John Robert Alban's Obituary
With heavy hearts we announce the death of John Robert Alban, 84 of Ashburn, Virginia, formerly of Wantagh, New York. John, also known as Jack, passed peacefully on Sunday, August 16, 2020 at his home. He is survived by his beloved wife, Mary Gallagher Alban and his children, Kathleen Ward, Thomas Alban, Eileen Annino and James Alban, his son-in-law, Thomas Ward, and daughters-in-law Mary Beth Alban and Jean Marie Alban. He was incredibly proud of his 10 grandchildren and delighted in 3 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his dear sister, Ruth Farrell and many nieces and nephews.
Born Saturday, December 14, 1935 in Newark, New Jersey, he was the son of the late John Alban and Veronica Zawalich Alban and brother to the late, Henry Albanowicz and Joan Wolf. He deeply treasured his family and family values. His selflessness, kindness and generosity were recognized by all who knew him.
John served in the United States Marine Corps beginning in 1953. A dedicated firefighter, he began his 33-year career in the Newark Fire Department in1959, before his appointment to the Fire Department of the City of New York on October 23,1965, achieving the rank of Battalion Chief and retiring from service on March 11, 1992.
John remained a patriot through his adult life, serving as an active member the American Legion for more than 30 years, for which he served in multiple leadership positions, including Legion Commander. Due to his passion for civic responsibility, he coordinated local Boys/Girls State, the summer leadership and citizenship programs.
A fierce poker player, a formidable chess opponent and a consummate joker, John brought joy and laughter to his family, friends, co-workers and neighbors. An avid reader and a lover a nature, he had a passion for knowledge.
A Funeral service will be at 10:30 AM on Friday, August 28 at St. Theresa Catholic Church located at 21371 St. Theresa Lane Ashburn, Virginia 20147. Interment will be in Quantico National Cemetery, Triangle, VA.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Thursday, August 27, 2020 at Loudoun Funeral Chapel, 158 Catoctin Circle, SE, Leesburg, Virginia.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.loudounfuneralchapel.com
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: The New York Firefighters Burn Center Foundation, 21 Asch Loop, Bronx, NY. 10475 Online donations can be made at https://www.nyffburncenter.com
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