Remembering Bob Albarano, Co-Owner of Ralph J. Albarano & Sons Construction

The behind-the-scenes construction expert who helped build Altoona landmarks

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:20am

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A photorealistic studio still life featuring a hardhat, construction blueprints, and a vintage tape measure, conceptually representing the behind-the-scenes work of construction experts like Bob Albarano who helped build landmarks in the Altoona area.The unsung construction experts who shape a community's built environment are remembered through the tools of their trade.Lakemont Today

Bob Albarano, the co-owner of the construction firm Ralph J. Albarano & Sons Inc., passed away in March at the age of 75. Though he often stayed out of the spotlight, Albarano played a vital role in the company's success, serving as the on-site leader and construction expert who ensured every project met the highest standards. He was remembered by colleagues for his talent, dedication, and commitment to quality work, including on high-profile local projects like the Blair County Ballpark and Lights on the Lake at Lakemont Park.

Why it matters

The Albarano brothers' construction firm was a fixture in the Altoona area for decades, contributing to the development of major landmarks and community attractions. Bob Albarano's passing marks the end of an era for the family business and highlights the important behind-the-scenes work of construction experts who help shape the built environment of a local community.

The details

As the on-site leader for Ralph J. Albarano & Sons, Bob Albarano was trusted by clients to handle the critical details and ensure quality on every construction project. He was described as a "true construction expert" who was committed to excellence. Some of the firm's most notable accomplishments included the Blair County Ballpark (now Peoples Natural Gas Field) and the neighboring parking garage, as well as the annual Lights on the Lake holiday display at Lakemont Park, which Albarano personally oversaw.

  • Bob Albarano passed away in March 2026 at the age of 75.
  • His brother Ralph Albarano Jr. died in July 2025.

The players

Ralph J. Albarano & Sons Inc.

A construction business that was co-owned by brothers Bob and Ralph Albarano Jr. and played a key role in building landmarks and attractions in the Altoona area.

Bob Albarano

The co-owner of Ralph J. Albarano & Sons Inc. who served as the on-site leader and construction expert, ensuring quality work on every project.

Ralph Albarano Jr.

The co-owner of Ralph J. Albarano & Sons Inc. who was more the public face of the business, while Bob handled the day-to-day construction work.

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What they’re saying

“While Ralph was more of the public face of the business, Bob was the person business owners trusted with the details that mattered on the job site. Any business owner who worked with Albarano likely worked closely with Bob.”

— Andrea Cohen, President of Blair Companies Real Estate and Lakemont Park

“He was an outstanding individual, but he probably was not as well-known in the community as Ralph.”

— Marty Marasco, Retired President/CEO of Altoona Blair County Development Corporation

“He wanted everyone to think he was an SOB, but he was one of the kindest, gentlest men I had ever known.”

— Barry Kumpf, Former General Manager of Lakemont Park

The takeaway

Bob Albarano's legacy serves as a reminder of the unsung heroes behind the construction industry who work tirelessly to bring community visions to life, even if they don't always get the public recognition. His dedication to quality and attention to detail helped shape the Altoona area for decades.