Elmer Lester Allbee

Elmer Lester Allbee

Elmer Lester Allbee, 75, of Karns City, a highly decorated United States Army Vietnam veteran, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

  Born on November 20, 1950, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Lester James and Clara Althea (Stewart) Allbee. Elmer’s life was defined by his selfless heart, unbreakable determination, and unwavering love for his family. 

  At the age of 16, Elmer enlisted in the United States Army. During the Vietnam War, he served as an automatic weapons crewman, where he operated a quad .50 on an M42 Duster. He bravely cleared Highway 1 and Highway 9 while attached to the Third Marine Division. Elmer was awarded a National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal. His courage and bravery during the Vietnam War earned him four Bronze Stars, two featuring the “V” device for valor. Elmer carried this commitment of duty forward, dedicating another 22 years to the U.S. Army Reserves before retiring as a Staff Sergeant in 2006. Elmer also retired from the United States Post Office after many years of dedicated service in Butler, Pa.

  Elmer married his loving wife, Maggie, on September 20, 1970, and together they shared nearly 56 years of marriage.

  Well known for his quick wit, handsome smile, and signature railroad hat, Elmer also served his community by coaching and supporting many youth sports programs throughout the years. Elmer was a life member of the VFW and a member of the, Brady’s Bend American Legion Post 488. He was a familiar sight around town back in the day in his old, rusty blue Ford truck that he stubbornly refused to part with for years. Elmer enjoyed the simple pleasures in life—spending time outdoors, listening to classic rock music, enjoying a cold Iron City beer, and indulging in his favorite treat, chocolate. Above all else, he deeply treasured and loved his family.

  Elmer is survived by his beloved wife, Maggie, his children Eric Allbee of Karns City, PA, Brian Allbee and his wife Sandy of Madison, AL, and Sara Friters and her husband Joshua of Titusville, PA. He was a proud and devoted grandfather, affectionately known as "Pap”, to Jacob Friters, Emma Friters, Maddy Allbee, and Alexander Allbee. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.

  The Allbee family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the nurses and staff at the Butler VA Community Living Center for their years of compassion, love, and support.

Friends will be received at the Hile Funeral Home of Chicora, 339 Chicora Fenelton Rd., Chicora, from 1- 7 p.m. Wednesday, August 12, 2026.  A funeral service will follow at 7 p.m. with Pastor Paul DeBacco of Crisswell Bible Baptist Church, officiating. The interment with military honors will be at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies in Bridgeville. 

Memorial contributions may be made to the VA Butler Health Care, Attn: Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) / Voluntary Services, 353 N. Duffy Road, Butler, PA 16001, with note on memo CLC Recreation Therapy / Activities Fund.

Condolences may be sent by visiting www.hilefh.com.