Alexander Peter Kiczek

Alex was born on May 30, 1945 in Bayonne, New Jersey to Frances and Julius Kiczek. He graduated from St. Peter’s Prep and from Stevens Institute of Technology in 1967. On February 4, 1967, he married the love of his life, Carol Cormano, beginning a marriage that would span 59 years.

Alex built a distinguished career as a chemical engineer, working for Birds Eye, Maxwell House, Lipton, and ultimately Colgate-Palmolive. During his 29 years with Colgate, he traveled the world, earned multiple patents, was awarded 2 Presidents Awards, a global Make a Difference award and retired as Director of Technology. He was known for his ability to adapt, his sharp mind, and his dedication to innovation.

Outside of work, Alex was guided by his deep Catholic faith. A devout Catholic and Secular Franciscan, he lived his beliefs through service. He volunteered with Martin House, Habitat for Humanity, the Red Bank Soup Kitchen, Kansas City Northern Railroad–Line Creek, and countless other organizations. He helped dig wells in places such as El Salvador to bring clean drinking water to communities in need. After retiring, he continued his life of care and service by working alongside Carol as a home health aide.

Alex was passionate about trains and loved to travel, especially by rail. When colleagues and friends visited from other countries, he delighted in hosting them and showing them the sights of New York City. He also opened his home and heart as a foster parent to children and disabled adults and participated in the State of New Jersey’s Respite Care Program, offering support and short-term breaks to families who are full time caregivers.

In 2016, Alex and Carol moved to Kansas City, Missouri. There, Alex embraced retirement and the gift of time with his family. He took great joy in being present for everyday moments, watching his grandchildren grow, and celebrating their milestones

Alex leaves behind his loving wife, Carol; his children, Brian, Michael, Alexander Jr., David Kiczek, Theresa Fitzgerald, and Ronald Shough, their spouses, Esmeralda, Laura, Ria Kiczek, and Scott Fitzgerald; and his grandchildren, Ashley, Sarah, Maria, Madison, Charlotte, Alexander III, James, Noah, Mason O’Neill, Carter and Luella Kiczek, and Ava Fitzgerald. He is also survived by his brother, Leonard; and sisters-in-law, Regina and Joy; as well as many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Frances and Julius Kiczek; his brothers, Charles and Julius; his children, Peter, Eric, and Paul; his foster sons, Tommy and Tyrone O’Shea and Robert Allen; and his grandson, Aidan.

A funeral service will be held at Newcomer White Chapel on Friday, June 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., with a short visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Lunch Break (Red Bank Soup Kitchen). For more information on how to donate, please see their website lunchbreak.org

Alex’s life was marked by faith, service, and love. His example of love, strength and generosity will live on in all who were blessed to know him.