Alexander John Ferguson Jr. Donora

With heavy hearts and tear-filled eyes, we mourn the passing of Alexander John Ferguson Jr. Alex was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend who touched the lives of many during his 75 years on this earth. He passed away on Feb. 25, 2023, at UPMC Shadyside in Pittsburgh, Pa., surrounded by his loving family after he bravely fought leukemia for the past year. Alexander, or “Fergie” as he was affectionately known, was born on April 12, 1947, in Pittsburgh, son of the late Alexander and Anne Kramer Ferguson. He lived a life of service, serving his country with honor as a veteran of the Vietnam War, where he was a member of the U.S. Navy Anti-Submarine Squadron 35. He was a proud recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Service Medal with Device. Fergie was a hardworking man who dedicated his life to his family and career. He worked for U.S. Steel Corporation at the Homestead works for 12 years while attending California State College to earn his bachelor’s degree in elementary education. Later, he was a sales manager for Dealer Depot until his retirement in 2012. Fergie’s love for his family was immeasurable, and he cherished every moment spent with them. His devotion to his wife, Loretta, was a testament to his unwavering love and commitment. Fergie’s memory will forever be cherished by his three children, Alexander J. (Amy) Ferguson III of Finleyville, Ann (Kirk) Bianchi of Carroll Township and Krista (Chad) Rice of Finleyville; his 10 grandchildren, Alexander IV, Lily, Maxwell and Spencer; Cole, Alina and Olivia; Mason, Anabella and Mila were the lights of his life. He was immensely proud of each and every one of them. The loss of Fergie leaves a void that cannot be filled, and the pain of his absence is palpable. His sister, Joan (Walter) Painter of Donora; sister-in-law, Vincetta “Dolly” Apessos of New Bern, N.C.; and brothers-in- law, Bud (Roberta) Mauro and Lawrence (Ginny) Mauro of Donora; and several awesome nieces and nephews share in this profound sorrow. Alex was a pillar of his community and an active member of several organizations that he held close to his heart. He proudly served as a member of the Donora Public Library Board for over 30 years, dedicating his time and effort to ensure that his community had access to the resources they needed to grow and learn. He was also one of the initial founders of the Donora Youth Soccer Association, where he played an instrumental role in shaping the lives of countless young people. Beyond his community involvement, Fergie had many hobbies that he enjoyed. He was an accomplished cook, and his recipes were loved by all who were lucky enough to taste them. He had a green thumb and spent many hours in his garden, tending to his plants, nurturing them to life and canning them with his nephew, Joe Painter. He was an avid hunter and enjoyed spending time outdoors surrounded by nature, his children and good friend Dennis Molchan. He also looked forward to spending winters in Marco Island with his wife Loretta and best friend and cousin, Del and Judy Suppo. Fergie’s greatest joy in life, however, was his family. He was a doting husband, father, grandfather and uncle, always there to lend a helping hand in any way he could. His love for his family was unmatched, and he was honored in 1993 as Father of the Year at Saint Phillips Catholic Church in Donora. He was immensely proud of his children and grandchildren and always made time for them, no matter what else was going on in his life. Fergie’s commitment to his community and his family also led him to serve as a member of the Ringgold School Board for eight years. He recognized the importance of education and was committed to ensuring that the children in his community had access to the resources they needed to succeed. During his time on the board, he introduced the College in High School Program and helped to implement the federally funded breakfast program for the students of the district. As we mourn the loss of this remarkable man, we take solace in knowing that his legacy of love, commitment and service will live on through the countless lives he touched. His contributions to his community and his family will never be forgotten, and we will forever be grateful for the time we had with him. Fergie’s presence will be deeply missed, and his memory will forever be etched in our hearts. May he rest in peace knowing that his legacy of love, honor and selflessness will live on through his family and friends. The family will receive friends at ANTHONY L. MASSAFRA FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATION SERVICE INC., 40 Second St. Ext., Donora, PA 15033, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 1, 2023. Prayers will be recited in the funeral home at 9 a.m. Thursday, March 2, 2023, followed by a Mass of Christian burial in St. Andrew the Apostle Parish Donora Campus at 10 a.m. Interment will follow in the Cemetery of the Alleghenies in Bridgeville, Pa. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Donora Public Library. To share a condolence please visit www.massafrafuneralhome.com.