Albin Chitko Jr.

Albin Chitko Jr., age 83, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2026.

Born on March 31, 1942, in Chicago, Albin moved as a young child with his family to Armstrong

Creek, where his strong work ethic and love of the Northwoods first took root.

In May of 1961, Albin married the love of his life, Jean Fohrman. They were blessed with 62

years of marriage, building a life grounded in love, dedication, and family. Together they began

their life in Kenosha, where they started their family before returning north to Laona. There, they

raised their four children and created a home filled with warmth, hard work, and strong values.

Albin dedicated more than 50 years to Connor Forest Industries/Nicolet Hardwoods, serving as

Mill Manager. His extensive knowledge of the sawmill industry and steady leadership earned

him deep respect throughout his career. In addition to his full-time work, Albin also did saw filing

at night, a testament to his tireless work ethic and dedication to providing for his family. Even in

retirement, he could not stay away from the industry he loved. He proudly became the "Chief

Supervisor" for his sons at Chitko Bros. Lumber, generously sharing his experience and

guidance. His knowledge and passion for the sawmill trade were passed down to his sons and

grandsons, many of whom have made lifelong careers in the industry.

Beyond the mill, Albin had many talents and interests. He had a true green thumb and took

great pride in his gardens. He built many houses over the years, leaving a lasting mark on the

community through his craftsmanship. He especially cherished time spent with family at the

Chitko cabin, where countless memories were made.

Albin was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jean; his son, Jack; his brother, Fred; and his

parents, Albin Sr. and Loretta.

He is survived by his loving children: daughter Pam (Ed) Huber; son Rod (Shelly) Chitko; son

Cory (Tammy) Chitko; and daughter-in-law Cindy Chitko. He was a proud grandfather to Chad

(Amy) Neddo, Keith Neddo, Ashley (Dan) Eckert, Alicia Chitko, Coty (Allyssa) Chitko, Joshua

(Danielle) Chitko, Jacob (Amber) Chitko, Kaylin (Kyle) Kasten, Kyle Chitko, and Cody Gudowicz.

He was further blessed with 14 great-grandchildren. Albin is also survived by his sister, Patsy

Sharnek.

Above all, Albin will be remembered as a devoted husband of 62 years, father, grandfather,

great-grandfather, brother, mentor, and friend. His legacy lives on not only in the forests he

helped harvest and the mills he helped lead, but in the strong family he raised and the values he

instilled in generations to come.

He will be deeply missed and forever remembered. There will be a Celebration of Life honoring

Albin, for family and friends, on March 14, 2026 from 12pm until 4pm at the Armstrong Creek

Community Building.