Joseph "Cheech" Alexander

Joseph "Cheech" Alexander, a man of quick wit and comedy, embarked on his final adventure on August 1, 2025, in Grand Rapids, MI, after a valiant battle with gastric metastatic adenocarcinoma. Born Wednesday July 21, 1976, in the city of Chicago, IL, he transformed every room he entered with his loving, passionate, and comedic spirit.

Joseph held a bachelor's degree in botany and a minor in microbiology from the University of Chicago. His thirst for knowledge was only matched by his zest for life. He held a deep respect and unwavering commitment to protecting Mother Earth and all she embodied. For him, caring for the planet was not just a belief, but a guiding principle.

His love for science and the arts was as vast as the universe. Museums and art fueled his soul, while the ballet pulled passion deep from within his heart. He could be found rolling dice in Dungeons & Dragons, conquering virtual worlds while gaming, or spending quality time hanging with his family.

He was the ultimate science fiction aficionado, engaging in epic discussions about comics, Star Wars, and Star Trek. His ability to scare children was second to none; a talent he wielded with precision and love! Joe was a putt-putt golf champion in his own right, with too many holes-in-one to count. His love for Puerto Rico was as deep as the ocean; he embodied and radiated the passion of the Caribbean from his soul.

Joseph leaves behind a constellation of family members who were the stars in his sky: his beloved wife, Stephanie Alexander; his daughter, Arianna Alexander; his son, Isaac Alexander; his mother, Pamela Haddad; his stepfather, Michael Haddad; his sister, Elaina Vaid; his grandchildren, Leila Rose Pickard and Xzavier Alexander. He also leaves behind a galaxy of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, step-siblings, step-grandchildren, and in-laws of every kind: son, brothers, sisters, mother, and father.

Joseph "Cheech" Alexander was a man who lived life to the fullest, with a story for every occasion and a heart as big as his imagination. He was loving, passionate, and endlessly interesting. The world may be a little quieter without him, but the echoes of his life will resonate forever in the hearts of those who loved him.

Please join us in celebrating the life and love of 'Cheech' on Sunday, August 24, 2025, from 2:00–5:00 PM at Knights of St. Casimir's, 6th Street Hall: 649 6th St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. Lunch, desserts and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided. Cheech, may the Force be with you. Always.