Alex John Kirschner, Sr., 97, passed away on Monday, May 23, 2016, in Lake Jackson, Texas.

A lifelong resident of Galveston, Alex was born on July 4, 1918. He attended Galveston Public Schools, and in his senior year of Ball High School, quit to start working his career. He worked for Todd Shipyards as a carpenter for 16 years and in 1952 left Todd’s and finished his carpentry career with W. F. Bell Contractor, retiring after 28 more years. Alex was a member of the Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 526 for more than 60 years.

Alex proudly served his country during World War II in the United States Navy Seabees, serving 2 ½ years in the South Pacific. He was a member of the National Rifle Association and Galveston Rifle & Pistol Club.

Alex was preceded in death by his loving wife and sweetheart of 74 years, Gertrude H. Kirschner; and his parents, J.C. and Mollie Kirschner.

Alex is survived by his son, Al Kirschner, Jr. and wife, Doddie, of Lake Jackson; a daughter, Gertrude (Bitsy) Ganter and her husband, Dorrance, of Seabrook; 6 grandchildren: Beth O’Malley and husband Tom, Nancy Ganter, Susan Ganter, Cathy Cooper and husband Clay, Jay Kirschner and wife Jennifer, and Jeff Kirschner and wife Kristi; 11 great grandchildren; sister, Betty Michalsky and husband, Danny; and numerous other relatives and friends.

Alex’s family will receive visitors beginning at 5:00 pm on Thursday, May 26, 2016 at Malloy & Son Funeral Home on Broadway in Galveston. A rosary will begin at 6:30 pm.

Funeral Mass will begin at 1:30 pm on Friday, May 27, 2016, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Galveston, with Father Orrin Halepeska officiating. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery in Galveston.

Pallbearers will be grandsons, Jay Kirschner and Jeff Kirschner; great grandsons, Mike O’Malley, Matthew O’Malley and Daniel O’Malley; and grandson-in-law, Clay Cooper.

Memorials may be made to Holy Family Parish, 1010 35th Street, Galveston, TX 77550, or the charity of one’s choice.