Lieutenant Commander Alexander Michael “Kaz” Kaczkowski, age 40, passed away on July 22, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering service, boundless love for his family, and a life dedicated to excellence.
Born on May 22, 1986, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Manya and Jerome Kaczkowski. Alex was raised with a strong work ethic, an adventurous spirit, a deep sense of humor, and a profound inner drive that would shape every chapter of his life. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee with a bachelor’s degree in economics and worked at a non-profit, before answering the call to serve his country.
In 2011, Alex enlisted in the United States Navy with the goal of serving in Naval Special Warfare. Through extraordinary perseverance and determination, he completed the demanding Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training and earned the coveted title of United States Navy SEAL. He was assigned to SEAL Team TEN, where he quickly distinguished himself through courage, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to his teammates.
Never satisfied with simply following, Alex aspired to lead. He earned his commission as a Naval Officer, bringing with him the unique perspective and credibility of an enlisted SEAL, an “E-dog”, combined with remarkable intelligence and humility. His ability to lead by example earned the respect and admiration of everyone entrusted to his command. In April 2026, after completing a two-year deployment cycle as a Platoon Commander with SEAL Team TWO, he was promoted and selected to remain with the Team as a Troop Commander, a testament to the confidence his fellow warriors placed in his leadership.
Those who knew Alex affectionately called him “Kaz.” He was a husband, father, Navy SEAL, leader, mentor, and loyal friend. He was the kind of person you thought you had figured out, only to discover there was always another fascinating chapter to his story. From his time as a guitarist in a band, competing in amateur MMA fights, entering food-eating competitions, exploring the world, painting, writing music, or mastering a new challenge, Kaz lived with curiosity, humility, and a fearless willingness to embrace life.
Alex’s pursuit of excellence extended well beyond the battlefield. He earned a master’s degree from the U.S. Navy War College and was actively pursuing another degree at the time of his passing. Yet despite his military achievements and academic accomplishments, Alex would tell anyone that his greatest title was husband and father.
His family was the center of his world, and nothing brought him greater pride or joy than spending time with his wife and children. Alex shared a loving and devoted marriage with his wife, Kalpa, and together they built a home filled with laughter, adventure, and unconditional love. He was extraordinarily proud of his three children, Nia (11), Quinn (9), and Ayla (6), who were the greatest blessings of his life. Whether he was swimming with the kids, throwing a football, shooting hoops in the driveway, playing catch, wrestling in the living room, jamming out on guitar, grilling in the backyard, or simply enjoying a quiet day together, Alex treasured every moment with his family.
Outside of his military service, Alex embraced life with enthusiasm and creativity. His youthful musician days cultivated a lifelong love of music and songwriting. He also enjoyed painting, reading, traveling, visiting museums, practicing jiu-jitsu, watching football and wrestling, and participating in nearly any sport. Above all, he valued simply being together with the people he loved. His adventurous spirit, infectious sense of humor, and willingness to try anything made every gathering brighter. His kindness, humility, and quiet confidence left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Alex is survived by his beloved wife, Kalpa; his cherished children, Nia, Quinn, and Ayla; his father, Jerome “Jerry” (Susan Nolan) Kaczkowski; his sister, Shelly (Christopher) Sines; his niece, Ivy; his nephew, Henry; and many extended family members, fellow service members, brothers in Naval Special Warfare, and countless friends whose lives were forever enriched by his leadership, compassion, loyalty, and friendship.
He was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Manya Kaczkowski.
The loss of Alex has left an immeasurable void in the hearts of all who knew him. As a husband, father, warrior, leader, and friend, his influence reached far beyond his family and teammates. Alex lived a life defined by honor, sacrifice, integrity, compassion, and love. He served his nation with distinction, pursued knowledge with relentless determination, inspired those around him through quiet leadership, and loved his family with his whole heart. The example he set will continue to guide those who had the privilege of serving beside him, and the love that he gave will endure in the memories of all who loved him.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, August 17. Alex will be laid to rest with Full Military Honors at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 17, at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery. Condolences may be shared with the family online at AltmeyerFH.com. Altmeyer Funeral Home Southside Chapel is honored to serve the Kaczkowski family during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Navy SEAL Foundation, in Alex’s honor.
Though his passing leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the example of integrity, service, and love that he leaves behind.
Fair winds and following seas, Alex. Your watch is complete.
