David Joseph Tanner

Longtime Alaska resident David Joseph (Dajo) Tanner, 78, died of natural causes Dec. 15, 2010, surrounded by loved ones at the Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage.

David was born July 18, 1932, in Alhambra, Calif., to Allen Oscar and Bessie Bell Tanner. He was the sixth of eight children. He spent his early years living in and around southern California and eastern Oklahoma.

David (Dajo) was very proud of his Native American heritage and as a youth attended numerous powwows and other tribal events with his family. He remained a lifelong member of the Cherokee Nation of Tahlequah, Okla.

At a young age, David was introduced to the guitar and country music by his older brother, Bill, and quickly discovered he had a natural ability. Music became his life’s work and passion, eventually rewarding with an induction into the Western Swing Society Hall of Fame in 1999.

In spring 1949, he met the first love of his life, Jonnie Frances Philpott, in Carlsbad, N.M. They were married July 2, 1949, in Farmington, N.M. They raised nine children and were married for 36 years until Jonnie’s death in 1987.

As a young man, David held many positions in numerous jobs, mostly in the construction field. He eventually decided to dedicate his life to his music. David was nomadic by nature and traveled the southwest United States settling where the work was for a time, then moving on to different surroundings. It was this nomadic spirit that brought him to Alaska.

In summer 1967, he and his family arrived in Eagle River. He lived in and around Anchorage and the Mat-Su Borough until he died. His other interests included fishing, boating, camping, barbecues, creating Native American art and spending time with family and friends. The coffee pot was always on and all were welcome. Dave had a large, loving heart and always enjoyed the company of others.

After the death of his wife, Jonnie, he was once again blessed when he met Buradine Thiesing, who remained by his side for 20 years until his death.

Dave will be remembered with respect and admiration. He will be missed by many for his immense talent, quick wit and easy-going nature. He is survived by his life companion, Buradine Thiesing; sons, David Jr., John, Ethan, Cody and Matt; daughters, Pahleah, Shannah and Shelley; 22 grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; brother, Douglas; and sisters, Waunehmah Shanklin and Wanda Haughn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Bessie; brothers, Allan and William; sisters, Georgia Alberta and Pauline; wife, Jonnie; and daughter, Debra Lynne Marshall.

Funeral services are at 11 a.m., Dec. 22 at The Crossing, 22208 North Birchwood Loop. A celebration of life follows at 3 p.m. at American Legion Post 33 in Peters Creek.