Alex Stangl

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected death of Alex Richard Stangl, 24, of Boulder Colorado. Alex died October 19, 2019. He was born November 25, 1994 to Teresa (Terry) Snyder and Mark Stangl.  Alex is also survived by his grandmother, Brenda Snyder, half-siblings Abigale Stangl and Tait Stangl (partner Eden Brecht and daughter Lily). He had many uncles, aunts, and cousins on both of the Stangl and Snyder side of the family.  He is also survived by a band of chosen brothers who shared many daring adventures with Alex.

Although only 24 at the time of his death, Alex touched many people’s lives in his lifetime. He had a strong and loving heart, and great interest and compassion for others. As a child, Alex had a mischievous and playful energy that would keep people on their toes. In fact, this energy did not fade as he entered into young adulthood. Easily humored by wry jokes and shenanigans, Alex would often erupt into contagious laughter. 

When he was feeling accomplished and optimistic about his future, Alex could inspire the best in himself and others. He would readily share his ideas and insights about life with family, friends, and people he encountered in life. He was curious about the world and self-reflective about his own path and close relationships. His grin could light up a room. 

Alex attended Mesa Elementary School, Southern Hills Middle School, and Fairview High School in Boulder, Colorado. A non-traditional learner, he graduated high school through the support of dedicated teachers and his mother. He found great solace and enjoyment through spending time with friends. 

After high school, Alex went on a great adventure to Australia and New Zealand, where he found a sense of belonging, friendship, inquisitiveness about the world, and an important sense of independence. Back in Colorado, Alex greatly enjoyed skiing with his father, going for hikes with his siblings and by himself, playing video games with friends, and listening to podcasts and music that expanded his mind. 

Alex worked in food services, and as an apprentice housing inspector. Guided by his father and a close family friend-Grove, he found a sense of accomplishment in performing his work efficiently and developing mechanical skills. As Alex continued to gain self-sufficiency and made decisions to be active and exercise, his family rejoiced.

All the while, Alex was weighed down by anxiety and depression. His seeking nature led him to explore the limits of his mind and body; he struggled through years of addiction that resulted in unhealthy behavior and his untimely death. Perhaps, in time, those who knew and loved Alex will find some relief in knowing that his suffering has ended.  His addiction was a cloud that loomed over the lightness of his being.

We will forever long for another chance to race him down the ski slope, take long drives or hikes through the mountains together, and sharing in our musing about the meaning of this beautiful life.

The man Alex was becoming encouraged us, and our love for that rascal boy will never cease. And yet, the senselessness of his addiction has taken from us a son, a grandson, a brother, a nephew, a cousin, a friend, and a kind, sensitive soul. We will always wonder what kind of man he may have become and miss his warm, loving spiritedness.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Natural Highs-Healthy Alternatives to Drugs & Alcohol. Here is the website and where you can donate:  https://www.naturalhighs.org or through Colorado Gives: https://www.coloradogives.org/Naturalhighs or donations can be made by mailing a check to:

Natural Highs
New Vista High School
700 20th Street
Boulder, CO 80302