Edward William Alberty

Edward William Alberty peacefully passed away from a short illness on Sunday, August 27, 2023 - just days away from celebrating his 92nd birthday. He was born on September 15, 1931, to Pauline and Edmound Lentz in Cleveland, Ohio. Following his parents' divorce, his mother remarried John Alberty and Ed was adopted at age five.
In 1949, Ed graduated from Independence High School in Independence, Ohio, where he was the star basketball player and made All-County. He attended Kent State University and became a member of the Phi Gamma Theta fraternity. Drafted by the Army in 1951, he was stationed in Germany during the reconstruction of Europe following World War II. After his military service, Ed returned to Cleveland and married his college sweetheart, Phyllis. They resided in Kent, Ohio, where he completed his bachelor's degree in business administration at Kent State University. They purchased their first home in Stow, Ohio, and raised four children. Over the years, Ed, Phyllis, and the children enjoyed camping vacations to many state and national parks.
Ed served as the executive director of Chambers of Commerce in Kent, Piqua, and Mansfield, Ohio. In 1975, the family moved to Lansing, Michigan, where he was executive director of the Chamber of Commerce until they relocated to Arizona in 1979. Ed continued his Chamber of Commerce and economic development work in Casa Grande and Scottsdale, Arizona. Later, he was an economic development consultant for various cities nationwide.
In 1993, Ed retired. With Phyllis at his side, Ed completed visiting all 50 states and enjoyed many European trips. Known for his quick wit, funny puns, and infectious laughter, Ed was everybody's friend.
The family would like to thank Hospice of the Valley for their dedication in providing comfort, care, and compassion to Ed and his family. The family also extends heartfelt thanks to friends and neighbors for their many years of companionship, kindness, and support.
Ed is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Phyllis; two sons, Eddie (Laurene) and David (Allyson); and two daughters, Jenny and Paula (Chris); three grandchildren (Samantha, Zack, and Katey); six great-grandchildren (Vivian, Harrison, Rosalyn, Ezekiel, Violett, and Iver); and their dog, Ruby.
Ed's life will be celebrated on October 8 from 2:06 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. at the Corona Village Clubhouse, 1212 North Juniper Drive, Chandler, Arizona 85226. In leau of flowers, the family wishes for contributions to be made in Ed's memory to Hospice of the Valley or The Salvation Army.