Albert R. Cournoyer

1944-2025

Albert R. Cournoyer, 81, passed away August 8, 2025 in his home on Webster Lake, surrounded by family. Albert was one of twelve born to Aime and Beatrice (Maynard) Cournoyer. Raised on a cattle farm on Fiske Hill in Sturbridge, Albert learned the value of hard work early in life.

Mr. Cournoyer was well-known in the hospitality industry, as he dedicated almost 50 years to the Publick House in Sturbridge, MA. As the Executive Chef and Innkeeper, he poured his creativity and pride into every dish and every detail. He loved a challenge and thrived in bringing people together around good food and warm hospitality. Albert was also a member of the Board of Directors of Old Sturbridge Village. Through the years, he received recognition for his accomplishments from his community, industry leaders, and government officials. Above all, he was an excellent mentor in both his professional life and as a father figure to many.

For 62 years, Albert shared his life with his beloved wife, Barbara (Dembinski). Together, they raised four of Albert's brothers and three sons of their own. He built a family legacy rooted in adventure, generosity, and love. Albert was very creative; if he could imagine it, he would do it. He took pride in his finished products—whether it was his vacation home in Vermont or the Yule Log celebration at the Publick House. Albert faced each day with purpose and drive, ensuring his loved ones would always have a strong foundation to stand on.

Albert's life was a testament to perseverance, dedication, and love. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched—through his family, his work, and the traditions he so carefully nurtured.

In addition to his wife, Albert is survived by three sons: Keith Cournoyer of Thompson, Ken Cournoyer of Pomfret, and Jeffrey Cournoyer and his wife Cathy of Dudley; his siblings: Donald Cournoyer of Putnam, George Cournoyer and Marget Biron of Micco, FL, and Aime Cournoyer of Brookfield; and his six grandchildren: Kenzie, Ross, Alexi, Drew, Brenden, and Kelly. He was predeceased by seven of his brothers: Ronald, Michael, Richard, Roger, Robert, David, and Raymond Cournoyer. He is also survived by a large extended family and friends that will greatly miss him. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial for Albert on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 11:00AM at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 16 E. Main St., Webster. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Shaw-Majercik Funeral Home & Cremation, 48 School St., Webster, MA 01570. For memorial guestbook please visit https://www.shaw-majercik.com/