Obituary of William H. Alexander

North Creek: William H. Alexander, 77, of Snugsboro Place, passed away, Sunday, January 18, 2009 in West Palm Beach, FL, following a courageous battle with cancer. Born March 24, 1931 in North Creek, he was the third son of Guy and Blanche (Pereau) Alexander, who eventually completed their family of six. During his North Creek high school years, Bill could be found competing in various down hill events at the local Ski Bowl. After graduating high school, he completed his studies at Potsdam State University, earning his Bachelors and Masters Degrees in 1952. Bill met the love of his life, Roxane St. Mary, an Eastern Airlines Stewardess and the couple wed on Aug. 21, 1954. He went on to complete his Doctoral studies in education, receiving his Ed.D from Columbia University in 1968. Accepting a position as a school administrator with the South Lewis Central School System in Lewis County, Bill and Roxane settled in Lyons Falls and raised their family of six children, three boys and three girls. In the mid 1980's, Bill decided to convert the family hunting camp on Oven Mt. Rd in North Creek into his retirement home. His vision of a great Adirondack lodge, with its pond, creek, and his "smoke house" were but a few of the nuances required to complete his dream home for his beloved wife, Roxane. They enjoyed their summers in North Creek while wintering in West Palm Beach. Bill was no stranger to adversity. He was continually being challenged throughout his life with health issues that only made him stronger and wiser. It’s fair to say, this cat had nine lives. He was an extraordinary example of unmitigated character and thoughtfulness, a most excellent father and his genuine friendship had a consistently profound effect on anyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Everyone looked forward to receiving one of Bill's "happy grams" in the mail, leaving many diligently trying to decipher his rather unique handwriting. While residing in Lewis County, Bill was an Elder at the Forest Presbyterian Church in Lyons Falls. He also was an active Free and Accepted Mason and held offices in the Lyons Falls Lions Club. In Florida, he was a faithful attendee at the First Presbyterian Church of Palm Beach Gardens. He joins his departed compadres, Chuck Severance, Carson Bunker, Harold Prouty and Sarge Van Keuren within the "eternal happy hunting ground". Besides his parents, his brothers, Bob, Tom and his nephew, Alex have all gone before him. He leaves behind his wife of 54 years, Roxane J. Alexander; his six children, Billie Jean Kinney and her husband, John of Syracuse; Guy Alexander and his wife, Marlene of Santa Maria, CA; John Alexander and his wife, Lisa of Warrensburg; Alison Hobin and her husband, Shawn of Liverpool; Suzanne Alexander of Marcellus and Glyn Alexander of Rehoboth Beach, DE; his cherished grandchildren: Jonathan, David, Billy, Chad, Jaclyn, Scott, Ashley, Megan, Alexandra, Caroline and Roxana; his siblings, Jack Alexander and his wife, Hilda; Joe Alexander and his wife, Donna; Nancy Choppa and her husband, Mickey; his brother in law, Ronnie St. Mary and his wife, Marlene; and numerous nieces and nephews. Bill requested that his earthly remains be cremated. A celebration of this outstanding man's life will be held 11 am, Saturday, June 20 at the Tannery Pond Community Center, Main Street, North Creek with the Rev. Robert Herrmann, pastor of the Thurman Baptist Church officiating. A reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorials take the form of donations to Hospice. Please visit www.alexanderfuneralhomes.com for online guestbook and condolences.