Canandaigua - Shirley Kohl Albert, age 88, passed away on February 8, 2026. She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Donald Albert; children, Daniel (Amy) Albert, David (Connie) Albert, Deborah (John) Singer, and Darlene Collins (Kevin Manning); grandchildren, Amanda Collins, Josh Albert, Nikki Albert, and Cody Singer; and great-grandchild, Colton. She was predeceased by her parents, Andrew and Thelma Kohl; and son-in-law, William Udick.
Shirley grew up in Mendon, NY, and attended RIT. She was a bookkeeper with Trenholm East Inn in Farmington for many years and, in later years, enjoyed working for Dann Auctioneers and Auction It 1st. She found her greatest joy in supporting her family and those around her. Shirley was nurturing and kind, always putting the needs of others before her own. In the last few years, after a stroke slowed her down, Shirley’s family and friends had the opportunity to return the same love and support she had always so generously given to others.
Family was at the heart of Shirley’s world. She especially cherished the holidays, when her home would fill with laughter and the warmth of family gatherings. Her glorious beans were a highlight at every picnic and get-together, and she showed her love by sharing the bounty of her vegetable garden and her homemade baked goods, especially her breads. Her canned fruits, vegetables, and sauces were treasured gifts to family.
Shirley enjoyed many years camping, especially at the New York State Steam Pageant, where she was a lifetime member. She contributed to a variety of volunteer work at the Steam Pageant for many years. She also took time to enjoy participating in the “Powder Puff,” which was the tractor pulls for women. In her earlier years, she and Donald were in many different bowling leagues for couples.
Shirley never complained, even as she aged and faced new challenges. She was known for her resilient spirit, often responding to setbacks with a simple “oh well” before moving on. Shirley also had a lifelong love of animals, welcoming many dogs and cats into her home over the years. After her stroke, she found comfort and companionship in her beloved cats, enjoying their presence and affection. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, whose gentle nature and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Per Shirley’s wishes, there will be no services. Interment will be in Mendon Center Cemetery, Mendon. Memorial contributions may be made to Ontario County Humane Society, 2976 County Road 48, Canandaigua, NY 14424, or online at www.ontariocountyhumanesociety.org. Arrangements are by Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home, Inc., Canandaigua. Condolences may be offered at www.johnsonkennedy.com.