Eugene Albani

Eugene "Gene" Albani of Warren passed away on Sunday February 16, 2025 at Washington Square Nursing Home, following a period of declining health. He was 94 years old.
The youngest of nine children, Gene was born on July 23, 1930, in Masontown, Pennsylvania, to Italian immigrants Joseph and Josephine Albani, who came to the United States seeking a better life for their family. Gene grew up during the depression and then witnessed his older brothers going off to fight in World War II. Tragically, his brother, August, was killed during the Battle of Remagen when the bridge he was protecting from the Nazi's collapsed. Inspired by his brother's sacrifice, Gene enlisted in the United States Air Force after graduating from German Township High School in 1948. Gene served four years, including during the Korean War, working as an engine mechanic. Upon the completion of his commitment, Gene joined the Air Force Reserves where he became the 910th consolidated aircraft maintenance squad leader and was also the Chief Enlisted Advisor for the Air Base. Gene retired as a Senior Chief Master Sergeant in 1990.
Gene was married to Julia Ewanick for 67 years until her passing in 2021. Lifelong friends, Gene and Julia grew up steps from each other and consummated their friendship with marriage vows on September 11, 1953. They started their family in Masontown before moving to Warren in 1959. Gene was now working full-time at the United States Air Force Base in Vienna as an airplane mechanic. Eventually, Gene was certified as a mechanical and materials specialist, became the Aircraft Engine Mechanic Foreman, and retired in 1985 with the title of Propulsion Superintendent.
Gene was passionate about his job, but his greatest joy came from his family. He and Julia were the proud parents of six children. Despite juggling two jobs, Gene always found time to coach Little League, take the kids to swim and music lessons, attend Pirate or Indians baseball games and even go on a summer vacation. Gene loved to bowl and garden, was handy around the house and always seemed to pick up an odd job helping out a neighbor, friend or family member. Gene and Julia were both children of immigrants, and together, with their family, they truly lived the American dream.
In retirement, Gene still spent plenty of time at the Air Base. He loved working out in the gym, going to Super Bowl parties, watching the air shows or simply socializing with his friends. For 30 years, one of his favorite activities was going out for breakfast with his Air Base buddies, Norm and John. Gene loved his job, his country, and most importantly, his wife, friends and family.
Gene is survived by his children Mark Albani of Champion, Lisa Albani of Champion, Eugene (MaryAnn) Albani of Howland, and Maryann (Scott) Jones of Bristolville. He also leaves behind a daughter-in-law, Leslie Albani of Warren; sister-in-law, Bonnie Ewanick of Pittsburgh, Pa.; 14 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; and many nephews and nieces.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his six brothers, Angelo, Paul, Louis, August, Pete and John; his sisters Agnes Cavalcante and Elizabeth Pavlovich; his wife Julia; and his sons Gerald and Gregory.
Family and friends may visit and pay tribute to Gene on Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 11 am to 12 noon at the Peter Rossi & Son Memorial Chapel of Warre, 1884 North Road NE.
A Funeral Service will follow at the funeral home at 12 noon, ending with Military Honors.
A private burial will be at a later date at All Souls Cemetery.
Gene's family would like to thank Trumbull County Mobile Meals, Clearview Lantern Assisted Living, Washington Square Healthcare and Patriot Hospice Care for their help and care during Gene's final years.
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