Albert Laurey

March 19, 1946 – January 22, 2025

It is with unimaginable sorrow that we announce the passing of Albert Laurey, 78, of Lake Arrowhead, California. He joined his friends and family on January 22nd, 2025. Albert was born on March 19th of 1946, or as he liked to say, the day the swallows return to San Juan Capistrano, California —a beautiful metaphor for the joy he brought to those around him. He was an immigrant from the Netherlands and was born in The Hauge to Jules and Femia Laurey. While on the ship to California, he learned to walk, and once on land, his family embraced and fused American culture with their own while owning a card and party shop in the San Fernando Valley. After meeting his late wife, Donna S. Laurey, he became a citizen to win her father’s approval and her hand in marriage. He was immensely proud of both things.

Albert was a loving son, brother, husband, father, uncle and Grandaddy. He was a collector of many things, and shared that love, specifically coins, baseball, and movies with his grandchildren. He loved history and movies and was known for his candid views and passionate advocacy for what was right. Albert worked at General Motors from 1964 to 2002 and was the definition of loyalty. In his later years at the company, he was an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) representative, providing unwavering support and care to colleagues in times of need. His dedication to helping others navigate challenges with compassion and understanding was a true reflection of his generous spirit and commitment to making a difference in the lives of those around him. Outside of work, Albert was a counselor to anyone who needed him, no matter the time or place, he was there to listen. He loved his family, watching the weather, his dog Ci Ci and his mountain community in Lake Arrowhead, California.

Albert Laurey is survived by his son Donald Laurey, daughter in law, Bridget (Small) Laurey, daughter, Marie (Laurey) McHaffie, and son in law, Doyle McHaffie III. He had four grandchildren, Doyle McHaffie IV, Austin Laurey, Zachary Laurey, and Hope (McHaffie) Wood. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jules and Femia Laurey, his daughter Janette Laurey, and his loving wife Donna S. Laurey, whom we know he is thrilled to see again. A private service will be held at a later date, and he will be placed to rest at Pierce Brother’s Memorial Cemetery in Westwood, California. He will be profoundly missed for his quirky stories, love of Rock and Roll, eccentric anecdotes, old movies, and his unwavering love. Forever in our hearts, rest in peace, Uncle Albert, Big Al, Grandaddy, Grandpa, Dad.