MICHAEL ALEXANDER

June 5, 1945 – October 15, 2022

Robert Michael (“Mike”) Alexander, 77, went to be with his Lord Jesus on October 15, 2022. After a long-fought and courageous battle with illness, Mike died at home, peacefully in his sleep, with his loving family at his side.

Mike was born to Robert and Jean Alexander, and raised with his sister, Kim, in Holden, MO. He spent much of his time with his beloved grandparents O.T. and Hazel Miller. After serving in the Air Force, he began his life-long career as an educator with degrees in Education and Ministry. In college, he met and married Judy, the heart of his life and happiness for the next 56 years.

Mike was a teacher and administrator at Crestwood Elementary, Messiah Lutheran School, St. Louis and Immanuel Lutheran School, Perryville. He finished out his career at the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education in the Leadership Academy and then as the Director of Federal Programs.

Mike was an adored father to his two children, John and Cara. Throughout his life he was a beloved guide, confidant, friend and support to them, and happily welcomed John’s wife, Valerie, and Cara’s husband, Chris, into the family. The true lights of his life were his grandchildren, Nathaniel, Ian, Hannah, Jude, and Cole. “Poppy” was always there with a sympathetic ear, a story, plenty of jokes, a fishing pole, and a hug.

Mike was also a true renaissance man, with an eclectic array of gifts and talents, which he used in the service of others. He could fix anything, and enjoyed projects of all kinds. He had a deep love of music and a beautiful tenor voice. He was also gifted with a keen and unforgettable wit and sense of humor, and a presence that instantly put persons at their ease.

Above all was Mike’s faith in his Lord and Savior Jesus, which he expressed in raising a strong Christian family, in the living witness of his faith to family and friends, and in his long and varied service to his church congregations.

An informal visitation was held Thursday, October 20, at Campus Lutheran Church, 304 S. College Ave., Columbia, from 4 to 7 p.m. A further visitation was held at Campus Lutheran on Friday, October 21, from 10-11 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11 a.m.

Memorial donations may be made to Campus Lutheran Church, 304 S. College Avenue, Columbia, MO 65203.