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Alex Edward Plasschaert

Alex Plasschaert Obituary

PLASSCHAERT , Alex Edward
Santa Clarita-Alex (The "Big A") Edward Plasschaert, died unexpectedly in his sleep on Saturday, March 24, one day after celebrating his 75th birthday in Memphis. He was preceded in death by his parents Alexander and Grace Plasschaert.
Alex is a native Californian and has been a dancer, choreographer, and stuntman. He was one of the dancing chimney sweeps in "Mary Poppins," and he danced with Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, and Debbie Reynolds, and with Barbra Streisand in "Hello Dolly" as well! Alex was also a stuntman in many movies and is responsible for coordinating several live stunt shows at Universal Studios. He owned a thriving dance studio in Canyon Country for many years where he taught jazz and tap and gave stunt lessons. He was a truly talented artist who loved to perform, direct, coach, and teach; and was loved for his vibrant personality and incredible patience.
Alex shared much of his talent with church pageants, including the "Living Christmas Tree" productions at the Van Nuys Baptist church. This legacy lives on today at Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, where Alex helped create the Living Tree programs at Christmastime and where he spent his last day on earth, helping with their upcoming Easter celebration musical.
Alex lived life to the fullest. He loved activity-skiing, water skiing, playing tennis and golf, and having big family feasts! His warmth and love for people have blessed many. He found his life's purpose in serving God with a passion, and he devoted his life to honoring Jesus Christ. His life verse is Jeremiah 29:11: "'I know the plans I have for you,' says the Lord."
Mr. Plasschaert is survived by his wife, Barbara Plasschaert, daughter R.D. Plasschaert, son A.J. Plasschaert, daughter Kellyn Plasschaert, son Nicholas Plasschaert, son Gavin Plasschaert, daughter Brandi Round, stepchildren Kelly Seidenkranz and Craig Houston, grandchildren Cole, Luke and Summer Plasschaert, Mackenzie and Zachary Plasschaert , Hanna Round, Joshua Seidenkranz, Isabella and Donovan Houston, and many dear friends.
A memorial celebration will be held at The Sanctuary Church, 26444 Friendly Valley Parkway, in Canyon Country, on Saturday, March 31st, at 2:00 p.m.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Los Angeles Times on Mar. 29, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Alex Plasschaert

Sponsored by the Family of Alex Plasschaert.

48 Entries

Richard Kavonian

July 16, 2025

I miss my "second dad" very much. In those days life was so much more simpler then, full of freedom, wonder, and beauty, where a person had more space and time to dream and move around. Mr. P would inspire us to be our best version of our self. He was always "upbeat" in one word which described him. He had a gleam in his eyes, a dance and song in his heart and in every step he took.

Richard Kavonian, Jr.

May 31, 2023

I´ll never forget being raised by my "second dad," still in his "heyday" of an earlier era of the Plasschaert family and the changes that were common in that the period from around 67 to 77 and beyond. Especially in that particular time period one could not have be brought up without having been influenced and to a degree molded by the changes that were happening. Things were moving so fast back then. I reflect back at moments of time in which Alex Sr. and I had interactions and were very positive and upbeat. He was so infectiously happy and entertaining, and intelligent. I remember places, conversations, outings and events (music and tennis) that I cherish. Mr. "P" was a very fit and busy man with a family to take care of. I can also see how Alex Sr. took after his mom "grandma" Grace, who was a very delightful woman with a gleam in her eyes like no other! I was blessed to have been there during that time, and I won´t ever forget him. Thanks for the memories and being my "2nd dad" Mr. P!

Rosie Cardona

May 30, 2023

Dear Barbara
My sincerest condolences on your loss of Alex. You were my jazz instructor in Canyon Country CA over 40 years ago when I was. Los Angeles Deputy Sheriff. I always remember your beautiful eyes. I now Pastor a church in Castle Rock, CO and think of you
Regards,
Rosemarie Cardona (Guerrero)

Diana Lee

April 10, 2022

Oh my sweet Alex!! You are on my mind today and I´m awash in my many memories of private dance lessons and laughter working on the road with you. Wonderful memories not only of performing but fun during the day waterskiing with your family in Lake Mead. First time I ever slalom skied! What else can I say at this late date but THANK YOU for all you contributed to countless lives with your brilliant talent and your vibrant personality. You left a beautiful mark on this Earth. Rest in deepest peace and love to the entire family.

Tom jordan

September 20, 2021

This the first I've heard of the passing of Mr. plasshaert. My heart felt condolences go out to the family.
He came to our church in Albuquerque NM, and did the choreography for a show "Celebrate Life". He was full of energy, loved life. He gave 110 per cent to everyone involved. I will always remember his passion.

Mark Alexander

February 7, 2021

There’s not a year or a show that goes by that we don’t miss Alex. So much of what he taught and inspired is a part of everything we do. Take it from “el-toppo”! I can’t wait till we see him again.

Michelle Fye

October 20, 2013

Watching Mary Poppins tonight with my family and remembering back to my days at church dancing under the guidance of Alex in years worth of Singing Tree performances. A true talent but an even bigger servant of the Lord. Greatly missed but never forgotten

Richard Kavonian

March 18, 2012

I love and miss you "Dad #2." Life down here will not be the same w/o you, especially miss your insight, wisdom and encouragement. I hope to see you again, one day up there in that good place, with Jesus Christ the Lord.

Shelley Curtis-Hoover

August 9, 2011

Dear Barbara and Family,

I was so saddened to hear about Alex. I have been thinking about Alex a lot lately and googled his name. Then I come upon his Obituary. I am in shock. He was one of the greatest men I have ever known and I am honored to have known him. I just ordered the movie "Hello Dolly" so that I can watch him dance again. I remember being in Jr. High when that movie came out and I was so proud to tell all of my friends that he was my dance teacher. He was one of a kind and will never be forgotten. May God Bless you and your wonderful family.

Love,

Shelley Curtis

June 4, 2011

Alex. You touched my life. I was in the Lower Columbia Singers. You choreographed Here comes the Son and our Christmas Tree. I will always remember your sweet spirit and sense of humor. You blessed so many, may you be blessed my friend. Tim Jones

Gary Cech

March 22, 2010

Dear Barbara, I just came across a piece of paper with Alex's name and number on it. I only learned of his passing a short time ago from Gary Owens. I am so sorry. I can remember that day on Lake Mead so clearly - what a wonderful beginning to a friendship. Although separated by miles, you both - with your love for Christ and each other - are inspirational. Jeremiah 29:11-13 is my life's verse as well. Doesn't surprise me. Now that I found the number, I am looking forward to talking with you. Here is the road God as me on www.Grace247.org
Love in Christ, Gary

Kim Harlow

February 17, 2010

Words can not express how sad I am to find this news. I studied under Alex for many years in the early Eighties. Alex was a wonderful example of what a man should be. He and his family were so loving. They made you feel as if you were part of their family. He had a huge impact on my life as a dancer and as a person. When my father died He and Barbara were so supportive and offered their guidance. His lessons were invaluable and I'll treasure all that I have learned from him. Thank you Alex! .......Kim Harlow

Scott Ryder

September 24, 2009

I miss you Alex... I took your classes for jazz in Studio City at the "Mauro Landis building!" in late sixties. I was 10 and 11 years old the only kid in the class!!!!! It was hard to concentrate with Raquel Welch and Judy Carne there, even at that tender age I knew what I was seeing... Funny , patient and so great on the drums when we would perform the routine at the end. A terific memory i will always cherish... You made the planet a better place. All my love to you... and all good wishes for your family.

BRENDA SAYGER

June 10, 2009

I'M REALLY SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT ALEX. MY REGRETS TO ALL THE FAMILY. GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU. WE WILL SEE YOU AGAIN ALEX.

brenda sayger

June 10, 2009

I'm so sorry. My regrets to the family.

David Daniels

June 8, 2009

I just now found this sad news while searching for old friends online. I met Mr. Plasschaert and his family in Balboa Park in around Easter 1980. He always seemed be a very happy person. May God bless his family.

Shirley Fagundes

May 10, 2009

Oh my dear sweet Alex,
You became a part of my life and help in molding me into the character I am while I was attending COS and you taught me by your ways just how special life is. You could light up a room just to walk through the doors. You always keep the operetta staff laughing and loving every minute of our rehearsals with you. I was honored to be your assistant in both "My Fair Lady" and "Carousel" plus singing and dancing and for that I am so thankful. Our working close together brought on a life time friendship that turned you into more of a brother than just a friend. I was so thrilled when you ask me to live with your three children, Alex, Kellyn & Kevin for the full duration of your stay in Europe because you wanted your wife to go with you. Well, I must say that those were some awesome times and such wonderful memories I have shared with my own family and still consider your precious children as part of my family.
To hear you had passed on was such a shock for we had lost tough with one another and to find your obit on the web took me by total surprise.
I shall miss you always. You lit up life when I needed it and your family lit up my life forever. I shall always consider your children as mine also.
May God bless you all,
Shirley Lee Fagundes (College of the Sequoias)

Gary Owens

June 25, 2007

Alex was one-of-a-kind. A concentration of energy and optimism like no other person. He was only a professional acquaintance of mine but I think of him often. Because of his amazing personality and spiritual strength I consider him a moral compass in my day-to-day life. Although we only saw each other occasionally I will miss him tremendously and will always cherish the limited time we did spend together. My deepest condolences to his family and friends. Thank you.

Terry Parsons

May 1, 2007

I will never forget Alex. He was a man that you always knew you were a better person just knowing him. His smile, kindness, compassion and love for his family was so apparent. I danced with Alex at Moro Landis dance studios -many years ago. He would choreograph a number, then sit behind his drums and play for us to dance. "A-TI-TUUUDE!" I remember so well. Having not seen him in so many years, I meant to surprise him and take his tap class he was teaching at Debbie Reynold's studio. I never made it, and for that, I am deeply sorry. He made the world a better place, and is now dancing on streets of Gold. I didn't know about the memorial service or I would have not missed it. Alex, we'll all be dancing with you again someday. Until then, I will really miss you. Terri Parsons

Martha Witcher

April 22, 2007

I am truly blessed for having known Alex Plasschaert. I had the privilege of working with Alex on the various productions that were held at Bellevue Baptist Church (Cordova, TN). He first came in 1996. Since I was the propmaster of the productions, we were brought together on many occasions. I always came away amazed at the knowledge that he had to share.

Alex was a very kind and gentle man. He left a positive impression on all with which he came in contact. His love for our Lord was always evident.

The last choreography that Alex did on this earth was to improve the finale of our 2007 Passion Play. That scene portrays all the redeemed who are gathered around the heavenly throne waiting to present their crowns to Jesus. I know that Alex is there at the feet of Jesus and he is dancing on those streets of gold.

I will miss you Alex, but look ahead to the day we can talk again.

I love you Barbara, and all the family.

Monty Anderson

April 18, 2007

I am so very sorry for the loss of Alex. I have been blessed by meeting many wonderful and special people and Alex is certainly at the top of this list. It has been a very long time since working with him on the many College of the Sequoias productions in Visalia CA. I treasure his willingness to share and teach.

alana reed

April 15, 2007

I am deeply saddened to read about Alex's passing which I learned of just now having done a "whatever happened to" web search. Last I knew, Alex was teaching tap at a studio not far from me, but I never quite made it in to say, "Hello, remember me?" I danced for Alex years ago in a Magic Mountain show and was overjoyed to work with a superbly trained dancer & choreographer (and to have gotten the job)! He'd be at rehearsals directing like mad and then dash off to some movie studio to do a Shaggy Dog stunt, and then would be right back dancing. At the end of the week, I'd be exhausted from dancing everyday and Alex would be planning entire weekends of water skiing.
My deepest sympathies to his family and to all the dance community who are aware of his work. I'm glad I have footage from his films. Here's to the Chimney Sweep bloke who made it all look so easy... and so very, VERY much fun!

JOE FURY

April 15, 2007

My condolences to you Barbara, Nick, A.J.,and the rest of the family. I couldn't believe it. I was on my way to see Alex, I had no idea. Alex was my mentor, and friend and I felt very honor by that. He was the only one that ever believed in me. Alex was very soft spoken, but could be very firm. I highly Respected Alex. I will miss him dearly, and he will always be in my heart. I will always keep you all in my prayers. Barbara; Peace be with You and your family. Alex, I LOVE YOU. rest in peace.

Scott and Karen Sturtevant

April 11, 2007

What a rare privilege to be able to say that Alex Plasschaert was our friend. Scott and I have worked with him and fellowshipped with him and Barbara over the past 10 years since he's been coming to Bellevue, and count it as one of our most special blessings from the Lord to have known such a rare man. Personally, one of my most cherished memories is my one-on-one tap lesson, pinching myself the whole time that this man, my friend, once danced with Gene Kelly and is now teaching me. We will miss him so very much, but we know we will see him again in the presence of the Lord Jesus one day. Barbara, we love you and will continue to pray for you. Goodbye, Alex, and thank you for loving Jesus and letting that incredible creativity from Him flow through you.

Lynn Knudsen

April 6, 2007

My heartfelt condolences to Barbara and the whole Plasschaert Family. Alex surely will be missed.
What a great man he was, and is! He used his extraordinary talents and gifts to bless the lives of others...."For when you are in the service of your fellow beings, you are only in the service of your God" K. Benjamin
I feel so blessed that I ever knew Alex Plasschaert. It will be easy to remember him with fondness and love because his great choreography will always be in our performances.
Love and Sympathy
Lynn Knudsen
Knudsen Bros.

David, Jeanette, Josh and Annie Gray

April 4, 2007

God has truely enriched our lives because of both Alex and Barbara Plasschaert. Tonight as we finished the final performance of the Memphis Passion Play, we thought about how our lives had been enriched because of the friendship that we had forged with these two wonderful people. Thnak you for allowing us to be a part of your extended family here at Bellevue.
There is a song we hear and sing at Bellevue and the words are like this...."just think of stepping on shore, and finding it heaven. Of touching a hand and finding it God's. Of breathing new air and finding it celestial. of waking up in glory and finding it home." May we all look forward to that Heavenly home just like Alex.

Joel F. Pullen MD

April 4, 2007

Dear Plasschaert Family –
Thank you for allowing me to attend your Memorial Service for my Old Friend Alex.
I left this Service with a fortune. I met Alex the first day we entered Gage Junior High.
We became fast friends. We seemed to have gone separate ways after graduation from HP High School and later in life when we occasionally met could never figure out why that happened except to realize that we each go in search of our own journey in this life. I realized, while observing the Memorial Service, how many lives this truly decent man affected and moved. The many hundred friends in attendance were all smiles, not lamenting or regretting. This noted for me just how much joy he must have spread along the pathway he followed after we parted. He will “produce” grand memories for years to come for all who knew him. Even though our later life process intersected infequently my being is more complete for having known him – I shall miss him.

Joel F. Pullen – HPHS Class 50

Magen Stone

April 4, 2007

Barbara, my thoughts and prayers are with you. I will always cherish the memories I have of sitting and visiting with you and Alex when you would come to choreograph the Singing Christmas Tree and Memphis Passion Play at Bellevue. I loved to watch Alex work, especially with the teenagers. They, like the rest of us, adored Alex. But, my favorite time with you and Alex was sitting around lunch in the office conference room listening to Alex tell stories of people he'd worked with in Hollywood.

One of my greatest regrets in moving to Houston this past September was knowing that I would more than likely not see the two of you again this side of Heaven. May the Lord bless you and keep you! Love much!

Barbara Plasschaert

April 3, 2007

Alex was and will always be my husband, soul-mate friend and lover. We shared 31 years together, and for that I will be forever grateful. You'll always be with me darling-please save the last dance for me!!

Our love is here to stay,
Your lady,
Barbara

Sandra LeBlanc

April 2, 2007

Alex brings a smile when I remember
the wonderfuld days he spent at the Calgary Stampede and the Young Canadians of the Calgary Exhbition and Stampede.

Our thoughts are with the family

Ted Jeal

April 2, 2007

A tip of my cowboy hat to Barbara and the Placharert family. My heart goes out to you at this time and in the days and months ahead. I will always remember Alex as an incredibly positive, talented and kind man of God. He brought a new freshness and creative energy to the Calgary Stampede Evening Show in the nineties. I will always remember Alex with great fondess. John 3 :16
Happy Trails Alex

Ben Laird

April 1, 2007

I'll always remember Alex for his infectious energy and enthusuiasm as choreographer for the Grandstand Show at The Calgary Stampede. I had a great time after renting Mary Poppins, watching the chimney sweep scene and trying to pick him out of the crowd of smudged dancers. A very talented man who convinced me I could fall from a thirty foot tall platform in the Grandstand Show and that it was actually really fun. To this day, one of biggest thrills of my life. Thanks Alex.

Todd Al

April 1, 2007

I learned a lot from Alex and loved that he was always smiling and vibrant. He's a good memory in my life.

paul cimarusti

April 1, 2007

Dear Family,I also Was Grad Class
Of 1950 ,Enjoyed Playing Football
With Alex In High school,Just Look In the Year Book,I Alway Looked Forward To The Class Reunions.Sorry For The Lose Of A Great Person. Best Alway Paul

Tammy Graf

March 31, 2007

We will all miss a wonderful man!! God took him to early,BUT GOd's timing is always perfect. He's dancing on the clouds for Jesus now. How cool is that?!!!!
I was a dance student of Alex's at ACTION UNLIMINTED in 1985 ish. The times we had we're the best! I'll never forget "ok from the top.. 5,6,7,8". His smile, his love for dance, his energy, his enthusium was contagous and I will always love him for that. I have great memories and great pictures to look back on.
This truly is a celebration of new life and he's hanging with our heavenly father!
Love and prayers to Barbara and the family. One day at a time. :)
I can't wait to dance with Alex when we get to heaven!!!
In His Love and Mine always

Barry Knudsen

March 31, 2007

What deep loss indeed, for those of us who were so fortunate to have been touched by Alex's influence and training. He took my brothers and I under his wing and with only the kindness, tolerance and patience that a man of his spiritual stature can wield, helped form us into what we are today. He will be deeply missed. We know, however, he is now in Wonderful Hands.

Loretta Jackson

March 31, 2007

I gave my wrong e-mail address

Loretta Jackson

March 30, 2007

I would like to give my condolences to Barbara and the family. I have many memories of Squirt. (that is what we all called him in our family) when we were young and our families all got together. He was a wonderful cousin. As we all got older and went our ways, the only contact was at Christmas but he was always in our heart. I always spent the night with his mom when I was young and her whole world was Squirt. Now he is with her. God Bless your family Barbara and I will keep in touch. Love Loretta

Angie, Nick, Gemma, Cole, Luke & Summer. Plasschaert

March 30, 2007

Dad, thank you for the love, laughter and endless life. We will continue all that you have shared with us, the stories the talent and the heart ....everyday your grandkids have a 'Poppa' moment, reminding us you are and will always remain a big part of our lives. YOU WILL BE MISSED AND CHERISHED ALWAYS...until we meet again Dad. We love you so very much!! xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Jill Jaxx

March 30, 2007

Alex Plasschaert changed my life---I know I'm only one of the many fortunate people who can say that. He worked with our singing group, the Burgundy Street Singers, at the crossroads of our careers. We had been told we would never make it since we "couldn't dance." Alex smiled his 1000-watt smile, jollied and inspired us along, and in weeks had seven of us dancing so well the choreographer of the Carol Burnett show thought we were actually different people! This was many years ago, and at my young age, even though I had never met anyone as enthusiastic, positive, loving, patient, and magical as he was, I thought maybe there were other people out there like him. There never was. He was and will remain my role model forever as the best teacher I have ever had. I am a teacher now myself---I teach singing and acting---and I often hear Alex's voice in my head: "That's better than they deserve!" or "Stretch-y vous!" And of course,"While we're still young!"
I wish I could have seen him once more to tell him how extraordinary he was and how much I owe him---he really did raise us all up to a level that was not possible. He made "impossible" fun and joy a way to approach every obstacle. Everyone who got to be around Alex was blessed, for he was truely "God in action". Thank you, Alex.

Sam Duncan

March 30, 2007

Every remembrance of Alex Plasschaert brings with it a smile. I am looking back many years to a full of fun and talented young high school friend, who was loved by all who knew him. He was always wearing a flashy shirt, (we nicknamed him "FLASH!"), playing his beloved yuke and singing.
We loved hearing about his successes in his dancing endeavors, but even more we love thinking of him rejoicing and dancing on the "Streets of Gold" with Jesus. We know that he is full of joy and we will see him again before long and what a reunion we will have.
Sam Duncan, high school classmate and friend, Huntington Park High School class of 1950.

Nancy Kaullen

March 30, 2007

I am the oldest daughter of Edward Lamb (brother of Alex's mother) Grace (Toots). I remember keeping a picture of Alex (Squirt) dancing on drums in my wallet as a teenager and telling my friends he was my boyfriend! His father, Alex, use to snap his fingernails in my hair and said he was killing the bugs. As we grew older I remember visiting him and spending the night at his house with my friend and sister then going to Universal Studios and watching him perform which made it VERY special for us. What a treat! Later on in life meeting him at Calgary Stampeed and going back stage to see him. What an experience! My thoughts and prayers are with the family. What a lose.

Michelle Jolly

March 30, 2007

Precious Barbara and Family,
What unbelieveable memories I have of Alex and the past 11 years he has been coming to Bellevue Baptist Church, Memphis, TN. Alex always had a smile on his face and a word of encouragement. He will be missed sorely but I do know he stands in the presence of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. He's where we're all striving to get to and you can rest assured that you will see him again. Much love to you Barbara - you're in my thoughts and prayers.

Staff of Memorial Park Funeral Home & Cemeteries & Cemeteries

March 29, 2007

Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.

Reg Heppell

March 29, 2007

I graduated from High School with Alex. Huntington Park HS class of 1950 and I am sorry to say the only contacts we had after school was at reunions. Alex was always one of the most positive guys in our class. He is dancing with the great ones. Reg Heppell, Windsor, Ca.

Miriam Berner

March 29, 2007

I will deeply miss Alex. He was like a grand father to me over the years that he helped at Bellevue Baptist in Memphis. He has always been there to talk to me when I needed someone to talk to even through me diagnosis and marriage. He was my hero and I loved him very much. If I ever am honored to have a son, I would like to name him Alex his memory and honor of Alex Plasschaert. Thank you for everything, barb. I consider myself very lucky to have known him. God bless! Love you

Craig

March 29, 2007

But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. --Matthew 6:20-21

Part of the glitter and glamour of the Hollywood-gilded American Dream is the immense wealth attained by celebrities. Alex Plasschaert had access to that wealth, sharing that unique charisma and talent that stars are made of. Brushing shoulders with the greatest entertainers from Broadway cinema and beyond, his earning power and potential could have easily been translated to lasting material riches. But this was not the essence of Alex Plasschaert’s dreams. Surely, he occasionally did dream up of enterprising ventures, but money was secondary to where his lasting investments were made.
Alex Plasschaert did not save up dollars; he invested in life.
As an entertainer, his actions were based on brightening the lives of his audience-- and everyone was his audience. He was a performer. Talented performers know how to deeply connect with their audience. He knew how to make everyone he worked with feel important and special. It did not matter who you were, stranger or familiar, when Alex spoke to you, his deep caring and sensitivity made you feel that you were significant. His electrifying passion motivated others to open up their unique spark of life, charging them with confidence where they were doubtful, and joy where they were defeated. When he was in charge, he modeled the energy and excitement that collectively inspires zealous ovation. He never asked for more than he was willing to give, and where his drive for perfection might overburden, he always maintained momentum by keeping things playful and fun.
Alex lived for fun and this is perhaps where the essence of his energy begins. Between leisure and work, Alex was always seeking opportunities to celebrate and play. Every holiday was a jubilant production, full of games and surprises. Vacations were always exciting adventures, planned around Alex’s favorite activities. It didn’t matter how much money was in the bank; Alex knew that life was short and investing in these special times would provide priceless and glorious memories. He lived a rich life. When measured by the amount of priceless moments and impacted lives, Alex was amongst the wealthiest.

Gavin, Julie, Mackenzie & Zach Plasschaert

March 29, 2007

To the best Dad & Grandpa that anyone could ever have. Your family loves you and misses you. THANK YOU FOR THE MEMORIES DAD.

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