Albert Louis Florence, 91, of Galesburg, formerly of Oak Run, died at 5:44 p.m. Thursday, August 8, 2019, in Seminary Manor.
He was born October 22, 1927, in Chicago, the son of Joe and Anna (Panegasser) Florence. He married Gloria E. Graffis in 1944, in Wheaton.
He is survived by his wife of 75 years, Gloria; two daughters, Donna (Clifford) Weaver of Chicago and Linda (Tom) Kordewick of Galesburg; three grandchildren, Megan (Jason) Brodkey, Kali Kordewick, and Michael (Sommer) Kordewick; and five great grandchildren, Asher Brodkey, Kailer Kordewick, Kamden Kordewick, Kasen Kordewick, and Hazel Brodkey. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, O’reste Florence.
While living in the Chicagoland area, Albert was a yardmaster for the Indiana Belt Railroad for many years. He later owned a women’s clothing store and was an insurance agent for Pennsylvania Life. After retirement, he worked in the western suburbs demonstrating Webber Grills. Albert was educated at Austin High School in Chicago and Moraine Valley Community College.
Albert attended the Dahinda United Methodist Church. He enjoyed golfing and a good Scotch. Albert enjoyed traveling to Italy, especially when his daughter, Donna, owned a vineyard there. He was a fan of the Chicago Bears.
Cremation will be accorded. The family will host a Celebration of Life from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, August 25, 2019 at Seminary Estates. Memorial contributions may be made to Dahinda United Methodist Church or Hospice Compassus. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Services Galesburg Chapel is handling cremation arrangements for the family. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
