Alicia Rene Smith

Alicia Rene Smith, 53, passed away of natural causes Dec. 16, 2013, at her residence in Wasilla.

Alicia was born Jan. 8, 1960, to George and Nancy Papke in Garden City, Mich. After transferring to various work assignments the Papke family finally settled in Davenport, Iowa and Alicia finished high school there.

Alicia started her 35-year career with the Department of the Army in the Human Resources Department soon after high school.

Alicia transferred to Fort Richardson in October 2008 and was always taken aback by Alaska’s beauty.

On June 11, 2011, Alicia married Jeff Hightower and they spent 2 ½ wonderful years together.

Alicia was a member of Wasilla Christian Church and leaves behind many friends.

Alicia was also a member of the Alaska Cat Adoption Team and helped take in foster cats make and find homes for the cats and kittens.

Alicia is preceded in death by her parents, George and Nancy Papke.

Alicia leaves behind her husband of 2 ½ years, Jeff Hightower; her son, Kevin Smith; step-children, Jody Marquis (Bill), Julie Smith, Amanda Knighten (JC), Tommy Hightower and William Hightower; her grandchildren, Olivia and Devin Marquis, Gabriel Hightower and Phoebe Knighten, who will be arriving in April.

Alicia is also survived by her brother Alex Papke (Paula) and nephew Paul Papke, niece Emily Cory (Justin) and Great Nephew Zach Papke and Great Niece Abby Papke.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to ACAT (a 501 C3 for charitable contributions) for spaying and neutering would be greatly appreciated.