending through generations, he encouraged academic achievement and rewarded his grandchildren for good grades throughout their high school years. He also established college funds for each of his grandchildren, a tradition of educational support that continues today for his great-grandchildren. His investment in their futures reflected his deep belief that education was among life's greatest gifts.

John lived according to principles rooted in faith, family, and service. He often reflected on the biblical teachings, "Love one another as I have loved you" and "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Equally influential were the words of his mother, who often said, "If your family won't help you, who will?" She also exemplified the biblical call to "have courage and strength," values that John embraced and passed along to his children and grandchildren. Perhaps one of his most memorable pieces of advice was to "spend no dime before it's time," a simple but profound lesson that encouraged patience, perspective, and enjoying life's journey.

Family was at the center of John's life. He was a kind and loving husband whose marriage to Mary Lou was a model of partnership and devotion. Over 51 years together, they built a relationship grounded in communication, compromise, and mutual respect. John often said that a strong marriage required tending to the weeds as they appeared, a philosophy that helped sustain their enduring bond.

John was equally devoted to maintaining his physical health. Beginning in the 1960s, he made a habit of jogging before work each morning, a routine he continued well into retirement. He completed his final 5K Turkey Trot at the age of 84 and continued walking and jogging into his 90s. Even when running was no longer possible, he remained active by doing morning pushups, demonstrating the discipline and determination that defined his life.

Professionally, John enjoyed a distinguished career with Acme Resin Company. He joined the company in 1955 as a sales representative, was promoted to Technical Director in 1957, and was named Vice President in 1967. He remained with Acme Resin until his retirement in 1984.

Retirement did not slow him down. On June 30, 1984, John became a Certified Financial Planner and subsequently formed Albanese, Hemsley & Tussing. He continued helping individuals and families plan for their futures until approximately 2010, bringing the same integrity and dedication to this second career that he had demonstrated throughout his professional life.

John also believed strongly in giving back to his community. He served as President of The Coves Homeowners Association and was a member of the Board of Directors for the Stillman Nature Center. His commitment to service reflected his lifelong desire to help others and leave his community stronger than he found it.

Among his many interests, John earned his private pilot's license in the 1970s. Flying represented both freedom and adventure, and he always dreamed of making a cross-country flight, a goal that reflected his enduring optimism and willingness to embrace new challenges.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know him.

John will be deeply missed by his devoted wife of 51 years, Mary Lou Albanese; children, John Edward Albanese and Terry Ann (David) Goff; grandchildren, Kevin, Sandy, Michael (Julia), Daniel (Becky) Goff and John William (Gena), Robert (Mandy), David (Lisa) Steven (Gabby) Albanese and Jodi (Josh) Harrison; and by 23 great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his siblings, Dominic Albanese, Joseph Albanese, Anne Laravie, Mary Bruder.

Visitation will be Monday, June 22, 2026 from 9 AM until the funeral mass at 10:30 AM, at Saint Anne Catholic Church, 120 Ela St. (corner of Ela and Franklin Sts.) Barrington, IL 60010. Interment will be private.