Ronald “Rex” Alton, 83, of Vincennes, Indiana, passed away peacefully on June 8th, 2023, with his family by his side. Rex was born on May 24, 1940, and was the son of Paul and Sylvia (Like) Alton. He graduated from Monroe City High School. He married the love of his life, Rita (Cates) Alton, and had a beautiful life together raising their children, Angie Haimes and Avery Alton.
Rex grew up farming with his father and brothers. He was employed by Reynolds Spring Factory (recently, known as, Johnson Controls) as a welder when he was a teenager. He moved on to start the first of many businesses. Alton Brothers Sandblasting which led him to acquire White River Materials near St. Thomas and the start of Rex Alton Companies. Rex Alton Companies soon acquired multiple locations to further the sand and gravel operations expanding into concrete and construction. He then started Midwest Fast Structures where he engineered and installed hoop buildings for many local and long-distance customers, all while maintaining his other operations and passions. Rex was responsible for successfully negotiating and developing multiple commercial properties including the old Prestolite Battery site, by doing so he brought many new businesses to the town of Vincennes .
He was innovative in doing business, always developing new ideas and better ways of doing things. He loved working within his businesses with his son Avery by his side. He holds one U.S. patent. He was the first person in North America to self-manufacture and use a 100’ air lift dredge. He was featured on the cover of Pit and Quarry Magazine for this achievement. He engineered and built the first free standing 20’ tall precast concrete wall.
Rex was a devoted Husband, loving Father and Grandfather. His family meant the world to him. Rex was proud to be an American and believed in hard work, charity work and helping others. Rex has been a proud supporter of the community. He always had a “What’s best for the community is what needs to be done” attitude, donating time and materials to a multitude of individuals and local organizations.
Rex is survived by his wife, Rita Alton; brother, Rick Alton, children, Angie Haimes (Tommy) and Avery Alton (Kayleigh); grandchildren, Jasper Haimes, Skylar Haimes, and Alius Alton. He is preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Sylvia Alton, and his brothers Lindy Alton and Kim Alton.
Per Rex’s wishes, there will be a celebration of life at a later date. If you are inclined to send flowers, please send them to his wife, Rita who is a resident at Bridgepointe Health Campus 1900 College Avenue, Vincennes, Indiana, 47591 as she would enjoy them in her room along with any visitors who would like to pay their respects directly. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Blue Jean Community Center in Monroe City. Goodwin-Sievers Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the care of Rex.
