In his 40s, Alexander met Josephine Saltonstall DuBois, a widow with four young boys. They wed and he became a stepfather to Parker Converse, Courtland Converse, Christopher Converse and Jonathan Converse - and stepping into that role was a challenging task.  Alexander and "Joey" went on to have one child, Heather Hetzeck Nye. Despite divorcing after 17 years of marriage, they were able to develop a friendship and respect for one another that lasted through the rest of his life. He never remarried. Alexander and his stepsons also developed a deep appreciation, love and respect for each other.

Alexander was a lifelong caregiver to all those he loved.  He notably cared for his mother in his home in Fall River, Massachusetts in her last few years of life. He moved to Maryland in 2012 to be closer to his daughter, Heather, and her family. In addition to Heather, he also had a special relationship with his granddaughter Stella Nye, who adored him, as well as with his son in law, Mike Nye.

He was determined to provide for his family and give them the life he felt they deserved. His family meant more to him than anything else in the world. He was unendingly proud of his children and grandchildren and always tried his best to support them. His generosity was extraordinary, in the form of material gifts as well as with his time and energy.

Alexander was always a passionate tennis player - even in his late 80s - and could often be found giving impromptu lessons at Annapolis' public courts. He dedicated time to securing a grant a few years ago to fund the improvement of Annapolis' public tennis courts. He took a dislike to pickleball when it threatened securing the grant he had worked so hard for and went door to door, with his walker, campaigning against the use of the tennis courts for pickleball. He took great pride in nominating a dear friend and former tennis partner, Vic Braden, to the Tennis Hall of Fame; and much to his delight, Alexander was able to attend Vic's enshrinement ceremony in 2017. Many at that ceremony knew Alexander and treated him with awe because of his accomplishments.

Anyone familiar with Alexander knew that he was the most loving father and grandfather a family could ask for. He was humble, gentle, kind, and optimistic. His sense of humor was almost always present, and occasionally got him into trouble. He was known to dissolve into teary laughter before he could deliver his punchlines - occasionally ejecting his dentures as he howled in delight. He was very intelligent and had a clear recall of events, while also having the ability to learn new skills even in his advanced age. He was doggedly independent up until his last few months, and that spark kept him alive for 94 years.

There will be a celebration of life and burial in Boyne Falls, Michigan at St. Augustine Church on Thursday, May 18.  Please contact the family if you would like to attend.