John James Albertson Sr.

February 22, 1943 ~ January 29, 2015

John passed away in his Long Beach home on Thursday, January 29, 2015. Preceding him in death were his wife Karren Marie Albertson (Miller) in 2011 and daughter Tiffany Marie Albertson in 2007.

John was born February 22nd 1943 in Long Beach where he remained his whole life. In October 1964 he married Karren, and they remained at each other’s side until her passing in March of 2011. Following their marriage Karren and John built their family through the 1960's into the early 1970's. During that time John held several different jobs, doing whatever it took to pay the bills. In 1974 he found a career in the beer the industry. For the next 15 years he moved through multiple roles with 2 different beer wholesalers on his way to a top position as Operations Manager. During this time was when he started to leave his mark on Long Beach. But it was in 1984 that he found his true calling. That's when he opened Soccer City with his friend and business partner Gordon Rule. John had been involved in the soccer community since 1978 where he was a founding board member of LBYSO. He also coached every level from youth recreation to Men's Semi-Pro. So opening a proper soccer store was an obvious fit. He remained and maintained that business for the next 30 years as well as kept up appearances at various soccer pitches watching his granddaughters.

John is survived by his daughter Stephany Albertson, son Johnny Albertson, Jr., daughter-in-law Denise Albertson, grand-daughters Kelsey, Shelby, Jamie, and Jessica Albertson, brothers James and Joe Musae, and many nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested a donation in John's name to the American Heart Association.