January 27, 2013
Fraser, Alexander
Alexander James Fraser, 89, of Westwood died peacefully on January 26, 2013 at the Ellis Nursing Home in Norwood. He was born on May 5, 1923 in North Andover, MA, the son of Alexander Johnston Fraser and Margaret Cruickshank Fraser, both immigrants from Scotland.
Alexander graduated from Johnson High School in 1940 and attended the Massachusetts Maritime Academy, graduating in 1942 with certificates as Navigator and First Mate. World War II had begun and Alexander immediately shipped out on freighters bringing supplies to the troops in all parts of the world. He spent 2 years at sea, sailing on ships that were damaged by torpedoes, stopping in Antwerp for repairs and listening to the shelling at the Battle of the Bulge. Later, Al left his job at sea and took a position at Sears Roebuck and Co. where he worked for over 35 years.
Alexander loved music and took piano lessons and banjo lessons throughout his school years. He often played his instruments with his wife, Esther. The two would often play at senior centers, nursing homes, neighborhood parties and church gatherings. Another favorite pastime was fishing. Alexander had a small boat and he would usually put-out in Quincy harbor and fish all around the islands of Boston Harbor. In his younger days, Alexander would be found hunting in NH and often got a deer and once a bear. He was a Master Mason and a 60 year veteran of the Celestial Lodge, A.F. & A.M., Westwood, MA. An active member of the Islington Community Church for many years, Al later was active at the First Baptist Church of Westwood.
Alexander is survived by his two daughters Nancy Spaulding of Sandwich, NH and Kathleen Somerville and husband Douglas of Conway, NH, two grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was predeceased by his second wife, Esther Wade Fraser.
Visiting hours will be held from 2-4 pm on Thursday, January 31st at the Folsom Funeral Home, 649 High St. Westwood, MA, with a funeral service to celebrate his life held at the Funeral Home at 4 ‘o clock. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Celestial Lodge, 799 East St. Dedham, MA 02026.
Comments(2)
I am so sorry for the loss of Al, he was a patient at the Ellis Nursing home with my mom Rose. He was a delight and would always have a smile for all the residents. I would tell him he was a scamp and he would give me a slight hit with his cane. He always complimented me on my clothes and had a twinkle in his eye. He would shake hands with my mom every evening when he visited the Applewood unit. We will miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Joy Grinavic – Rose Connolly resident – Applewood unit
Aw. I have many wonderful memories with Uncle Al and Aunt Esther.