Charles Junior Alexander

Charles was born on January 2, 1936, in Kirksville, Missouri, to Arveta Helena (Kapfer) Alexander and Charles Thomas Alexander. He was their only child. He later made Colorado his lifelong home, where he built both a successful career and a devoted family.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents and is survived by his beloved wife of 68 years, Shirley Maxine (James) Alexander; his children, Jewell Hensley (Darrell Hensley), Charles Len Alexander, James Alexander (Karen Determan), and Christine Sheesley (Tim Sheesley); four grandchildren Leah Hensley, Christopher Alexander (Jillian White), Julia Richardson (Brad Richardson) and Michael Alexander; and one great-grandchild.

He graduated from the University of Colorado in 1962 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. Charles enjoyed a long and distinguished professional career, beginning at Coors Porcelain Company in Golden, CO, where he worked from 1956 to 1964. He then served as a senior market specialist for Corning Glass Works in Corning, NY from 1964 to 1968 before returning to Coors Porcelain Company from 1968 to 1971. From 1971 to 1977, Charles was Vice President of Blair-Alexander Engineering Company in Denver, CO. In 1978, he became President and owner of the company, a role he held with pride and dedication until his retirement in 2007.

Charles was actively involved in numerous professional and civic organizations, including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, the National Management Association (serving as President of the Rocky Mountain Chapter from 1974 to 1975), and the Rocky Mountain Gas Association (President from 1977 to 1978). He was also a member of the Kiwanis Applewood Club and was recognized in Who’s Who in the West for 1980–1981.

Outside of work, Charles found joy in reading, bridge, running, and, above all, spending time with his grandchildren when he could, whom he considered one of God’s greatest blessings in his life. He treasured every moment with them—whether sharing museum visits, reading stories together, exploring the beauty of God’s creation outdoors, or faithfully attending their sporting events and cheering them on with pride.

Charles lived a beautiful life and found deep peace and happiness outdoors, often alongside his beloved wife, Shirley. He especially enjoyed fishing, hiking, and cross-country skiing at their cabin in Grand Lake, Colorado, as well as running and playing tennis at their home in Arizona. A devoted sports fan, Charles was a loyal supporter of the Denver Broncos, and he and Shirley proudly attended most home games together.

He will be remembered for his intelligence, steady leadership, deep love for his family, and gentle appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Charles’s presence will be deeply missed, but his example, faith, and love will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

Donations can be made to American Cancer Society: https://raiseyourway.donordrive.com/campaigns/In-Memory-of-Charles-J--Alexander

As well as the Alzheimer’s Association:

https://events.alz.org/fundraisers/christinesheesley/in-memory-of-charles-j--alexander