Alejandro "Alex" Medina, Jr.

Alejandro “Alex” Medina, 41, of Chicago, Illinois, passed away on October 17, 2025.

Alex was born on January 12, 1984, the beloved son of Alejandro and Maria (Chavez Ayala) Medina. He attended Benito Juarez High School, where he was a standout athlete and a popular student. Alex joined the wrestling team and later the football team, where his tackles earned him the nickname “Kurt Angle.” He held the school record for the most push-ups for years and was even crowned Homecoming King.

A student of martial arts, Alex trained in Tae Kwon Do, becoming a champion in numerous tournaments, earning his black belt, and even serving as a young instructor. His determination, discipline, and work ethic defined him from a young age.

As a teenager, Alex would shovel snow for his landlord on Cullerton Street to earn extra money, always eager to help his parents and stand on his own feet. While still in high school, he began working at a foundry, a metal factory; demonstrating his commitment to being a provider. While his friends played football outside, Alex often came home from work covered in dust, face dirty, wearing his heavy work boots, proud of his effort and independence. He was someone who was respected even by people who didn’t know him well. Growing up, Alex was known amongst close friends to have a unique, unfiltered sense of humor and goofy antics. He grew up so fast that the child in him came out often.

After graduating, Alex set his sights on the waste industry. He earned his CDL after high school, but was told he was too young and inexperienced to be hired. Determined as ever, he gained experience elsewhere, returned two years later, and earned the job he wanted.

Alex built a successful 19-year career with Republic Services, where his dedication and skill earned him deep respect and continued with his unstoppable drive. He was chosen to ride with the CEO, placed third in a national skills competition, and went on to become both a swing driver and a driver trainer. His work was more than a job, it was a source of pride and a way to give his family a beautiful home that was filled with love for many, many years and a secure life for his family.

Above all, Alex was a devoted father who loved his children with all his heart. He was a family man who put family above all else. He was loved and admired by many, especially his four children, who will forever cherish the joy, love, strength and the ability he shared with them to aspire for more. He is survived by his four beloved children—Alexis, Stella, Kingston, and Solene—his loving parents Alejandro and Maria Medina, his brother Juan, and his sister Maria.

Alex’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

"The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”

— Psalm 34:18

Family and friends will gather from 3 to 8:00 pm on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 and Thursday, October 30th from 8 to 9:00 am at Walter Pomierski & Son Funeral Home, 1059 West 32nd Street, Chicago, IL 60608. Mass will follow Thursday, October 30th, 10:00 am at St. Pius V Church INT. Mt. Auburn Cemetery (773)927-6424