Ernest “Ernie” Lee Albertson, 84, of Orleans, Indiana, passed away on April 29, 2024, at 6:32 p.m., with a
loved one by his side. As a cherished member of our family and community, we now have the opportunity
to honor and remember his life.
Ernie was born at his family home in Boswell, Indiana on September 20, 1939, to Nora (Bryant) and Allen
Albertson. He was the youngest of many siblings and was close to his family.
Ernie graduated from Boswell High School in 1957 and was drafted into the United States Army shortly
after with several of his brothers. Ernie was stationed in Germany, where his commanding officer
recruited him for his remarkable penmanship skills. He was a typist and scripter for the United States
Army for several years before receiving a hardship discharge after his younger sister Sue was killed
tragically in an automobile accident. Ernie returned home to care for his parents during that difficult time.
Upon his return, Ernie began working at Crane Naval Base, where he worked for 30 years in the supply
and manufacturing department. He was very proud of his time at Crane and often spoke of the lifelong
friends he met while working there.
In 1963, Ernie met and courted the love of his life, Mary Ethel Melvin. The two were married on February
18, 1967, and they welcomed their first son, Troy Lee Albertson, on Thanksgiving day – November 23 rd ,
that same year, and their second son, Gregory Scott Albertson, on January 12, 1970.
Ernie’s favorite hobbies were gardening, hunting, and deep-sea fishing with his brother and lifelong best
friend, Al Albertson. The two were best known as Tude and Tiny. He had the most amazing group of
friends and the privilege of traveling out West and South to the ocean, often with them for hunting and
fishing trips.
Ernie’s love for his family was immeasurable. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Greg
(Michelle) Albertson (Arizona), one daughter-in-law, Nicole Cooper (Orleans), five granddaughters, Baili
(Anthony) Campbell (Orleans), Taylor Albertson (Orleans), Victoria “Tori” Albertson (Paoli), Chelsie and
Darby Albertson (Arizona), four great-grandchildren, Alaina Jo, daughter to Taylor (Orleans), Hannah
Lynn and Kinley Kaye, daughters of Chelsie (Arizona), and Daxston Lee, son of Tori (Paoli). Being a
papaw to his grandbabies was one of Ernie’s greatest honors and joys in his earthly life, a testament to
the love and warmth he shared with his family.
His wife, Mary Ethel, son Troy Lee, and grandson, James Brady, preceded him in death, in addition to his
parents and siblings.
The family will hold a visitation and service in Ernie’s honor from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, May 8,
2024, at Ochs Tetrick Funeral Home, with Eric Carmichael officiating. A full military graveside burial will
follow at Freedom Cemetery on East 60 in Mitchell. Ernie will be laid to rest beside his wife, son, and
grandson.
Ernie was an active member of the VFW Post 9107 in Mitchell, and they will graciously host Ernie’s family
and friends after the service.
Online condolences may be sent to the family at ochstetrick.net
