Clarence Alexander, 93, Algoma, passed away peacefully at home at 500 Bay Road, Algoma, on January 22nd, 2015.
He was born January 27, 1921 in Maplewood to the late Eugene and Mary (Engelbert) Alexander, and was the 7th of 12 children. He attended school in Maplewood and high school in Algoma. He married Anna Mae Schmeling on October 9, 1945. Anna Mae always says that she was 'schmeling' when she met him. Clarence served his country in the U.S. Army from April 1946 to May 1947. After his discharge, the couple settled in Milwaukee where Clarence worked for the Schroeder Hotel.
In 1953, Clarence and Anna Mae purchased Anna Mae's family farm in Algoma which they ran for 51 years, receiving a Century Farm award for continuous family ownership for over 100 years. The grandchildren have warm memories of rides on the tractor and playing in the haymow. Clarence also worked as a ship fitter at shipyards in Sturgeon Bay and Kewaunee. Clarence and Anna Mae wintered in Phoenix, Arizona for many years.
Clarence was a dedicated card player, with a great love for Sheepshead and poker and occasional casino visits. No family gathering was complete without a card game.
He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Anna Mae; 5 children: Robert Alexander, Rifle CO, Joe (Gail Karvonen) Alexander, Portland OR, Joan (Greg) Chaudoir, Sturgeon Bay, Chris (Peter Martin) Alexander, Saratoga Springs NY, and Helen (Matt Rickaby) Alexander, Algoma; 13 grandchildren: Scott, Jerimy, Tessa, Claire, Michael, Cherie, Katrina, Justin, Michelle, Elizabeth, Jennifer, Travis and Julie; 8 great-grandchildren: Brooke, Will, Nick, Zack, Ian, Brayden, Hazel, Brie and Evin; sister, Mary (Kenneth) Feld, and sister-in-law, Marion Schmeling. He was preceded in death by his son, James, and 10 siblings.
Friends may call at the Holy Name of Mary Catholic Church (St. Mary) in Maplewood Monday from 9:30-10:30 am for visitation, followed by a eulogy by the family at 10:30 and Mass of Christian Burial at 11 with Fr. Carl Schmitt officiating. Wiesner and Massart Funeral Home Algoma is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolence messages may be shared here .
The family would like to thank the staff at Bay Road and Unity Hospice for the wonderful care they provided.
