Memorial services for Robert G. Albreski, Sr., 76, were held at 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 2, 2018, in Centennial Chapel of Harvey-Douglas Funeral Home with Reverend Bruce Kirby officiating.

Robert was born March 12, 1942, in Erie, Penn., to Felix and Frances Albreski. After high school graduation, Bob went to serve both the Federal and State Governments for the next forty four years, 20 in the United State Air Force, 8 in New Mexico State Government and 16 years with the Social Security Administration. During his distinguished military career, he was awarded 24 military decorations to include: 3 Air Force Commendation Medals, Presidential Unit Citation, 2 Air Force Outstanding Unit Awards, 5 USAF Good Conduct Medals, 1 USA Good Conduct Medal, 1 Army of Occupation Medal (Europe), 1 Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/ three bronze battle stars, National Defense Service Medal, USAF Longevity Ribbon with/4 Oak Leaf Clusters, USAF NCO Academy Ribbon, USAF Expert Marksmanship Ribbon, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry w/Palm, and Vietnam Service Medal w/1960 indicator.

Robert achieved many things in life; from Administrator of the State of New Mexico’s Commodities Program to retiring from the Social Security Administration as a Claims Representative. He was a diligent worker who found time to take care of his family and attended night and weekend classes, for many years, to finally become a 1983 alumnus of the University of Southern Illinois in the undergraduate degree area of Post Secondary Occupational Education.

Some guiding light sent Robert a lovely, true woman in the form of Alma Veronica Martinez, in his later years, to become his wife, friend and everything in life. With this union, Robert came to truly love and adopt his youngest son, David a star that will shine a long time.

He is survived by his loving wife Veronica of the home; loving son, Mark F. Albreski and wife Shannon of Albuquerque, and adopted loving son, David R. Martinez, Duke student, and wife Kelsey Behrens; daughter, Debbie V. De Leon of Ardmore, Okla., and husband Pedro De Leon of Vernon, Texas; grandchildren, Jessica, Skylar and Travis Albreski of Albuquerque, Ralphael and Oscar D. Interiano of Lone Grove, Okla.,; daughter, Sabrina R. Ayala and husband Josue N. Ayala of Ardmore, Okla. Preceded in death by his parents and his beautiful daughter, Laura A. Albreski. Robert was a commanding presence in life and will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him.

Condolences may be made to the family online at hdouglasfuneralhome.com.

Memorials may be made to the Asbury Woods Nature Center. The family would like to extend their sincere thank you to the caregivers, family, and friends who provided their prayers, love, and support during Marie's illness.

Published in the Erie Times-News on Mar. 30, 2018