Alex Santiago Alicea

Alex Santiago Alicea, 49, of Hutchinson, KS, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2020, surrounded by his wife and sons.

Husband. Father. “Chacho.“ Son. Friend. Army Specialist. Leader. Volunteer.

One beloved man, who served numerous roles to touch the lives of so many.

Alex was born in Rio Piedras, PR, on April 27, 1970, to Carmen Alicea and Confesor Santiago. He spent most of his childhood in Puerto Rico, before moving around the United States, living in New York, Texas, and Colorado.

He met and married his high school sweetheart Tanya in Colorado, where he also graduated from Fountain-Fort Carson High School. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1988, serving as a private in the 101st Aviation Regiment and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, and a specialist, crew chief, and technical inspector in the 236th Medical Company. Alex earned two Bronze Star awards while serving in combat missions, multiple commendation medals, the Kuwait Liberation medal for Operation Desert Storm, and many other decorations for his exemplary service.

Alex was a devoted husband to Tanya and father to three sons, Andre, Alex, and Anthony, eventually retiring from the army in 1996 to enjoy more time with them. After traveling the world with his family, living in Germany, North Carolina, Georgia, and more, he moved to Kansas and began a 20-year career with Southwest and Associates. Alex enjoyed working as plant manager, serving as a mentor, problem solver, and respected leader. Artistic and innovative, he loved using his talents to help others succeed.

Alex volunteered for the Burrton Fire Department. When he was not spending his time proudly helping his community, Alex could be found cheering on the sidelines of his sons’ running events and basketball games, working in his garage rebuilding trucks, or cooking for his family.

He will be so deeply missed by his family, co-workers, friends, and all who knew him.

Alex was preceded in death by his parents Carmen Alicea and Confesor Santiago. He is survived by his wife and best friend Tanya Santiago (Hutchinson) of 35 years; three sons Andre Santiago (Lee’s Summit, MO) and his wife Jennifer, Alex Santiago (Springfield, MO) and his wife Lydia, and Anthony Santiago (Halstead) and his wife Kinley; aunt Maria Rivera (Clarksville, TN); and mother-in-law Stella Whitney (Newton). Alex adored his seven grandchildren: Aiden, Adalyn, and Alexis Santiago; Jonah, Asa, and August Santiago; and Olivia Santiago.

Funeral services are scheduled for February 25, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. at Newton Christian Church (210 Southport Dr, Newton, KS 67114). In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to No Stomach for Cancer. (nostomachforcancer.org)