Dennis Glen Smith

Longtime Wasilla resident Dennis Glen Smith, 56, died at his home Dec. 28, 2011, after a brief battle with cancer.

He was born May 21, 1955, in Springfield, Ore., to Buddy Lee and Patricia (Starr) Smith. Dennis was a 1972 graduate of Thurston Senior High School in Springfield.

He worked as a painter for many years and owned D. Smith and Sons Painting Co. at the time of his death. An avid fisherman and hunter, Dennis greatly appreciated Alaska's abundant natural beauty. He enjoyed watching movies and reading books, especially the works of Stephen King. He was a big music fan who really enjoyed the rock band Seether. Dennis was a good man who worked hard and loved his family deeply. Dennis requested no services and his wishes were for cremation.

Dennis is survived by his father of Cedar Flats, Ore.; daughters, Danielle Smith of Tualatin, Ore., Ashley Smith of Tigard, Ore., and Aunna Neuser of Wasilla; sons, Tucker C. Smith, Douglas Neuser and Dalice Neuser, all of Wasilla; sister, Barbara Lee Smith of Springfield, Ore.; brother, Loyd G. Smith of Wasilla; two grandchildren; and his fiancée, Kathryn "Katie" Hanson, whom he was to marry Jan. 1, 2012 at their home.

Alaskan Heritage Memorial Chapel and Crematory Wasilla cared for the family.