Dr. Alexander Schirger, age 87 passed away on Thursday February 14, 2013 at Saint Mary's Hospital on the feast day of Sts. Cyril and Methodius, patron saints of the Slavic peoples.

He was born on October 3, 1925 in Prague, Czechoslovakia to Alexius and Anna Schirger. He graduated from the Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague in 1950. Dr. Schirger immigrated to the United States in 1951 and in 1953 began his career with the Mayo Clinic, eventually practicing in Vascular Medicine until his retirement in 2004.  On August 7, 1965, after 14 years of having been separated by the communist government of Czechoslovakia, he was reunited with and married Milada Kloubkova, of Prague, Czechoslovakia, at St. Augustine's Church in St. Cloud, MN.  During his career, he served as President of the International Union of Angiology.  Care for his patients was a priority for him, and many of his patients became life-long friends.  Additionally, he loved to help young people develop their talents and careers.  In particular, he was happy to have the opportunity to help Czech and Slovak medical students and residents, providing clinical and research educational opportunities.  He was honored with the Tomas Masaryk award for his service to the Czech and Slovak people.  Dr. Schirger was a longtime member of St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. His faith in and love for Christ translated into loving service to family, friends, patients and anyone in need.

He is survived by his wife Milada, his son John (Zita) Schirger of Rochester, his daughter Annie (John) Mitchell of Omaha, four grandchildren Mary Jo, Rosie, Nathan, Christopher, a brother-in-law, Jan Kloubek of Prague, a niece, Lucie (Simon) Thomas and their children Sophie and Daniel of Plano, TX, and cousins Franta and Honsa Stach of Prague.

He is preceded in death by his parents, a sister-in-law Olga Kloubkova, and an uncle Dr. Anthony (Mary) Novotny.

The Funeral Mass will be held at 10:30 AM on Tuesday, February 19, 2013 at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church. Visitation will be held from 5:00PM to 8:00PM on Monday, February 18, 2013 at the River Park Chapel at Macken Funeral Home and one hour prior to services at the church. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery.

Memorials are preferred to St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Rochester, MN , Holy Name School in Omaha, NE and Trinity School at River Ridge in Eagan, MN.

Macken Funeral Home is handling the arrangements and online condolences are welcome at www.mackenfuneralhome.com