Wasilla resident Ronald L. Meek, 52, passed away Sept. 20 at his home after a strong battle against cancer. Ron’s ashes will be spread over this great state that he loved to work and travel in.

He was born in Bellafonte, Penn., on April 18, 1957 and was the oldest boy of a family of six. He graduated from Bald Eagle High School and enlisted in the Air Force. He served four years, some in Korea and was then honorably discharged.

Ron came to Alaska in 1979 where he worked for Alaska Helicopters as a helicopter mechanic for 15 years. In 1989 he met his second wife Carol while working in Kodiak on the Exxon oil spill. For a short time he worked logging operations in Oregon and California before being sent to work in Australia  and New Guinea. Ron and Carol arrived back in the states just in time for their daughter Molly to be born at which time they returned to Alaska. When Alaska Helicopters was purchased Ron went to work for Evergreen Helicopters where he has worked for the last 15 years. Ron loved to hunt and fish and fought his illness with determination so he could hunt the 2009 moose season. Ron, his brother Dick and his nephew Heath brought home a big bull moose just last week.

He is survived by his wife of 20 years Carol, children Erik Meek, Meghan Werth , Will Hinman, Jon Hinman, Molly Meek and grandchildren, Indiana, Chayse, Lucie and Nathaniel. He is also survived by his sister Tena Miles, Shawn Meek, Richard Meek and Russell Meek along with numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, Ron’s wish was to have donations go to the cancer cure research group in Bethesda, NY.

Arrangements were entrusted to the Hasara Family at the Cremation Society of Alaska. An online guestbook can be signed at alaskacremation.com.