Albert Ames

Albert Ames passed away at his home on October 21, 2025, at the age of 95. Albert was born and raised in LaPorte, Ind., He had two brothers and one sister, all of whom have passed. After high school, Al worked in retail in Illinois and taught in a technical school. He had vacationed for years in Rhinelander and Three Lakes and when fate stepped in Al was ready to seize the opportunity for a different life.

It started in 1964 when Al and a friend won the Irish Sweepstakes. Al and the friend agreed to split the winnings, and they purchased Berry Lane Cottages on Gun Lock Lake. Shortly after moving to Wisconsin, they purchased the Belle Isle and the building that housed it. Al became the bar manager, and his friend managed the Landmark Hotel above the bar.

In 1969, Al and his partner sold the bar and the building but continued to live at the cottages until 1999. They both cared for an aging parent, who also lived at the cottages with them.

Al took a position at the hospital as a purchasing agent, a job he held for eight years. When the hospital moved into a new building, Al then left his position at the hospital and started his final career as a painting contractor until he finally hung up his brush at 90. Al also volunteered three days a week at Saint Matthias Thrift Shop. Al started his volunteer work in the spring of 1975, shortly after the thrift shop opened.

Al is survived by six nephews, two nieces and several great-nephews and nieces and one great-great-nephew.

A service for Albert Ames will be held at the St. Matthias Church on Nov. 8, at 11 a.m. with a reception following.

In lieu of flowers, Al requested that memorial gifts be donated to the St. Matthias Church. P.O. 936, Minocqua, WI 54548. Bolger Funeral Home is assisting the family, www.bolgerfuneral.com for condolences.