Alexander B. Small

Alexander B. Small, 93, WWII Veteran, formally of East Peoria, passed away peacefully at Morningside of Washington at 9:05pm on July 11, 2020, surrounded by his loving family shortly before his passing.

Alex was born on July 3, 1927, in Panama, Illinois to Walter McLuckie Small and Isabella Baird Small who were born in Scotland. He married Marilyn G. Brown in Peoria on August 26,1951 and remained married to her until her death on March 2, 2010. Surviving are his children, Bruce A. Small of Galena, Illinois and Cindy S. Small-Hilst of Pekin, Illinois. Also surviving are two granddaughters, Carissa (Ryan) Dodwell of Washington, Illinois, Dr. Cambrea (Geoff) Hendricks of Morton, Illinois, and one great grandson, Kelten Dodwell, who was Alex’s favorite “grabber” fencing partner anytime they were together. Alex was preceded in death by his wife, parents, and two sisters, Eliza Bryan and Agnes Kumps.

He attended Manual High School in Peoria, Illinois, leaving at age 17 to join the United States Navy. Alex joined the US Navy on March 3, 1945. He proudly served as a Navy CB holding the rank of EM3c. He was stationed at Pearl Harbor, Guam, and Okinawa during World War II. After an honorable discharge on July 31, 1946, Alex returned to complete his high school education following which he went to work for Illinois Bell Telephone Company. He worked there until his retirement as a supervisor in 1982 after 35 years of employment. Alex was a lifetime member of East Peoria VFW Post #2078 and a lifetime member of Telephone Pioneers of America. He was a member of Christ Lutheran Church in Peoria for many years.

Alex was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather throughout his life. He loved to hunt and especially enjoyed fishing. In his younger years, he also participated in Peoria Golden Gloves welterweight boxing. One of Alex’s favorite pastimes was playing cards. He most preferred poker and pinochle but would always be glad to join a card game of any kind. Alex was a huge Bears fan and an avid Cubs fan. His hallmark trait was his teasing humor, quick wit, and easy-going personality. Alex truly will be missed by all who knew him.

Funeral services will be held at Remmert Funeral Home in East Peoria, Illinois, on Saturday, July 18, 2020. Visitation will be from 10:00am until 11:00am with a short service following. Burial will be held following the service at Swan Lake Memory Gardens where he will join his wife, Marilyn, in eternal, peaceful rest.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Alex’s name to the East Peoria VFW Post # 2078.