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)
My husband, Frank Worthington, spoke highly of you husband and father. Prayers be with you
RIP my brother. Love u. Anthony figueroa and family. Always remembered, never forgotten.
I miss you buddy. You had a bigger impact on me, than you could imagine. I’m lucky to have had the pleasure to know you, even if it was just a few short years. Such a humble, and kind person. I try and find peace knowing that you’ve moved onto a better place. Til Valhalla my friend. Rest easy, we have your six.
God bless you and your family! Our prayers are with you!
You will be truly missed my brother.
Sorry for your loss. He was a wonderful man, husband and father. Praying for you. Rose LaGree and Marvin McClanahan
Alex Santiago Alicea. My first love as aunty, my friend of many laughs, the first nephew who made my maternal feelings flourish; you will always be in my mind, my heart, and my prayers until the end of my life, when we meet again. I love you son of the soul!. My condolences to his wonderful wife, children, daughters-in-law, and adorable grandchildren. Rest In Peace, there is no more pain!.
Alex, you will be deeply missed, I enjoyed our many conversations and your joyful attitude and thoughtfulness. I am so thankful to know that you are in peace now with our father in heaven.
My prayers for you and your family. May you Rest In Peace.
Alex, I will miss you waving as you drove by the house, your sweet spirit, the way your family adored you and the kindness that you always showed to my family. You will be truly missed by us. Heaven gained a great man! Love you Alex!
You will be missed! Have your family in my prayers ?
I cant still believe it , and we just spoke the other day! We will miss you..
One of my true Best friends in the world. I’ll always remember us walking down the RR tracks in germany many miles away from post . We manned up and made it there by sunup for PT. Never forget those many flights we flew together side by side. Fly high my Brother! I love you always.
I had the honor and privilege to serve with Alex in the 236th Medical Company. We flew many lifesaving missions together. Alex displayed the definition of teamwork. His smile was contagious and his attitude lifted everyone no matter the situation. I will miss him.
Big brother I never thought I would be the little brother witnessing this. But I am here to let you know that family is family. I will never forget going camping with you and Norgie and Titi Mary and I was so homesick and you took me to the rest room at least 5 times before I had to go home! You were there for me then like a big bro would be. I will always love you big bro!!!! …I know you laughing….
Big bro I remember going camping and I got sick and you were up to take me to restroom like 5 times before I went home! I know you were like whoa…. and I’m sure you laughed! You were a great big bro in that moment. Family is forever no matter what!!!! Love you big bro.
So terribly sorry for your loss. Please know I’ll be praying for you all as you navigate this time together.
Tanya I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.