John R. Albertson "Talking Bird"

John "Johnny" Raymond Albertson, 78, of La Porte, IN, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at his home with his wife by his side.

Johnny was born on June 14, 1947, in La Porte, IN, to Charles and Elizabeth "Betty" (Farrar) Albertson.

On June 9, 2007, in Fremont, IN, he married Tina Lubs, who survives. Also surviving are his 3 children, Jenelle (Steve) Handel of Crown Point, Casey (Lisa) Albertson of Olathe, KS, and Laura (Brian) Walls of Deland, FL; 7 grandchildren, Bryan David, Camden, Jacob, Sophia, Quentyn, Kennedy, and Colton; mother-in-law, Linda L. Lubs of Westville; sisters, Judy Duensing of La Porte, Marcia (Wilbert) Strefling of Port Charlotte, FL, and Roberta Galloway of Indianapolis; brother, Rick Albertson, Sr. of La Porte; sister-in-law, Heather Benson of Westville; 2 special nephews, Michael and Heath Benson of Westville; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Deb Capron, Betty Igou, and Sandra O'Kresik; and brothers, Charles Albertson, Jr., Ronald Albertson, Sr., and Robert Albertson.

He was a baptized believer in Jesus Christ and a member of Trinity Lutheran Church.

Johnny was a machine operator at Jefferson Smurfit Corp. for many years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, playing his guitar, hunting for mushrooms, creating beaded jewelry, and playing softball, which he did for 35 years. Johnny loved his Beagle dogs, Christo's biscuits and gravy, barn parties, and collecting antiques. Although a Pepsi fan through and through, Johnny enjoyed collecting Coca-Cola bottles. He loved the Chicago Bears, Notre Dame, and the Chicago Cubs. Johnny was crazy about his birthday and the celebration that ensued!

Known as "Talking Bird', he was very proud of his Native heritage. He became skilled at not only beaded jewelry but also buckskin designs. John took great pride in his buckskin creations and honorably wore them.

He enjoyed being outside, tinkering around with his truck, a tractor, or his John Deer. Johnny was proud of his 1964 Ford pickup truck, but his pride and joy was his 1957 Allis Chalmers Tractor. He was a hard worker and enjoyed working around the farm. Johnny could fix anything and was quick to put others to work when they visited--he loved seeing everyone busy working!

Johnny was blessed with a large circle of beloved friends who would stop by to chat. He was always willing to share his latest projects with those friends.

He treasured being a husband, father, and grandfather. Johnny was most proud of being called "Papa" by his precious grandchildren. He and Tina enjoyed 32 years together. Johnny will be dearly missed by those closest to him.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center with Pastor Loftis officiating.

A time of visitation will be held from 9 a.m. until the time of the service on Saturday at the funeral home. Cremation will take place following the service.

Memorial donations may be made to the donor's choice.

Tina would like to publicly thank their dear friend and Johnny's caregiver, Brad West, for his unwavering love and care. Brad is truly a gift from God and has been present through every step of both the good and bad days to help Johnny and Tina during this difficult time. A special thank you also to the team at Trail Creek OPS Living, Center for Hospice, and to all the friends and family that have supported Johnny and Tina--your support, love, and care are dearly treasured.

Condolences may be shared with the family on www.cutlercares.com.