Mr. Alexander "Alex" Phillip Stirgwolt, of Winchester and Richmond, VA, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, November 23, 2024, after a long and difficult battle with CHD and diabetes. He was diagnosed at birth but remained strong and brave through numerous operations and complications, surpassing all expectations. Alex never let his illness define him, and always sought to lead a full and independent life, with bravery and conviction.

After Alex graduated from John Handley High School, he worked in different odd jobs, enjoying the variety of life and the thrill of learning new trades. By the time he was 30, he was adept in computer technology, classical cultures and mythology, gaming design, and car maintenance. He was an avid reader and gamer, and passionate about politics, government policy, mythology, fantasy, hero sagas, and quality time with his family and friends, whom he valued above all.

Alex met Lauren Olmsted in 2013 in Winchester while living as neighbors. They formed a loving blended family, as he lovingly cared for and helped raise Arianna and Holly as his own, later welcoming a son together, Julian Olmsted. They enjoyed quiet quality time at home and cultural excursions and explorations into DC or around the region, alone or with the children.

Alex is survived by his son, Julian Olmsted, stepdaughters, Arianna and Holly Schuster, and wife, Lauren Olmsted of Winchester; brother and sister-in-law Ian Stirgwolt and Melissa Diaz of California; mother and stepfather, Jennifer Stirgwolt and John Tourek of Richmond; grandmother Kathleen “Jill” Stirgwolt, of South Carolina; grandmother Mary Dale Jackson, of Winchester; uncle and aunt, Jonathan and Maria Jackson, and cousins Jake and Tyler Jackson, of Arlington; and uncle and aunt Ted and Heather Stirgwolt. He is predeceased by both grandfathers, and by his father, Phillip Stirgwolt, of Kentucky. We also want to acknowledge Alex’s best friends Charles “Mitch” Maliff, Maurice Coles, Andrew Roma, and Josh Leven. They stood by him and were incredibly important and supportive of Alex.

Anyone who knew Alex, knew that he was a bright and kind individual, always sweet, caring, and selfless. He firmly advocated for respect, love, and equal rights for everyone without distinction.

Alex left a hole in the lives he touched that cannot easily be filled, and will be missed beyond words, but just as he lived, he would wish others to live to the fullest, with strength and courage.

His memory will be honored in an intimate Celebration of Life in Arlington, VA, with close family.

However, we welcome everyone to share any photos, anecdotes, or other memories of Alex or his time here on his memorial page on EverLoved.com

Any contributions to assist with memorial expenses or to assist his family during this transition can also be made through his memorial page.

Send to someone

Share this obituary with others

https://everloved.com/life-of/alex-stirgwolt/obituary/

Copy