Alex Dean Wytaske

Alex D. Wytaske, a decorated Navy officer and beloved family member, passed away on September 26, 2024 at the age of 39. Born and raised in Hastings, Minnesota, Alex dedicated his life to serving his country with honor and distinction.

Alex graduated from Hastings High School and enlisted in the United States Navy in 2004, answering the call of duty and embarking on a journey that would see him rise through the ranks to become a Lieutenant Commander. His exemplary service led him to earn his commission in 2012 through the Admiral Mike Boorda Seaman to Admiral-21 Program. Over the course of his career, Alex demonstrated exceptional leadership, expertise, and selflessness across multiple challenging assignments.

During his early Navy years, Alex attended the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center, after which he was stationed at Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit (MDSU) ONE in Hawaii. He also served at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard Detachment Everett in Washington State. He graduated from the University of Washington with a bachelor’s degree in political science with an emphasis on Nuclear Non-Proliferation.

Following his commission, he was assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit FIVE in Guam, where he held the positions of Assistant Platoon Commander and Platoon Commander. His leadership abilities were evident in his service with Special Operations Forces, as well as during his time at Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Training and Evaluation Unit ONE Detachment China Lake, where he served as Officer in Charge.

Alex’s expertise extended into various key roles, including Operations Officer at Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit TWO and EOD & Diving requirements branch head at Navy Expeditionary Combat Command (NECC). His most recent assignment was as an expeditionary readiness analyst at OPNAV N83 at the Pentagon.

Beyond his military achievements, Alex will be remembered for his devotion to his family, friends, and fellow service members. His legacy of service, courage, and commitment to the greater good will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Liz Eiser; his parents, Gary and Glenda Wytaske; his sister, Jamie Donlin, her husband, Joe Donlin, and their children, Max and Addie Donlin. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched during his time with us.

Two memorial services will be held to celebrate Alex’s life:

Sunday 20 October 2024 Maryland, Memorial Service at Hines-Rinaldi Funeral Home (11800 New Hampshire Ave Silver Spring, MD 20904) starting at 1030 am followed by a reception at Lone Oak Brewery (Olney Laytonsville Rd, Olney, MD 20832). For the reception, family and friends are requested to wear Alex’s favorite attire – Hoodies, Hawaiian Shirts, or Flannel (weather permitting).

Wednesday 30 October 2024 Minnesota, Memorial Service at Little Log House Pioneer Village (21889 Michael Avenue Hastings, Minnesota 55033) from 4-8pm,

The family kindly requests that donations be made in Alex’s honor to Active Valor.