Edsel Ford Albright

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Edsel Ford Albright, 87, who passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.

Born on January 5, 1938 in Detroit, MI, Edsel lived a full life of kindness and devotion to his family. He was the youngest son of Ira and Ima Albright and brother of Herbert, Forrest “Woody” and Helen.

After graduating from Cass Tech H.S. in 1956, Edsel attended Trade School and became a Journeyman Sheet Metal Worker. In the course of his career, he helped to build some of the most iconic buildings in Detroit and Chicago. Later becoming one of the most respected Air Balancers in the state, balancing the air flow of the Renaissance Center, Joe Louis Arena and every hospital in the metro Detroit area amongst others. He finished his career as a Construction Manager, designing and building paint booths, mist and dust collectors and indoor air quality systems for the automotive industry. Edsel was a proud, lifetime member of the Sheet Metal Workers Local 80 Union. On many weekends, you would find Edsel helping his family and friends installing new furnaces and air conditioners at their homes.

Edsel enjoyed many activities growing up, including biking, boxing, basketball and his favorite, ballroom dancing. His love of dancing would lead him to becoming a ballroom dance instructor.

It was on the dance floor where he would meet the love of his life, Joan Malek, daughter of John and Tillie Malek. They would marry in 1961 and start their life of 63 years together in Warren, MI. Together they would become champion ball room dancers and continue to teach ballroom dancing in the basement of their home. Together they raised two children, Kimberly and Adam, eventually moving to Sterling Heights, MI. Edsel and Joan loved to travel the world, with their favorite destination being Mexico, where they enjoyed many vacations with family and friends. Together with his wife, Edsel enjoyed helping to raise their three grandchildren Anthony, Amber and Aydan. More than anything he loved to attend his children’s and grandchildren's games, competitions, and family events.

Edsel followed in the footsteps of his two brothers, Herbert (KIA) and Woody, who fought in WWII and enlisted in the Army National Guard in 1961. He served his country for six years, being Honorably discharged from the Army in 1966 and spending another year in the U.S. Army Reserves until 1967. He finished his service with a rank of SP4 E4, qualifying for the specialist rank as an M-1 rifle expert.

Edsel leaves behind a legacy of faith, kindness, laughter and generosity that will live on in the hearts of everyone who knew him. Although his absence will be felt by many, his memory will remain a source of comfort, love and kindness.

A Memorial Service will be held on April 26th, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Jane Frances de Chantal Catholic Church located at 38750 Ryan Road Sterling Heights, MI 48310.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make a donation in Edsel’s name to the American Heart Association at https://www.heart.org/?form=FUNQCSERKQD .