Nov 24, 1962---Apr 21, 2023

 Bret Alexander, 60, of Shawnee, Kansas, passed away peacefully Friday, April 21, 2023, after a long, heroic battle against ALS at his home surrounded by his loving family.  A visitation will be held Wednesday, April 26, from 1:30-3:00 p.m. with funeral services to follow at 3:00 p.m. at the Porter Funeral Home, 8535 Monrovia, Lenexa, Kansas.

 

Bret was born November 24, 1962, in Davenport, Iowa, the son of Matt and Marian (Ellinwood) Alexander.  He grew up on a cattle farm in Appleton City, Missouri where he attained Scouting’s highest rank, Eagle Scout. He was an amazing athlete and played football throughout high school and college, and even played flag football for fun after school. Bret graduated from Pittsburg State University with a degree in Business Administration and Marketing and moved to Kansas City to pursue a career in aviation. He worked as a corporate pilot for Zurich for 22 years and continued flying for other corporations.  In 1993, he met the love of his life, Melodie Blackshear, and married her two years later.  Bret and Melodie raised three children and created a beautiful life together.  He was a craftsman, aviator, devoted father, and husband. He could famously build, fix, and create anything with his hands, but his favorite place to be was on a golf course. He enjoyed traveling and experiencing different courses throughout the country. Bret will be forever remembered as a trusted friend and kindest person who never met a stranger. Bret is preceded in death by his loving mother, Marian Alexander, and survived by his beloved wife Melodie, his sons, Matthew and Coleton Alexander, his niece, Rille Blackshear, his father Matt Alexander, and his brother Dean Alexander. Bret fought ALS fiercely and never gave up hope.  Although the family is heartbroken, they find great peace in knowing he is once again healthy and restored on the other side.

 



Condolences

Wade Newton Apr 23, 2023

Friends ,Lexington ,AL

Brett and I became friends when he came to Foley Alabama for treatment. He was such a great guy and a fighter. He became a brother to me and one I loved like a brother. I know without hesitation that he met his Lord and Savior when he breathed his last breath. I know I will see him again. Fly high my brother, you are now home!

Steven Anthony Apr 23, 2023

Friend ,Fort Scott ,Kansas

One of the greatest guys I have ever known. Thank you Bret for your friendship over the years.

Rozemma Apr 23, 2023

Friend ,Fort Scoot ,Kansas

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I’m so sorry for your loss.

Kevin Mitchell Apr 23, 2023

Friend ,Appleton City ,Missouri

Thoughts and prayers to the family. Kevin and Debbie Mitchell.

Chris and Hillary Braudis Apr 23, 2023

Friend ,Overland Park ,Kansas

The thing we loved about Bret was his kindness to everyone and how much he loved his family. He showed countless folks how to love unconditionally. Bret will always be remembered for the love he gave and the light that came with it. Watch over us and pray for us in heaven Bret??

Christy Masten Osborn Apr 23, 2023

High school friend ,Adrian ,Missouri

I’m so sorry/sad to hear of Brett’s passing and will keep his family in my thoughts and prayers. Brett and I met in high school , he was a great athlete and friend. His brother Dean and I were classmates, Melody was a few years younger than me.

Steve Rand Apr 23, 2023

Friend ,Middletown

My condolences, Bret was a great guy, will never forget our Mountain biking adventures.

Cathy Wright Apr 23, 2023

Classmate in Appleton City

Bret and I went to elementary school and part of high school together. He was a nice guy who was great at athletics and pretty much anything he set his mind to. I’m so sorry for your family’s loss of such a great man! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family! I pray for comfort for all of you.

Darren Davis Apr 23, 2023

Friend and teammate

My deepest condolences go out to Bret’s entire family. I was fortunate enough to be Bret’s teammate through middle and high school sports. It was pure joy to see what he could do with a football in his hands. He was a warrior and I’m sure he tackled his life with the same passion. My thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family.

Alice Herbst Claypool Apr 23, 2023

Prayers for the family. He fought the good fight and finished the race.

Caleb Osborn Apr 23, 2023

Friend ,Wichita ,Kansas

Bret was one of the best men I had the privilege of knowing. He was someone everybody wanted to be around. From his car rides he gave everyone, to his crazy death defying stories. He embodied what it meant to be a true friend and care for everyone. He will be greatly missed. His family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Terry Payne Apr 23, 2023

Friends from school ,Florence ,Missouri

Thoughts and prayers to the family.

Mr. and Mrs. Bret Loman Apr 23, 2023

Friends ,Clinton ,Missouri

Our deepest sympathy to the family.

Pat Burns Apr 23, 2023

Friend ,Seabrook Maryland ,Maryland

I first met Brett in 1981 I was an incoming freshmen at Fort Scott CC and played football with Brett, He was a one of a kind individual who never met a stranger... matter of fact i spent 1 weekend at his Family farm during a cattle sale for a city Boy like me something I will never forget, I send my heartfelt condolences to Brett's Family may he rest in eternal peace Much love Pat Burns.

Sam Elliott Apr 23, 2023

Coworker ,Knoxville ,Tennessee

Bret was a mentor to me, when I say to other pilots that “I learned this from a mentor and friend of mine in Kansas” he’s one of the two I’m talking about. He was patient and kind with us interns and I will remember forever all that he taught me.

Phil Jackson Apr 23, 2023

Friend ,Fort scott ,Kansas

Bret- I still cannot believe this. Trusted this guy with my life as he flew me all over the US. He was always first class! Keep a set of clubs warm for me up there. Prayers to your family from the Jacksons.

Kenny Baker Apr 23, 2023

Friend ,Lakeland ,Florida

Melody and children, we send our deepest sympathy and unwavering support. Wishing you God’s peace, comfort, courage, and much love at this time of sorrow. Our heart goes out to Melody and family, at this difficult time. Wishing you only the best and know you have my full support in every moment. Bret was that one person, whom I will never forget his kind spirit he always had about him. 1 Thessalonians 5:9-11 For God chose to save us through our Lord Jesus Christ. For Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever. So encourage each other with these words and build each other up, just as you are already doing.

CJ Warner Apr 23, 2023

Friend ,Henderson ,Texas

Melody, I am sorry for your families loss. I never had the chance to meet you two in person, but considered you friends. I am so sorry we had to meet because of ALS.

Penny Garver Apr 24, 2023

Friend ,Indianola ,Iowa

My sympathy to Bret's family. He was a sweet boy, always smiling and cheerful. He was an excellent athlete, as many have said, but most of my memories of Bret are from Band. He was a talented trumpet player and a bit on the ornery side. He made class entertaining. Rest well, sweet Bret, you deserve it.

Mike Eppright Apr 24, 2023

former coworker ,GODDARD ,Kansas

So sorry to hear of Bret's passing. During our time flying together at Zurich, Bret was always full of life. May Melody and Bret's family remember those times.

Dustin Doherty & Family Apr 24, 2023

Colleague ,Paola ,Kansas

My deepest condolences to Melodie and the rest of the Alexander family. When I try and think of some of the best people I’ve ever known; Bret is one that comes to mind. I feel blessed to have even known him and flown with him. He was a true light to everyone he came into contact with. His energy and friendliness was contagious and he will be greatly missed. Prayers to the family.

Lynn Faulkender Apr 24, 2023

UUG/Zurich co-worker ,Gardner ,Kansas

Karen Steinkamp and I worked closely with Bret and the pilots. We had a very fun group and were always playing pranks on each other. My thoughts and prayers go out to Bret and his family.

Austyn Apr 24, 2023

Friend ,Dallas ,Texas

Bret was a great man, even after all these years and only knowing him for a short time he still remained in my heart. Praying for your family

Sandy Cline Apr 24, 2023

cousins ,Carthage ,Missouri

Bill Alexander's families would like you to know we are thinking of your families at this time. Prayers for healing! Sandy and Gayle Cline Nancy and Tim Conard Guy and Teresa Gayle Alexander

Amy Fisher Apr 24, 2023

Friend ,Fort Scott ,Kansas

Mel, this saddens me to the core. I witnessed first hand the love you had for each other and you always spoke of Bret with such honor, love and respect, I know he will be so dearly missed. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Pam Cowan Apr 24, 2023

Friend ,Fort Scott ,Kansas

My thoughts and prayers for Melodie and family during this difficult time.

Betty and Gerald Stephan Apr 24, 2023

Friend ,Appleton City ,Missouri

Brett gave my kids their first ride in an airplane. He was a neighbor boy that was an amazing athlete. Matt and Punkie were so proud of his accomplishments. His dad Matt used to bring Cole and little Matt over to the house for a visit occasionally. I'm sure he is with Punkie right now. Prayers extended to the entire family.

Thomas Clark Apr 24, 2023

Friend in college ,Hot Springs Village ,Arkansas

So sorry for your loss

Eugene and Nancy Nichols Apr 24, 2023

Former teacher, Appleton City, and family friend ,Saint Charles ,Missouri

Melodie and kids, Matt, and Dean, we are so sorry for the loss of your loved one. All of you have been through so much, fighting this horrible, evil disease. Bret was one of my students at ACHS, where he excelled at everything he tried; and, as one classmate wrote, was also exceedingly fun-loving and ornery! His beautiful eyes would twinkle even more when he and his buddy Kevin were up to something. Reading his obituary, I can see that he lived and loved life well in his too-short time, and that is a good lesson for all of us.

Ray Pat Apr 25, 2023

Friend ,Blue Springs ,Missouri

To Dean and the rest of the family, my condolences.

Rebekkah Caponetto Apr 25, 2023

Bret used to fly out of the hangar I work at. He was always so nice and said hi to me every time I saw him. He is going to be missed. Thoughts and prayers to all of Bret's family.

sterling scott Apr 25, 2023

Friend ,Parkville ,Missouri

Bret and I were roommates when he came to Kansas City for his first flight job. We had a lot of fun for years golfing, biking and even took a plane on a canoe trip that Bret piloted with a bunch of guys that was memorable for all. Then Bret met Mel and his life erupted with a new spark as he embarked on the role as a Husband and Father and like everything in life that he set out to accomplish, he did that to Perfection. You will be missed My Friend!

David Zink Apr 25, 2023

Friend ,Boca Raton ,Florida

So sorry to hear about the passing of Bret our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and many friends.

Lorena Pérez Ruiz Apr 25, 2023

Longtime Alexander’s family friend ,Brampton, Canada

Bret, fly high my dear and Rest In Peace. Reunite with my beloved Marián. I remembered your first visit to Mexico with your Dad, Mom and Dean. We have such a great time with both families. We always considered you our second family, the one in the USA. We didn’t see you often but we have great memories that we are going to cherished forever. We didn’t have the fortune to meet your kids in person but we heard all about them through your parents and brother. You fought hard and now you are healed and in peace. We will always remember that beautiful smile of that beautiful human being that you were. We will live you forever. The Perez Ruiz Family

Adam Theye Apr 26, 2023

Flight crew, golfing buddy, mentor, friend. ,Cincinnati ,Ohio

Mel, words can’t describe how sorry I am for your loss. Bret was the single most influential person in my entire aviation journey. His leadership and passion helped mold me into who I am today. I will continue to pray for you and your family. With love and support, Adam

VINCE JOHNSTON Apr 26, 2023

Old Friend - College Teammate ,Pittsburg ,Kansas

Such A Great Person, Friend & Teammate. I Had The Pleasure Of Having Bret’s Friendship While In College At Ft. Scott & Pitt State. We Palled Around Quite A Bit Back In Those Days. A Few Of The Things I Remember Most From That Time Are The Many Opportunities I Was Able To Go Up With Bret In His 1st Plane As His Piloting Career Was Just Getting Underway. Also I Had The Opportunity For The 1st & The Last Time To Try Mountain Oysters ?? That He & I Dressed Up One Evening!???? All My Thought And Prayers Go Out To His Wife, Kids & Extended Family & Friends. RIP My Friend.????

gerry cecil Apr 27, 2023

friend--business acquaintance ,marthasville ,Missouri

Melodie We have never met--but I knew your husband well enough to recently reach out and stay in touch. I had no idea that he was struggling with ALS until I contacted him for some charter flight info. When he advised of his situation, I was quite taken back as very familiar with the journey you were on, given a similar situation with the husband of one of my cousins. We spoke of his fascination with flying and think I correctly recall his stories of building a plane, flying at a young age. Living in a small town--Appleton City--I grew up in Sedalia-. Commitment to flying private jets. Football at MU and then Pittsburgh State. His farming accident that took a finger from one hand, etc, ........ When you spend so much time on the road--or in the air together--you do get to know each other I am sure that I am not alone remembering Bret and his easy smile and confidence. He and Dave Needles flew us around the country in my days with UU as we presented programs to each of the 27 regional offices at the time. Meetings at Cape Cod, Orlando, Seattle, Irvine, Panama City .....on and on. And yes--we even played golf a time or two--and of course he out drove and outplayed us all. What a great guy and professional who went about his business--but also shared his youthful enthusiasm and excitement to fly-- I trust that you and your kiddos will remember him and his example of a confident, happy, loving, sharing life to comfort and guide you... My Condolences Gerry Cecil

Amy Jaramillo Apr 27, 2023

Mel, I'm heartbroken to see this. Brett was amazing. I think about every hug he gave me, such a warm, loving man. My heart goes out to you and the family.

Derrick Watts Apr 30, 2023

Former football opponent ,Shawnee ,Kansas

I’m very sorry for your loss and we pray for peace for the Alexander family. I was an old flag football opponent who really enjoyed battling against Brett close to 30 yrs ago. I haven’t seen or talked to him since that time but appreciated knowing him and competing against him. Sorry for your loss. Derrick Watts

Photo Gallery

Services

Event:
Visitation
Location:
Porter Funeral Home
Address:
8535 Monrovia St.
City:
Lenexa
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66215
Date:
Apr 26, 2023
Time:
1:30 PM
Google Map:
Event:
Funeral Service
Location:
Porter Funeral Home
Address:
8535 Monrovia St.
City:
Lenexa
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66215
Date:
Apr 26, 2023
Time:
3:00 PM
Google Map: