Alexander N. Uszacki

Alex was born in Dunkirk, N.Y., on April 16, 1932 to Alexander W. and Helen (Dull) Uszacki. He graduated from St. Hedwig’s Grade School and St. Mary’s Academy.

He was married to Jackleen (Lentz) Uszacki on June 23, 1956. They were married 64 years.

Alex was a Korean War veteran serving as a corporal in the U.S. Armed Forces from 1952-54. His work career started at Dunkirk Radiators and included time with Alco Products, McClenathan’s Printing and retired from John Hancock Insurance Company as an agent. After retirement, he continued to work until age 80 at a business owned by his daughter.

Community Service was very important to Alex and he volunteered his time and talents to many groups. Alex was the 4th Ward councilman in Dunkirk from 1976-80. He served on the City of Dunkirk Youth Board and the Property Maintenance Board. In addition he served as scoutmaster of Kosciuszko Boy Scout Troop 83 for many years. He was a life member of Murray Hose 4 Fireman Company. His other memberships included DAV, Kosciuszko Polish Home, First Ward Falcons and Fourth Ward Falcons. He served as secretary and treasurer for the Kosciuszko Polish home from 1960-70 and again in 1990s.

Alex was a member of St. Hedwig’s Church where he and his wife, Jackleen were active in the Pre Cana program for 18 years. He was a member of the finance committee and a reader for 35 years.

Alex was an avid ball player. He loved fast pitch softball and played the game as a Figure 8 pitcher for 42 years well into his 50’s. He was inducted into the WNY Softball Hall of Fame.

Alex enjoyed gardening, cooking, hunting, fishing and was an avid swimmer. He was a kind gentleman who always helped others. He went out of his way to make visits to nursing homes to visit friends and family that were patients. He collected bottles and cans to give to those less fortunate and also provided daily meals to people he felt needed them. Many people were fortunate to be the recipients of furniture and clocks that he built. His front yard was a safe haven for the birds that he fed several times a day. He also loved his country and it was important to him that he always displayed the American flag. Alex leaves behind a legacy of compassion for others and love for his family.

Alex is survived by his wife of 64 years, Jackleen Lentz Uszacki; daughters: Lynn (Adolph) Herdzik, Susan (Dennis) Rak; sons: Allen Uszacki and Daniel (Kathleen Katta) Uszacki; and four grandsons: Robert Herdzik, Jon Herdzik, Adam and Abram Rak. He is also survived by other family members and friends.

Alex was predeceased in death by his parents, Alexander W. and Helen Dull Uszacki; his brother, Robert Uszacki; and granddaughter, Nicole Herdzik.

There will be no visitation. Alex has donated his body to the University of Buffalo Anatomical Gift Program. There will be a memorial service at a later date for family at the University of Buffalo.

Memorial donations may be sent to Dunkirk Free Library, 536 Central Ave., Dunkirk, NY 14048 in Alex’s name.