Albert “Hoot Al” Stephenson, 90, of Evansville, IN, passed away peacefully on Monday, June 28, 2021.

He was born August 30, 1930, in Petersburg, IN to Thomas and Mima (Selby) Stephenson. Albert’s father was killed in a coal mine accident in 1938. Following his death, the family farm duties were dutifully carried on by Albert, his older sister Luella, and his mother.

Albert graduated in 1948 from Petersburg High School and Purdue University in 1952 with a degree in Industrial Engineering. He worked at Whirlpool Corp for 34.5 years before retiring as a Production Supervisor.

Albert proudly served in the US Army from 1953 to 1955 in occupied Germany with the 84th Field Artillery Battalion of the 9th Infantry Division. He reflected very fondly of his time in the service and said volunteering to serve your country “is just what you did” in those times. He was honored in 2017 as Veteran of the Year by the Veteran’s Council of Indiana and also traveled to Washington DC on the Honor Flight that year.

Albert’s hobbies included hunting and he made several trips out West. He also was an avid collector/trader and could be found hitting the garage sale trails and flea markets. Often he “helped” people open up as he usually was the first to arrive. He loved playing clabber at his many veteran clubs where he also served on several boards. He was a converted IU sports fan and enjoyed watching football and basketball games on TV, as well as good ol’ western shows like Gunsmoke.

VFW Post 1114 Life member – Past President Life membership Club
American Legion Funkhouser Post 8 – Past Director 5 years
40 & 8 Voyager 471 – Chef De Gare 9 years
Vanderburgh County Veterans Council – Director 9 years

Albert was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Shirley (Freeman) in 2017; his parents; and sister, Luella Newkirk.

Albert is survived by his sons Thomas G. (born on Albert’s 27th birthday) and Robert E. “Bob” (Laura) Stephenson (born 2 years later on his wife Shirley’s birthday); granddaughters Kelsey Bonestroo (Nick) of Minneapolis and Courtney of whichever National Park her campervan is camped in at the moment.

The family would like to say a special THANK YOU to those who helped care for Albert during his last days on earth.

A private graveside service will be held at Sunset Funeral Home.

Condolences(2)

Nancy Besing Owens says
June 30, 2021 at 4:55 pm

Many great memories of a terrific uncle. And Christmas Eves at Ab & Shirley’s house. He loved his family, especially his granddaughters! Always a good sense of humor. And so active in so many things. Only person that could get me to taste deer meat! Uncle Albert was always a interesting man to talk with. He will be missed by many.
Tonja Duncan says
July 1, 2021 at 2:16 pm

Al was a special friend to me I will always remember him.and treasure our friendship. I was a collector and when he would get several items that he thought I would be interested in he would call me. I would buy them. He would always have a list made out with two columns, one the worth of the item and the other the cost. He did this so I would know their value. He was so helpful. One day after he moved into his apartment, he asked me if I felt he had been fair to me. It was important for him to know. Of course he was always fair. He was so knowledgeable about many things and remembered everything. I had such respect for him. I found him to be honest and had integrity.

Losing his father at at eight, he rose up above his circumstances and attained greatness but he was humble. He loved life and people. He took on leadership, went the extra mile for his family, country and friends. He was always willing to lend a helping hand.
My son lost his eyesight who was a veteran, he wanted to help with possible benefits
from the VA.
He told many stories about the military. He had a sense of humor. Often he would share how proud he was of his family and their achievements.

The world is a better place because of Albert Stephenson. His legacy will be passed on.
He will not be forgotten..
Rest In Peace my dear friend.

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Albert Stephenson

August 30, 1930 - June 28, 2021

Condolences(2)

Nancy Besing Owens says

Tonja Duncan says

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