Alexander Dincau Vogel

born December 10, 1981, Minneapolis, Minnesota - passed away July 23, 2019, Loveland, Colorado -

Parents are Robert E. Vogel and step-mother Victoria Vogel, and Karen Dincau-Amit and step-father Eilon Amit. Alex attended St. Louis Park High School, in Minnesota, and the University of Colorado at Boulder. He was a self-employed artist, and served as a paratrooper in Iraq with the U.S. Army, 82nd Airborne Division. He is survived by step-siblings Garrett Owen, and Ohad and Roni Amit, many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and his brothers-in-arms. Alex was preceded in death by his grandparents Alfus and Ruth Dincau, Clarence and Ann Vogel, his uncle, Rick Vogel, and cousins Donna Dincau and Max Vogel.

Alex loved art, and creating art. Largely self-taught, his work was recognized early on as he achieved honors for contributions to his high school literary magazine and newspaper. His humor permeated light-hearted creations and cartoons, while his remarkable skills rendering life-like portraits, wildlife, and military-informed themes grew stronger and more refined. His pencil representation of war in Iraq, "After Action," would eventually be recognized with first-place and grand prize awards in a national art competition. Upon Alex's return from the war, he adopted a new theme, "create beauty." The results are a marvelous series of portraits of softness and emotion, a contrast to the harshness of sixteen months in a war zone. His "Moment of Zen" video postings to Facebook echo the theme, each one a step into a moment of peace.

Alex collaborated with his father, owner of St. Peter Stained Glass Studios, in creating one-of-a-kind stained glass works. The artist Alphonse Mucha influenced Alex's style and palette, and these are evidenced in a series of windows and portraits in glass. Their collaborative works have been installed in private homes, businesses and public institutions in the Midweset.

Alex loved being active, whether that involved krav, jogging around Lake Loveland, hiking in nearby Bobcat Ridge or Rocky Mountain National Park, or summiting a fourteener. The northern wilderness of Minnesota was a favorite place. He summer and winter camped in the Boundary Waters, and spent a month canoeing in the Canadian wilderness, honing his self-reliance as a teen. His photographs capture the year-round natural beauty and peace he loved. Whether snowshoeing or hiking, Alex's time outdoors was life itself. His interest in shooting meant range time with friends, or competing against fellow-enthusiasts, where he enjoyed both the camaraderie and the sport.

Travel was another of Alex's passions. From an early age, Alex began experiencing life outside familiar boundaries. His travels mirrored his love of history, especially military history, which took him to battle sites from Gettysburg to Galipoli. Family in Israel provided opportunities to experience a new culture at a young age. His Iraq leave took him to multiple art galleries in Europe and the World Cup. His dream was to return to Iceland, where he enjoyed the natural beauty and easygoing nature of people he met.

Alex was funny. His wry musings or whimsical drawings on social media were a day brightener.

What gave Alex enduring satisfaction was helping others. He reached out in any capacity, to give as he could, to family, friends and strangers. With a wide range of knowledge and experience, Alex was the go-to-guy for many who needed help. He volunteered with veterans and first responders as part of Team Rubicon, giving assistance to Colorado's wildfire victims.

Alex was a thoughtful, kind, and generous man. He was a loyal friend, and a loved family member who has enriched our lives. And he will be deeply missed.

Memorials may be made to donor's choice, Team Rubicon, Office of Development, 6171 Century Blvd., Suite 310, Los Angeles, CA 90045, or to Larimer Humane Society, 3501 East 71st Street, Loveland, CO 80538.