First Son

Alexander Campbell was born in 1894 in Syracuse, N.Y. and grew up in that city. As did his brothers, he attended Central High School, graduating circa 1911, and then attending Syracuse University where he was a member of Sigma Chi fraternity. The First World War was under way as he completed college and he entered the service and was a pilot. Shortly after graduation from college he married Marguerite (Rita) Cochrane, the daughter of William and Kathryn Cochrane of Gloversville, N.Y. which is a small city just north of the Thruway and about mid-way between Syracuse and Albany.

Alex had an allergy to the cooler weather of Central New York and Rita and he moved to the New York City area, living for many years in Yonkers, a city just north of New York City. Alex was employed for all of his life with Traveler's Insurance Company in New York City where he rose to be vice-president. At a point around 1949, Alex and Rita purchased a house in Massapequa which is on Long Island and lived there for many years.

Rita predeceased her husband. Alexander Campbell died in November of 1987 in Ballston, N.Y. in Saratoga County where he had resided in an assisted living residence for a period before his death.

Alexander was very much like his father as he knew many people during his life. His father was perhaps more outgoing while Alexander tended to be more reserved but they shared a sense of wit. Alexander could be much more sarcastic than his father in proving a point. His main interest, during his life was his family.

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