Albert Martin Rymark

Born November 9, 1936, Al lived most of his life in Chicago and Arlington Heights, Illinois, and in Winneconne, Wisconsin. He shared his life with his beloved wife, Joanne Rymark, to whom he had been devoted since they were 20 years old. Their decades-long marriage was a testament to loyalty and love. Joanne preceded him in death in October 2024, and he carried her in his heart every day thereafter.

Al dedicated his entire career to Peoples Gas, where he was deeply respected for his tireless work ethic and integrity. In his early years, he worked many additional side jobs to provide Joanne and their children with a stable and loving home. Hard work was not something he spoke about; it was simply how he lived.

Outside of work, Al found his greatest joy on the water. A lifelong boating enthusiast, he owned countless boats throughout his life and built his first at just 17 years old. Whether on a Wisconsin lake or the open ocean, he was happiest at the helm, surrounded by family and friends.

In addition to his cherished lifelong friendships with a group known as “The Trotters,” whom he had known since kindergarten, Al cultivated deep friendships from every walk of life. He was someone others instinctively turned to; a steady and trusted presence who was dependable, generous, and always ready to show up. His social life was filled with gatherings, trips, and milestone celebrations, a reflection of the countless people who considered him one of their closest friends. His loyalty ran deep, and his gift for making others feel valued made him, quite simply, everyone’s best friend.

He loved music and played the accordion, bringing joy and energy wherever he went, and was a loyal Chicago sports fan, especially of the Cubs and the Bears. Known as much for his spirit as his strength, Al was fun-loving and full of life. Big in personality and presence, he filled every room in the best way and was truly loved by everyone who knew him.

Al was known for his generosity and unwavering devotion to his family. He gave freely of his time, resources, and support and was a steady presence in the lives of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His later years reflected remarkable strength and resilience as he faced significant health challenges with determination and grace.

Al is survived by his loving children, Debra (Jeffrey) Thommes and Scott (Kathleen) Rymark; his cherished grandchildren, Lauren (Brian) Ronan, James “Jimmy” (Michelle) Thommes, Taylor (Miguel) Marroquin, and Lindsey (Joe) Trinite; and his adored great-grandchildren; Ava, Sasha, Lucca, Molly, Sophia, James, Weston, and Ruby.

Albert will be remembered as a devoted family man, a hardworking provider, and a pillar of strength whose legacy lives on through the family he loved so deeply.

Visitation will be Friday, March 27, 2026, 10:30am until the time of Funeral Mass at 11am at Our Lady of the Wayside Church, 434 W. Park Street, Arlington Heights, IL 60005. Interment will be private. Immediately following the Mass, family and friends are cordially invited to gather at Palm Court Restaurant, 1912 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights, IL for a luncheon in honor or Albert.