Earl Keith Alpha

Earl Keith "Buster" Alpha, 90, passed away on September 9, 2026, at Francis House in Syracuse following a long battle with Parkinson's disease. 

Born on March 26, 1936, in South Canaan, Pennsylvania, he was the son of Russell Alpha and Virginia Fielding. Earl graduated from Waymart High School in 1954 and competed as a Golden Gloves boxer during the early to mid 1950's.  

In 1955, he married Sandra at St. Mary's Church in Waymart, Pennsylvania. Together, they shared 71 years of marriage.  Earl proudly served in the United States Army from 1955 to 1957, attaining the rank of Specialist while serving at Fort Dix and in Germany. 

Following Earl's military service, he owned and operated a small dairy farm in Pennsylvania.  He moved to Central New York in the early 1960's and worked as a maintenance mechanic at Auburn Steel Mill and later at the Owens-Illinois bottle plant from 1977 to 1997. 

An avid fisherman and hunter, Earl also worked as a charter boat captain on Lake Ontario. A talented and hardworking builder, he constructed several houses in his spare time for his children and family. 

Earl is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra; his four children, Kenneth, Karen (Robert) Weigand, Kevin and Kurt (Kathleen); six grandchildren; four great-grandchildren and his brother, Matthew Mattia.  He was predeceased by his parents, Russell Alpha and Virginia Fielding. 

Earl will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his many talents, his love of the outdoors, and, most of all, his devotion to his family.  

A private family service to honor Earl's life will be held at Bush Funeral Home, 120 E. Main St. Elbridge.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Francis House in Syracuse in Earl's memory. 

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