Born 27 Sep 1919 in Croatia, Alex Stermac died on 31 Jan 2006. He came to Canada in 1953, after representing Yugoslavia in water polo at the 1948 Olympics.

He was the founding swimming coach of the Etobicoke Swim Club (EMAC). His impact was felt immediately as he coached swimmers to the 1954 Commonwealth, 1955 and 1959 Pan Ams and 1956 Olympics.

In 1959 he was Canada's head coach to the Pan American Games held in Chicago..

He retired from coaching in 1961, as the era of professional coaching was yet to arrive. He concentrated on a door manufacturing business.

Pre-deceased by his first wife Lillian, brothers Tony and Boris, he is survived by his wife of 25 years, Pauline, and various nieces, nephews and a stepdaugther.

He was a member of the Toronto Lawn and Tennis Club for 50 years, where he played tennis daily.