Rev. Canon Alexander Aiton (-2018)

ALTON

Posted By: Mark Christian
Date: 5/17/2021 at 16:53:11

Obituary from Des Moines Register, Des Moines, Iowa, August 8, 2018.

The Reverend Canon Alexander Anthony Aiton, 68, of Ames, passed away on July 30, 2018, after a courageous battle with cancer. A celebration of his life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 11, 2018 at St. John's-by-the-Campus Episcopal Church, Ames. Bishops Alan Scarfe and C. Christopher Epting will preside at the service. A visitation in the same location will be held on Friday, August 10 from 5-7 p.m. Memorial gifts may be directed to St. John's Endowment Fund.

Al graduated from Kearny High School in New Jersey, and completed degrees from the City University of New York, the General Theological Seminary and Drew University. Dedicating his life to the Episcopal ministry for more than 40 years, he served in parishes in Rumson, Palmyra, and Salem, New Jersey, served on the Bishop's staff in the Episcopal Diocese of Central Pennyslvania, and in Ames for the past 27 years. He retired as rector of St. John's-by-the Campus in December 2017.

Al had many gifts he shared during his lifetime including his strong faith and love of God, his wonderful sense of humor and his storytelling. Over the years, he served on many committees both in the community and the Episcopal Diocese. He loved his cats and dogs, was an avid reader, enjoyed many years of camping and spending time with family, especially his grandchildren.

Survivors include three daughters (Becci, Grace and Joy), a son-in-law (Jeff), six grandchildren (Bailey, Keegan, Charlotte, Mya, Parker and Sophie), former spouse and friend Joan, two sisters (Cathie and Joanne), and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and one son. He will be greatly missed by all whose lives he touched.