Widower Who Donated Rockefeller Christmas Tree Watches Lighting Ceremony from Rehab

Earl Albert, recovering from a recent stroke, honored his late wife by donating the 74-foot Norway spruce they planted as newlyweds in 1967.

Earl Albert, who recently suffered a stroke, was unable to attend the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree lighting ceremony on December 4, 2024, but celebrated with a watch party at his rehab facility.
The 74-foot Norway spruce was planted by Earl and his late wife, Leslie, in 1967 at their Massachusetts home shortly after they were married.
Albert donated the tree in honor of Leslie, who passed away in 2020, describing the donation as one of the greatest honors of his life.
Albert's family attended the lighting ceremony in person, with his son Michael calling it a tribute to his mother’s loving and giving nature.
The widower has received thousands of holiday cards and well-wishes as he works toward recovery at Sunnyview Rehab Center.