Albert J. Belanger

With deep love and sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Albert Joseph Belanger, affectionately known as “Big Al,” age 93, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, on Friday, August 28, 2026.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 44 years Marlene; his wife Doris; sister Faye Ursillo; and granddaughter Jennifer Childs.

In addition to his six children, Albert leaves behind his sister Carol Bishop; stepdaughter Patty Zajak; 10 beloved grandchildren: Alexis Reeder and Max Platt, Valerie Belanger, Jeremy Platt, Allan De Laurell and Debbie De Laurell, Sean Petersen, Nick Childs and Jennifer Childs, Paige Jones and Hillel (Tate) Petersen; 13 great-grandchildren: Wolff Reeder, Wilder Reeder; Wisdom De Laurell, Magdalena De Laurell, Makenzie Peterson, Kaya Petersen, Noemi Peterson, Hana Peterson, Leah Petersen, Piper Jone, Logan Jones, Brody Jones, Blair Jones, along with nine nieces and nephews.

He was born in 1933 on his grandmother’s kitchen table in North Andover, Massachusetts, to Albert Walter Belanger and Agnes Mullen Belanger.

He married Marlene in 1960. Marlene had four children—Margie De Laurell, Wayne Petersen, Rick Petersen, and Diana Kaye. Together, they happily welcomed two more children of their own, Lisa Corine Belanger Platt in 1961 and Albert James Belanger in 1962.

Al had a way of bringing his own special energy into every room. Whether he was telling a story, sharing a laugh, or enjoying a game of cards with family, he made life more interesting and fun. His presence will be deeply missed, but the memories he created will remain with us always.

Albert served in the Air Force for four years beginning in January 1953, where he received aircraft maintenance training. He went on to work for Douglas Aircraft and then continued a long and fulfilling career in the airline industry.

He spent 26 years with Continental Airlines, three years with Air Micronesia on the island of Guam, and 10 years in Memphis, Tennessee, with Federal Express.

During his airline career, he was involved in creating and participating in worldwide airline running races. These took him to such faraway places as South Africa, Germany, Australia, Belgium, and England, as well as to locations throughout the United States.

He retired in 1997 and moved to Las Vegas, where he met and married his second wife Doris Rockhill. He eventually settled in Rio Rancho, New Mexico.

Al and his family took many vacations, especially to Hawaii, one of his favorite places. He had a particular fondness for a good Hawaiian shirt. Marlene sewed many Hawaiian outfits for the two of them and their family. He appreciated clothes that reflected his personality and unique style and always stood out in a crowd.

Albert also enjoyed showtunes and the excitement of entertainment, especially Dean Martin Roasts. He loved playing cards with everyone, young and old, and enjoyed both the friendly competition and the conversation that came with a good game.

Music held a special place in Al’s heart. He loved performing in his singing group, The Show Stoppers, where he and Doris met - Al and Doris had a happy marriage where they enjoyed world travel and playing golf. In his later years, he especially enjoyed listening to the peaceful cello music of Stjepan Hauser.

He was a devoted sports fan, loving the Rams, the Celtics, and the Angels and following his teams with loyalty and enthusiasm. He encouraged all his sons in their ice hockey activities. Sports were not just games to him—they were part of the rhythm of life.

Al also loved golf, especially the camaraderie it offered and the time spent outdoors. Whether he was on the course or talking about it afterward, golf reflected his competitive spirit and his enjoyment of good company.

He loved history and could become completely absorbed in subjects such as the Civil War, Gettysburg, and ancient Rome. He enjoyed learning about the past and asking questions about historical events and the people who lived through them.

Albert’s faith was an important part of his life. He was devoted to his congregation, Bible study, meetings, and his love of Scripture. He especially enjoyed discussing the Bible and its prophecies.

He cared deeply about what he believed, wanted to understand it better, and enjoyed preparing for and participating in congregation meetings.

Albert lived fully. He was a responsible and loving member of his family, enjoyed the pleasures of life, and left behind a lasting impression of warmth and FUN. He told fabulous and corny jokes!

He will be remembered with love, respect, and gratitude for the joy he brought to family and friends.

Albert's Life Celebration will be held on Friday, October 16, 2026, at 10:00am at Reflections Chapel located at 2400 Washington St. NE, 87110. Albert will be laid to rest at 1:15pm at the Santa Fe National Cemetery located at 501 N Guadalupe St., 87501.

Dressy casual attire is suggested. In honor of Al’s favorite vacation spot, guests are warmly invited to add a Hawaiian touch to their attire, if they wish.