James Earl Albertson, 87, Marion, passed away at 9:46 am on Monday, October 16, 2023, at Marion Health with his children at his side. He was born in Albany, Kentucky, on Wednesday, September 16, 1936, to Bill Jake and Kathryn (Hammond) Albertson.
James was in the Army from 1959 to 1961, serving two years in Germany, 37th Armor Division, where he drove a tank. Following his military service, he worked at General Motors for 30 years and was well-known there for his “payday hat”.
James had a collection of guitars and would play anywhere he could. He was known as the Kentucky Wanderer and played at a couple of local radio stations. James loved owning and riding motorcycles, bicycles, and scooters. He said when he was a kid he didn’t get many toys, so he bought them when he was an adult. He also loved listening to country and bluegrass music and was a member of the Central Indiana Bluegrass Association. James never met a stranger, and he loved eating at Richards Restaurant.
Survivors include his son, Randy (Dee) Albertson of Marion; daughter, Brenda Goble of Marion; ex-wife and still dear friend, Carolyn S. Albertson of Marion; girlfriend, Janis Abbott of Russell Springs, KY; grandsons, Jordan (Cara) Shanks of Waverly, IA, and Nathan Shanks of Marion; granddaughter, Lauren Albertson of Marion; great-grandsons, Cayden Shanks, Lennon Shanks, Bodi Shanks, and Archer Shanks; great-granddaughter Lennon Shanks; and sister, Judy (Kenny) Davis.
He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Eloise Taulbee and Jane Adrianson; and brothers, Bill Albertson, Bob Albertson, Floyd Albertson, Jerry Albertson, and Carl Albertson.
The family will receive visitors from 9:30 am to 11:30 am on Friday, October 27, 2023, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave, Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a funeral service to celebrate James’ life will begin at 11:30 am with Chaplain Darrell Smith officiating. Burial will take place at Marion National Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Central Indiana Bluegrass Association, 307 W. S. H St., Gas City, IN 46933.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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