Alexander Gregory Mason

Alex Mason, born 27 December 1935 in Flushing, Queens, died at his home in Cortlandt Manor, NY, on 17 February 2025, comforted by family, after a decades-long struggle with Parkinsons. Alex was the son of Alexander Gregory "Chick" Michalenok and Frances Giovagnoli Michalenok, was predeceased by a brother Peter who died at 7 years of age, has a brother Albert, and grew up in two large families: the Giovagnolis and the Michalenoks. He and his wife Burchenal Green have two sons: Alexander Gregory and Theodore Dawes Mason. Alex and Burchie were married at home, and have lived there for 50 years, raising their sons and caring for assorted beloved pets. He embraced his wife's extended Green family as his own, hosting many reunions. Alex, a self-taught masterful craftsman, rebuilt his house, deck, dock, and garage.
A true renaissance man, Alex graduated from Queens College, worked deep in the Adirondak mountains for the NY Department of Conservation, did a stint in the army, and then pursued a career in publishing, specializing in international acquisitions and mergers, working first for Prentice Hall, then Pergamon Press, Harcourt, Brace & World, and Grove Press in England and New York. He was a published author, had an extensive library, and was an authority on modern literature.
Alex "Manifold Mason" built and raced cars, becoming an SCCA Formula C Regional Champion. He was an avid automobile aficionado and had a collection of antique and sports cars over the years. He had played trumpet in his youth and was a devoted and knowledgeable jazz fan. He also played baseball through college, followed the NY Mets, and coached his sons' teams.
He was a dedicated dad and generous and interesting friend, well remembered for his great laugh and wry sense of humor.
A celebration of his life is planned for late Spring.