Alex L. Pronzato, 73, businessman

Alex L. Pronzato, 73, of Philadelphia, the founder and former president of the construction firm Pronzato & Associates Inc., died Monday, June 16, of cardiac complications at Christiana Hospital in Newark, Del.

Born in Philadelphia, Mr. Pronzato attended North Catholic High School before graduating from Pennsylvania State University, and Temple University. He also served in the Marine Corps.

"Alex was a man's man, known for his rugged good looks, undeniable charm and a trademark engaging smile," his family said in a tribute. "He was a down-to-earth guy with no pretenses, a man who helped and mentored many people young and old. He was fiercely loyal to friends and family, and uncompromisingly dependable, honest and free with his generosity."

Before he started his own firm, Mr. Pronzato worked for Lowell Eastman Developers in California. He went on to create his own construction firm at age 34 and served as president.

The company was based in Radnor and helped build more than 600 commercial properties on the Main Line, Philadelphia, and throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware. His clients included Barnes & Noble Bookstores, Bank of America, and Estee Lauder Cosmetics.

"He was very good at what he did, an exceptionally hard worker," said Marie Pronzato, his wife of 26 years.

But Mr. Pronzato was not all business. He played tennis and squash into his 70s, first at the Cynwyd Club in Bala Cynwyd and then at the Philadelphia Country Club.

He also was a fan of college football and basketball, and he loved to fish and boat in the Chesapeake Bay and at Ocean City.

Mr. Pronzato and his wife cooked and entertained often, and they specialized in Italian cuisine.

"He would wake up every morning at 8 a.m. and start cooking," his wife said, adding that her husband was known for his gourmet soups.

In his down time, Mr. Pronzato would dive into a book, usually a piece of historical literature or nonfiction.

"My husband was a real Renaissance man," Marie Pronzato said. "He was just one of those guys that everybody loved."

In addition to his wife, Mr. Pronzato is survived by his son, James, and daughter, Andrea.

A private memorial service was held Thursday, June 26, at the Chapel of St. David's Episcopal Church in Wayne. Burial was private.

Contributions in his name may be made to the Montgomery County SPCA, 519 E. Ridge Pike, Conshohocken, Pa. 19428.