Alexander Thomas VanCleave

Alexander Thomas VanCleave "Xander"
Born May 7th 1993
Died August 27th 2024
Alexander Thomas VanCleave left this world as one of the strongest people we know and impacted every soul he touched in his life of 31 years. He fought so bravely against depression his entire life.
His life was filled with people who are forever bettered by the impact he made with his witty humor, loving, caring, infectiously cheery personality, and countless catch phrases. He sought to bring joy to everyone around him, often times doing so with just a goofy look.
Alex came into the world fighting, deciding he wanted to be 2 weeks earlier than his due date. He survived severe RSV at age 2, and Rheumatic Fever at 4. Mom took endearment to his particular brand of waking up as a baby, through his distinct "squeaks" as he stirred. That's where he earned the loving nickname "Squeakers" Mom and Dad used his entire life. The attachment of childhood only grew in adult life. Alex loved cooking for his parents, which included taking the mantle of Christmas cookie baking. All the best inappropriate cookies came from him. Alex loved the trips they all took together, even just sitting around discussing marvels of history or Mel Brooks references.
He graduated from Roy High school in 2011, where his clever wit served him as Captain of the debate team. Alex never lost an argument and placed nationals his junior year. He worked side by side with his older brother for nearly a decade between Sandy's and Chili's, before setting his sights at the IRS. Everyone he worked with and knew would have a better day thanks to his offhand comments, jokes (sometimes inappropriate) and overall radiant enthusiasm. Most everyone could agree he'd make a lasting friend on just a first impression.
His biggest impression by far rests in his niece and nephew. Alex loved Sabrina and Damien as hard as a person could, and his personality lives in both of them. Alex started his "cool uncle" years being a Blanket Monster for them as toddlers, all of them screaming and laughing around Grandma n Grandpa's house. Every chance he could, Alex spoiled them solid through the teens and young adulthood. He always provided them a safe place to be themselves and will always be Damien and Sabrina's absolute favorite person.
Alex was an avid gamer, from D&D, Magic the Gathering and any and all video games. His imagination created fantastic worlds for his friends to enjoy and made for memories, experiences and stories that will never be forgotten. He and his brother Kris played countless hours together on Xbox. Their constant conversations about Fallout and Elder Scrolls would drive everyone around them insane. Alex got more interested into golf the past few years, and loved spending Sunday golf trips with his grandpa, Dad, and older brother. His company was treasured on the course. He loved camping and hanging out with lifelong friends Matt, Ramsey, Erik, McKenzie, Saxton, Chase, Alex, Elizabeth his fiancé Justin Foy, and many many more who loved him unconditionally as chosen family.
When Alex wasn't with friends, he was with Justin. the absolute love of his life. From the moment Alex introduced Justin to the family, everyone knew the two were meant to walk through life as one. They worked joyfully on building their lives together and sharing the sacred meaning of life through love and companionship. They were engaged to be married after Justin surprise proposed to him at Disneyland. A defining "top of the mountain" moment of their many years together.
We all mourn the passing of our son, grandson, brother, uncle, fiancée, co-worker, and dearest friend.
He was preceded in death by his grandmothers Donna Bender and Joann VanCleave. Both were undoubtedly overjoyed to embrace and receive him.
He is survived by his parents Cheryl and Kurtis. His grandparents Karen and Martin Bender, Bonnie and Tom VanCleave. His brother Kris and sister-in-law Kaley. His beloved niece and nephew Sabrina and Damien. His fiancé Justin. And every person who shares a special memory of him.
We love you more than anything and you will never be forgotten. You were a shining light and had so much good in you, even though it was hard for you to see sometimes. You will always be in our hearts, and we know you'll feel our love as you watch over us amongst the stars.