Sergeant of Arms Gives One Final Gift

Donor Alex Charles McVicker
Sergeant of Arms Gives One Final Gift
Every Life Has a Story

Alex Charles McVicker

(March 22, 1983-December 6, 2017)

Alex Charles McVicker was born on March 22, 1983, to Thomas and Catherine (VanMaanen) McVicker. Alex was born with severe health issues that he carried throughout his life; however, these medical struggles never slowed him down. He was a special and strong person with a unique perspective on life, and overcame many of challenges he faced.

Alex attended Kissinger School in Merrill, Iowa. He made many wonderful friends there and thrived under the unconditional support from the teachers and staff. Alex enjoyed putting together puzzles, mowing the lawn for his family, camping, riding motorcycles, and collecting motorcycle and Harley Davidson memorabilia. Alex loved animals and could connect with all he came across. His favorite animals were his two beloved dogs, Katie and Boji.

Alex was a lifetime honorary member of the American Legion Riders and a member of the Independent Riders for Children and Charities where he also held the position of Sergeant of Arms. One of his proudest moments was when he was able to hold the American flag in the honor guard at his much loved grandfather John VanMaanen’s funeral.

Alex will be remembered as a loving, friendly, and family oriented person. He never met a stranger and his family meant the world to him. He was notorious for calling and visiting with family, friends, and even radio hosts, on a regular basis. He loved to visit his brother and sister and was proud to be an uncle. He cherished the time spent with his family; whether working with his dad on plumbing projects, handing out Christmas presents as the official family Santa, or performing his favorite songs (air guitar included) to his family at home. Alex was an amazing son, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend. He is greatly missed.

Alex’s giving spirit continued after his death as he personally made the decision to be a registered donor. Although Alex was extremely near-sighted and legally blind in one eye, a 69-year-old man and a 65-year-old woman, both from Iowa, were given the gift of sight through Alex’s selfless act of cornea donation.