AUBURN — Alexander “Sandy” Lobozzo, 94, well-known local businessman and pastor, died Tuesday, Dec. 6, at Odd Fellow’s and Rebekahs’ Home of Maine. Alzheimer’s claimed his body, but his compassionate, loving spirit was on display until the end, and is an enduring legacy for all who knew him.

He was born in Auburn, Nov. 1, 1917, one of four children born to Vincenzo and Mary Lobozzo. He graduated from Edward Little High School in 1935, joined the National Guard, and served his country in World War II as a staff sergeant in the South Pacific. His ingenuity and creativity was evident as a young man exhibiting the traits that would make him a successful businessman. While in the Solomon Islands, he engineered a way to keep critical communications equipment dry in the extreme tropical humidity. This lead to a commendation and recommendation for officers training, and he quickly rose to the distinguished rank of captain.

On Aug. 28, 1942, he married Dorothy Huff. After the war, he trained in Boston as a neon tube bender and returned home to establish NeoKraft Signs in 1947. He was an active member of the community and served as president of the Jaycees in the 1950s. At that time, many will remember that he was hired by the city to install Christmas decorations on Lewiston streets putting his sign business crane equipment to good use during slow winter months. He also brought his glass blowing craft into the local schools demonstrating the skill that made him a success. His visits are still fondly remembered by many baby boomers in this community.

In 1982, he sold his sign business and went on to establish Eastgate Christian Fellowship in New Gloucester, where he faithfully served the congregation as pastor until he was no longer physically able. Throughout the 80s and 90s, Alex and Dorothy spent many hours together, with family, and fellow Christians on lakes throughout Maine doing the thing that they enjoyed most as youngsters; fishing. The stories of adventure and mishap are endless, some funny and some hair-raising. Everyone jokes that they had so many Guardian angels assigned to keep them safe that there was a shortage for the rest.

Alex instilled a reverence for God in everyone he met. His compassion, humility, strong work ethic and love of people brought comfort and blessing into the lives of countless people throughout his lifetime. Alex and Dorothy spent untold hours counseling individuals in need of love and encouragement. Little known is that Alex visited nursing homes in the L-A area weekly for more than 15 years, ministering to people he had never known, his only compensation being the comfort and assurance of God’s love that he could bring to them.

Alex is survived by his wife, Dorothy of 68 years; one son, Vincent Lobozzo and his wife, Patricia, of Lewsiton; four daughters, Judith and husband, Tom Dow, of Lewiston, Maria and late husband, Rik Michaud, Joanne and husband, Ron Giasson, both of Auburn and Suzanne and husband, Llewellyn Bowman III, of Wisconsin; and a total 51 grandchildren whom he has left his legacy of faith, hope and love with each and everyone of them.

He was predeseased by two brothers, Sam and George; and a sister, Josephine (Casson) Daigle.

The entire family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Odd Fellow’s who made his stay there dignified and enjoyable.

You are invited to share your thoughts, condolences and fond memories with the Lobozzo family by visiting their guest book at www.thefortingrouplewiston.com.