Alexander Wilson Obituary

Wilson, Alexander L. July 13, 1958 - January 20, 2016 The Wilson family wants to thank Alexander's friends and acquaintances for loving him. We didn't realize there was such an outpouring of affection for him. Yet it shouldn't surprise anyone who knew him. He was a rare soul of humanity and heartfelt giving. An endearing, strong and practical mother raised Alexander in C.H.A.'s Madden Park Housing on the south side of Chicago. She encouraged Skip (as he was affectionately known) to rise above his socio-economic circumstances. Alexander graduated from Dunbar High School. It was at Dunbar that he took up R.O.T.C. and became instructed on the discipline of military life. He served in the United States Marine Corps for eight years where he distinguished himself by earning a status of E-5 marksmanship, Meritorious Mast Award and a Good Conduct Medal. He was stationed in Okinawa, Japan for some part of his duty. He was honorably discharged with a rank of Sergeant. Following the practical financial wisdom of his mother ("get a job!"), Skip worked in the security, hospitality and health care fields upon leaving the Marines. Alexander really loved and had a keen enthusiasm for music. His eclectic taste in music gave his brothers a broader understanding of R&B, jazz, rock, soul and blues. Also, to garner a greater appreciation in excellent sound quality of a stereo system. He had one of the first state of the art stereos (Sansui), which he sent home while stationed overseas. Guests were always awed by the fact this extraordinary sound equipment was in the Wilson family living room. This sense of message, rhythm and harmony from music enabled him to bond with people from all walks of life, from drunks to directors of industry and see them for their actual character traits and to understand their flaws and triumphs. He was a comfort to people's souls and lent an ear of nonjudgmental understanding. He was an unassuming, nonjudgmental gentleman. Alexander wasn't devoted to any religion, but he read the Quran, the bible and Watchtower. He had an inquisitive mind and wanted to ascertain information on various subjects. He also liked to read news, entertainment and military periodicals. He will always wear a medal of compassion in the hearts of those who knew him. Alexander passed away on January 20, 2016 from colon cancer at age 57. A private funeral was held with full military honors including a 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps on February 3, 2016. His brother, Vaughn, gave the eulogy. It was quite special and befitting a man who served his country and citizens of the world. Alexander is survived by his mother, Mary Ann and three brothers, Vaughn, Cornell and Breck. In lieu of flowers and cards, please make a donation in the memory of Alexander L. Wilson to the Wounded Warrior Project at http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org or phone: 1-877-832-6997.