Albert Kalell, 55, of Cedar Rapids, passed away Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, at St Luke’s Hospital.

Albert was born March 24, 1957, in Cedar Rapids, to Sine Kalell and Lucille (Aossey) Barber. Albert graduated from Washington High School in 1975. Albert was a member of Laborers Local 43 for many years.

Albert is survived by his mother, Lucille, and stepfather, Yvonne Barber; sister, Debbie Wilt (Mike); his daughter, Lydia; and grandson, Camden.

He was preceded in death by his father; grandparents, Albert and Emney Kalell and Abdoo and Hacebe Aossey; an aunt, uncles and cousins.

Albert was an avid fisherman, hunter and overall sportsman. He loved his family and many friends. Albert had a way with children. They all smiled when Uncle Al was around. He helped guide many young men in life and coached boxing. Albert was an adventurer, he traveled at the drop of a hat. He was the true spirit of “A Will To Live” and made the most courageous fight with his illness right to the very last second.

He touched many lives and will be missed by all that knew him.

In lieu of flowers, you can make a donation in Albert’s name to a children’s charity of your choice or the American Kidney Foundation.

Services will be 2 p.m. Monday, Jan. 14, at Cedar Memorial Westside Chapel, with burial to follow at the Islamic Cemetery.

Please leave a message or tribute to the family on the Web page, www.cedarmemorial.com under Obituaries.

Published Jan. 13, 2013 in The Gazette