Alexander Schares

Alexander William Schares, born November 10, 1992, in Idaho Falls, Idaho, passed away unexpectedly of natural causes, leaving behind a heartbroken family and a community forever changed by his loss.

Alex lived with quiet strength, intelligence, and a steady moral compass. He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering Technology, Information Engineering Technology, from New Mexico State University, a reflection of his thoughtful mind, curiosity, and dedication to mastering complex challenges.

A lifelong martial artist, Alex devoted himself to the study and practice of Shotokan style karate, a discipline that shaped both his character and his life. Through years of perseverance, humility, and hard work, he achieved the rank of Fourth-Degree Black Belt at the New Mexico Shotokan Karate Dojo with Sensei Randy Sanders who became a lifelong mentor and friend. His passion for karate recently carried him to Okinawa, Japan, to deepen his study of the art obtaining a First-Degree Black Belt in Meibukan Goju Ryu style karate testing before Sensei Missaki Ikemayagi, a Ninth-Degree Black Belt. Beyond Okinawa, he went to Tokyo and Kyoto and had the time of his life. He was actively planning to return to Japan for his Fifth-Degree Black Belt. Beyond being an active student himself, he took pride in teaching others and passing on his knowledge.

Alex approached life with a spirit of adventure and wonder. He was scuba certified and especially cherished a recent scuba diving trip to Puerto Rico, where he found peace and joy exploring the beauty of the ocean. He was also an avid participant in MilSim (Military Simulation) events across New Mexico and Texas, where he formed strong bonds, shared laughter, and built lasting friendships grounded in trust and camaraderie. He was highly regarded among the local community for his dependability and sportsmanship.

Above all else, Alex was deeply devoted to his family. He is survived by his father, Mark Schares; his mother, Linda Sullivan; and his beloved sister, Elizabeth Sparks (née Schares), her husband Ryan, and his cherished niece Rebecca, who brought him immense joy and pride. They were the center of his world. Alex was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Reuben "Sully" Sullivan and Billie Sullivan (née Nichols), his paternal grandparents, Justin Schares and Dorothy Schares (née Rouse), and by his uncles, Timothy Schares and Michael Sullivan.

Alex will be remembered for his wit, gentle spirit, intellectual curiosity, and the love and quiet kindness he so naturally extended to his family, friends, and everyone fortunate enough to know him. Alex was a true friend; his steadfast support and unwavering presence shaped many lives. Though his life was far too short, it was filled with meaning, discipline, and genuine connection.

A Rosary/Memorial Service to be held at French Funerals & Cremations Chapel (7121 Wyoming Blvd. NE.) on Tuesday, January 20, beginning at 5:30 PM. A Funeral Mass will be held at Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Church (2621 Vermont Street, NE) on Wednesday, January 21, 10:00 AM, in accordance with Roman Catholic tradition, followed by a Graveside Service at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 11:40 AM, (7999 Wyoming Blvd. NE), followed by reception at the French Funerals & Cremations Reception Room.

May Alexander William Schares rest in eternal peace.