Alex McAlpine

Alec “Alex” H. McAlpine Jr., age 76, of the Sweetgrass area, passed away on Monday, June 2, 2014 at home surrounded by family.

Private family services will be held at a later date.

Alex was born December 13, 1937 in Sweetgrass, Montana to Alex and Catherine (Koepke).  He farmed and ranched in North Toole County for most of his life.  He graduated from North Toole County High School in 1956 and went on to college for a brief time.  He also served for the Montana Air National Guard.

Anyone who knew Alex, knew he loved Rodeo roping and team penning.  He was involved with the rodeo from a very young age and continued in later years with the Old Timers Rodeo.  Alex also enjoyed coaching various athletic teams, from Sunburst and Can Am baseball, Sweetgrass basketball, Junior High Football and Sunset Boxing.  Alex participated in the dart league and the pool league and was an avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys.

He is survived by his two sons, Jay (Wendy) and James; his two sisters Vi McKenzie of New Jersey and Rose Thompson of Harlowton, MT; his grandchildren Crystal, Jayleen, Mariah and Lane; 2 great grandchildren Kacey and Karter; and 5 nieces and nephews, as well as his beloved dog Teeka.

Alex was preceded in death by his parents, Ranger, and Thunder.

Memorial contributions can be made to North Toole County Fire Department or to Sunburst Baseball Association.  Arrangements have been entrusted to Whitted Funeral Chapel, Shelby.  Please visit Alex’s online memorial and leave a message of condolence for his family at www.whittedfuneralchapel.com .

“Cowboy Up.  It’s a long way from your heart”