Albert W. Ferns Jr.

COLEBROOK – Albert W. Ferns, Jr. 84, of Colebrook, died on Friday afternoon, Feb. 20, 2026, at the Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital in Colebrook with his beloved wife, sons and grandchildren by his side.

He was born on Dec. 13, 1941, in North Attleboro, Mass., the only son to the late Albert W. and Gertrude (Lumnah) Ferns.

Known to most as "Al" or "Butch," he lived a full and meaningful 84 years marked by service, dedication, and deep love for his family and community. A graduate of Bryant University with a degree in Accounting, Al built a strong career rooted in integrity and hard work. He proudly served in the United States Air Force, carrying that discipline and leadership into his civilian life. Over the years, he worked as an accountant for The Foxboro Company, later at Ethan Allen, and at The Balsams Grand Resort, earning the respect of colleagues for his dedication and professionalism.

Al was deeply committed to his community of Colebrook. He served as Director of the Colebrook Downtown Development Association, Trustee of Trust Funds for the town, a member of Kiwanis International, a board member for Two Rivers Ride for Cancer, and was a proud member of the American Legion. For every Memorial Day, he distributed American flags at the local cemeteries to honor those who served. He also quietly gave back in personal ways, providing complimentary rides home from the hospital for discharged patients and transportation for local cancer patients traveling to treatment centers, and he volunteered some of his time at the Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital. These acts of kindness were just part of who he was.

Al loved spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who brought him endless pride and joy. He used to travel all over the country for years, and always enjoyed a long road trip or a simple cruise. He rarely missed his morning trips to Dunkin' Donuts, where he enjoyed joking with the staff who knew him well. He was incredibly proud of being 46 years sober at the time of his passing, a milestone that meant so much to him and his family. He also devoted countless hours to researching and preserving the family genealogy, something he treasured deeply. All of these were among his greatest accomplishments, which he was very proud of-along with many more that reflected a life lived with purpose, generosity, and heart.

Al is survived by his beloved wife, Rosemary Mulliken of Colebrook; his four sons, Jason (Carole) Ferns of Colebrook, Brian (Katie) Ferns of Bedford, N.H., Stephen (Jaline) Mulliken of Monroe, N.H., and Jeff (Katie) Howe of Manchester, N.H.; three sisters, Florence Deslauriers of Redding, Calif., Helen Bennett of Rochester, N.Y., and Lois Whittemore of Claremont, N.H.; seven grandchildren, Alexis Ferns, Ariel Howe, Joshua Chalfant, Abigail Ferns, Gabrielle Howe, Clara Howe and Cooper Ferns; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

He is predeceased by three sisters: Betty Gendreau, Evelyn Goudreau and Louise Fredette.

There are no public calling hours. A graveside interment service with military honors will be later in the year at the Colebrook Village Cemetery, of which notice will be given.

Expressions of sympathy in memory of Al may be made to the Two Rivers Relief for Cancer, Inc., P.O. Box 376, Colebrook, NH 03576.

Condolences may be offered to the family on-line by going to www.jenkinsnewman.com.

Arrangements are entrusted to the care of Jenkins & Newman Funeral Home in Colebrook.