Stephen “Steve” S. Alexander, 71, of Indianapolis passed away on May 4, 2021. Steve’s long, arduous battle with cancer came to an end quietly and without struggle. He surrendered the weapons of treatment and entered Hospice care with the same grace he displayed during the fight.
Steve loved his family fiercely and found no greater pleasure than in the company of his sons and their families. His sister was one of his favorite people, and he treasured time in her company. He adored his granddaughter Lola and was a willing participant in tea parties and silly games.
His courage and fortitude during the years since his diagnosis were matched only by his determination to use his own illness to assist other cancer patients. In 2014, Steve created Ride for a Purpose, a charitable organization that provided financial resources to help cancer patients meet everyday costs. He paid rent, made car payments, bought groceries, paid utilities. He impressed his family, friends, doctors, nurses, and social workers with his willingness to look beyond his own situation to help others.
Steve loved riding his Harley, and he loved the community of his fellow riders. Using that love to raise money for his foundation merged his passion for riding with his passion for helping others.
Steve’s professional career leading not-for-profits spanned twenty years, including serving as Executive Director of three YMCAs. He loved the mission and accomplishments of Ys, the youth development, community engagement, and cross-continent partnerships. He has friends across Europe as a result of his work with the international organization.
For those interested in a memorial contribution, please consider Happiness Bag, Steve’s first not-for-profit. His love for the organization never waned and he supported it until the end.
Steve is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Margie Alexander; his children, Scott (Stephanie) Alexander and Brian Alexander; his sister, Angie Radel; and his beloved granddaughter, Lola Ann Alexander.
Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Joan Alexander, and his brother, Dick Alexander.
A celebration of life will be held Monday, May 10, 2021 at Flanner Buchanan—Washington Park East, 10722 E Washington St. at 2PM. Friends may gather from 1PM until service time.