Alex Umanetz, Jr. was born on January 18, 1932, in Great Neck, New York. He was raised in the Great Neck area and graduated from Great Neck High School in 1949. He went on to attend Lehigh University, graduating in 1953 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering.

Alex began his distinguished career at the Sparrows Point Plant in July 1953 as a looper in the Industrial Engineering Department. He was assigned to the mechanical maintenance sections of the department, where his work encompassed all areas of the plant.

In November 1953, Alex entered the United States Army as a Second Lieutenant, serving in the United States and Europe. He was honorably discharged in November 1955 with the rank of First Lieutenant. Following his military service, he continued on a leave of absence from Sparrows Point to attend Columbia University, where he began work toward a master's degree in Industrial Engineering. He returned to the Sparrows Point Plant during summer breaks for brief periods. In February 1957, Alex was granted a second leave of absence to return to Columbia University and complete his master's program. Upon completing the program in June 1957, he returned to the Sparrows Point Plant.

Alex steadily advanced throughout his career, being promoted to Chief Industrial Analyst in 1961, Industrial Engineer in 1964, and Assistant Plant Industrial Engineer in 1965. In 1978, he was appointed Plant Industrial Engineer, a position he held for thirty years until his retirement.

Throughout his career at the Sparrows Point Plant, Alex was involved in all aspects of Industrial Engineering as well as the management functions associated with the operations of a large steel plant. His extensive knowledge, dedication, and leadership were valued throughout his many years of service.

Alex was also active in his community and professional organizations. He served as president of the Engineers' Club of Sparrows Point. He was an active member of the Sparrows Point Country Club and served for six years on its Board of Governors, including as secretary and as a member of the Executive Committee.

Outside of his professional life, Alex enjoyed many interests and hobbies. He loved reading, skiing, playing golf, and collecting coins. He was also an ardent follower of the stock market and the world of real estate.

Alex is survived by his longtime life partner, May Heidelmaier; dear friends whom he considered family, Dawn Reidy and her husband, Tim; George Heidelmaier, Jr. and his wife, Kathy; and Linda Baker and her husband, Rob; his loving grandchildren, Joseph Reidy and his wife, Katie; Sean Reidy and his partner, Lorna; Michael McLean, Jr. and his wife, Amanda; Racheal Chona and her husband, Deven; Thomas McLean and his partner, Grace; and Claire Baker; and his loving great-grandchildren, Scarlett Opal Chona, Georgia May Reidy, Gabriella Rose McLean, and Quinten Singh Chona.

Alex was predeceased by his parents, Alex and Sabena Umanetz; his sister, Lillan; and his brother-in-law, Charles.

Alex will be remembered for his accomplished career, lifelong curiosity, varied interests, and the lasting bonds he formed with those he loved and considered family.