Rex Allen Fraser, who spent more than half a century involved with the Contra Costa community, passed away at home on Friday, November 25, 2022, after a 10-year struggle with Alzheimer’s Disease. He was 89.

Rex was born in Lewiston, ID, the youngest of three children. He grew up in Boise, where his father George worked as a laborer and his mother Ruth became director of the church choir.

Music was a big part of the Fraser family, and Rex carried a love for singing into all chapters of his life. He sang in numerous church choirs, was heavily involved in Contra Costa Musical Theatre and later performed leading roles in Razzmatazz charity productions, bringing joy  to audiences from theatres to nursing homes. Insatiably curious and creative, he infused his children and grandchildren with a love for music, visual arts, performance, the outdoors, and a passion for learning.

His desire to always be doing something constructive drove his involvement in the community. He volunteered for numerous causes, served as president of the Rossmoor Lions Club, taught extension courses, and coached youth soccer way back in the 1970s.

Rex met his wife Phyllis when both were students in Boise. After serving in the US Army, he studied for his business degree at Michigan State, where he and Phyllis married. They remained together for more than 65 years.

A natural, gregarious salesman, Rex’s career included years in the printing industry. Nearing retirement, he joined Barnes and Noble as a Community Director, where he was in his element, hosting well-known authors and founding a popular business book club.

Rex was perpetually happy and optimistic. Even as he declined with Alzheimer’s – losing memory, speech and functioning - he retained his laugh and smile to the end, setting an example for all who loved him.

Rex is survived by his wife, his children Shawn and Christi, his sister Barbara, and his beloved grandkids Jessie, Rosalind, Riley and Alex. His brother Roy predeceased him.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund (curealz.org).