Remembering Albert Kushinsky
Albert Kushinsky, a devoted husband, beloved father, grandfather and friend passed away peacefully on Monday, December 8, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was 86.
Born in Chicago, Illinois, on January 12, 1939, Al grew up learning the value of hard work and family loyalty in his father's small fruit store. He often shared stories of those humble beginnings; while his friends would order a hot dog with everything, Al would order a "bun with everything". A memory that perfectly captured his lifelong humor and modest nature.
Although Al had many accomplishments, his greatest pride was his family. He shared an extraordinary, enduring love with his wife, Lana, a partnership that began 68 years ago when she was 15 and he was 17. They had a beautiful and loving 64-year marriage. Together, they raised three sons: Mark Jeff and Michael. Al was a deeply devoted father to his three sons and a nurturing, hands-on presence in the lives of his six grandchildren. Al was kind-hearted and warm. Always making time to offer his advice or share a funny story about his life or work. His favorite place to be, was wherever his family and friends were.
As a young man, Al attended DePaul University in Chicago. He then went on to obtain his CPA license and later his law degree from DePaul College of Law. Drafted into the U.S. Army at age 23, he served honorably for two years. After his service, Al built a successful career, rising to National Tax Director for a large CPA firm. More than his achievements, he was known for his integrity, mentorship, and genuine care for his colleagues and clients. Al was an expert in his field, and his clients and colleagues often sought him out for advice.
Mid-career, Al made a defining choice that was driven not by ambition, but by love. Following an unforgettable family vacation, he and Lana recognized how deeply they were drawn to the mountains and wide-open spaces of Colorado. Al turned that dream into reality, leaving his high-profile Chicago position to move the family to Colorado Springs. There, he successfully built his own CPA firm, Strait Kushinsky & Company, which allowed the family to fully embrace the mountain lifestyle. He learned to love skiing, heading to their home in Breckenridge almost every winter weekend with Lana and the boys. He found immense joy and peace on the slopes and trails. After 15 years in Colorado, Al and Lana moved to Boston for yet another adventure before finally settling in Fountain Hills, Arizona.
Al had a passion for travel. He and Lana enjoyed months-long road trips in their RV cruising up the California coast or through the majestic Rockies, exploring Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and Banff, Canada. They loved hiking, biking, kayaking, and exploring with friends. Later in life, he would spend his summers exploring Switzerland and Italy, hiking nearly every day through the Alps. He also made frequent visits to Boston and Chicago, staying connected to family and friends.
Although Al slowed his work pace, he never fully retired, instead choosing to stay connected to the industry he knew so well and work with a handful of favorite clients literally until his final days.
Al simply loved being around people. Whether sharing stories with strangers he met during his travels or guiding young colleagues, he possessed an uncanny ability to make everyone he spoke to feel special. He enjoyed his family, friends, and the people he encountered daily.
He was a kind and generous friend, husband, father and grandfather, and will be missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife Lana, sons Mark (Jill) of Boston, Jeff (Jessica Jordan) of Phoenix and Michael (Donna) of Phoenix. He is also survived by his six grandchildren, Alec, Brittany, Cody, Jake, Andrew, and Abby.
Services
A celebration of Albert's life will be held in early 2026. Details regarding the date, time, and location will be shared by the family.
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