Albert Habhab

Albert graduated from Fort Dodge Senior High School in 1944, and shortly thereafter, he entered the Army as a Private with the 87th Infantry Division, where he fought in World War II and was awarded the Bronze Star.

Following the war, Albert entered the University of Iowa where he met his future wife, Janet Morse. He graduated with a law degree in 1952 and was united in marriage with Janet in 1953. Albert and Janet welcomed their son, Robert in 1959, and their daughter, Mary Beth, in 1962.

Albert established his law practice in 1952 and was a devoted public servant. Albert served as Mayor of Fort Dodge from 1960 through 1974 and was proud of his contributions to the construction of the airport terminal and firehouse and the creation of Williams Drive and Veterans Memorial Bridge, which was renamed in his honor on Veteran’s Day in 2023 and is now known as the Albert L. Habhab Veterans Memorial Bridge. Albert also served on the board of Friendship Haven for many years.

In 1975, Albert was appointed to serve as a District Court Judge for the Second Judicial District by Governor Robert Ray. In 1988, Albert was appointed to the Iowa Court of Appeals by Governor Terry Branstad, where he eventually became the Chief Judge and later served as a Senior Judge. Albert retired in 2003. Albert was held in high regard by his colleagues as hardworking, conscientious and fair.

Albert was preceded in death by his parents, Moses and Hadea Habhab, eight brothers and sisters, and Janet, his beloved wife of 70 years. Albert is survived by his children, Robert Habhab and Mary Beth (Troy) Burger, two grandchildren, Amanda (Brandon) Morcomb and Jamison Burger, and four great-grandchildren, Raven, Asher, Teagan and Orion.

A Celebration of Albert’s life will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 2, 2024, at the Tompkins Celebration Center at Friendship Haven. Interment services will follow with military honors presented by V.F.W. Post No. 1856 and the Iowa Army National Guard. Visitation is 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday at Gunderson Funeral Home & Cremation Services. Memorial contributions may be left to Friendship Haven.