Obituary of Alexander A. Evangelista

Alexander A. Evangelista, 64, passed away unexpectedly on September 29, 2017 at the Cortland Regional Medical Center. He was born August 24, 1953 in Cortland. A lifetime local resident, Alex graduated from Homer High School in 1971. Soon after, he joined the U.S. Army serving three years in Germany and was subsequently honorably discharged. He retired from SUNY Cortland in 2008 after over twenty dedicated years and was most recently working part-time for NAPA. He was a very active member of the 149th New York Volunteer Infantry, North-South Skirmish Assoc (N-SSA) and was an excellent shot. Alex enjoyed the outdoors and was also an avid hunter. His greatest joy was spending time with his family and friends who will never forget his sense of humor. Known by many nicknames, including , "Unkie Al the Kiddie Pal," his favorite of the last ten years was "GrampE." He is survived by his wife of 41 yrs. Bonnie Rawson Evangelista, his son Alex D. (Kristen) Evangelista, his siblings Marie Kniffen, Anthony (Darlene) Evangelista, Francis (Anna) Evangelista, and Marianne Evangelista, his grandchildren Alaina, Reese, and Derek, his sister and brother in law Janet and Seymour Bradshaw, sister in law Phyllis Guinn, several nieces, nephews, and cousins, along with countless friends including Jim Smith, and Terry and Sharon Whipple. He was predeceased by his parents Alexander A. and Mary Catalano Evangelista and his brother in law Richard Kniffen. Calling hours will be held Tuesday 9-10:45 am with a funeral service to begin 11 am at the Wright-Beard Funeral Home at 9 Lincoln Avenue, Cortland NY, 13045 led by Chaplain Norm Stitzel. Burial will immediately follow at St. Mary's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you please consider a donation to the North-South Skirmish Association at www.n-ssa.org. The N-SSA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit preserving the history of the American Civil War and honoring the efforts of those who fought in it.