Palmer resident Everett W. Brighton, 86, died peacefully Nov. 16, 2007, of natural causes at his home.

A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Dec. 8 at Kehl’s Palmer Mortuary. Family and friends will gather at his home afterward.

Brighton was born Nov. 16, 1921, in Ferndale, Wash., to Walter and Fronia Brighton. He grew up in the Ferndale/ Bellingham area, graduating from Bellingham High School in 1941. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II with the 5th Armored Division. Brighton was cited for gallantry in combat and awarded the Bronze Star. While stationed in Belgium, he met and married Josephine Franz on March 23, 1945, in Welkenraedt.

In 1964, he and his family came to Alaska, where he worked for the Department of the Army, the Federal Aviation Administration and Housing and Urban Development. He retired from HUD in 1980, moving to Canoe Lake in Palmer with his wife.

Brighton was a life member of the Elks and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was also a member of FAA’s bowling league and an avid bowler for many years. He enjoyed golfing, hunting, bird watching and being with his family. He was a loving father, grandfather and husband, and had a kind heart, good sense of humor and easy smile.

Brighton is survived by his daughter Rachael (Ray) Jeffers of Anchorage; grandchildren, James, Jeffrey and Rebecca Jeffers of Anchorage; sister, Betty Tawes of Ferndale; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Josephine.

Condolences may be sent to 1519 Marten St., Anchorage, AK 99504.