Alexander Lagunowich

Springfield – Alexander Lagunowich, 97, passed away peacefully on September 30, 2017.  He was a devoted husband, caring father, and superhero to two adoring grandchildren.

Alex served our country bravely in the Normandy Invasion, but humbly told only stories of the great Fish and Chips shops on the English coast. He then served his hometown selflessly as a firefighter for 30 years, retiring with the rank of Captain. And since superheroes never slow down, he then took a long string of part time jobs and traveled Europe extensively with his late wife of 69 years, Helen (Chickie) Lagunowich. Thankfully, he still had plenty of love and energy to give when his grandchildren arrived, and created countless memories of backyard ballgames, not-so-secret candy stashes, Disney coaster rides, and shared bowls of Friendly's Clam Chowder. He was always there with his trusty video camera at every school play, every track and field event, every birthday party - capturing the memories that now stand as a testament to a life well-lived.

Born in Springfield to the late George and Mary Lagunowich, he was predeceased by his wife Helen and his five siblings Michael, John, Nicholas, Alice Baldyga, and Vera Marotte. Left to carry on his legacy is his son Alexander Lagunowich Jr. and his wife Diane of Hampden; 2 grandchildren, Corey and his wife Karen, and Sarah; 5 great-grandchildren, Ian, Camden, Hayden, Sasha, and Kira; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

His family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff of Wingate for their care of Alex in his final years. Donations in Alex’s memory may be made to the Special Olympics of Massachusetts - Greater Springfield Area to further their mission in the life of his granddaughter and her fellow athletes.

Funeral services are on October 10, 2017 from 1 -2pm at New England Funeral & Cremation Center, LLC, 25 Mill Street, Springfield, MA, followed by burial with military honors in the Massachusetts Veterans' Memorial Cemetery in Agawam. www.nefcc.net