Earl Franklin Romans

Earl Franklin Romans, 75, died during the early morning on April 10, 2013, in the tender care of the Denali Center staff, surrounded by his loving wife of 54 years, Judy, and his four children.

Earl was born in Denver, Colo., on Aug. 11, 1937, and exemplified the rugged individual and self-made man that built our great state of Alaska.

Earl fought the good fight. Earl finished his race. Earl kept the faith. Earl was a good and faithful servant.

Earl will be remembered as a committed Christian, loving husband, dedicated father, devoted grandfather, an elected politician, successful entrepreneur, resource development agent, international businessman, community service member, competitive racer, civic leader, gracious volunteer, charitable soul and servant leader.

Earl was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Helen Rinn; admired father, Walter Franklin Romans; brothers Jim, Louie and Bill Welker; and his sisters, Edna McCormick and Jeannie Dean.

Earl is survived by his wife, Judy; his oldest son, Wade, wife Oksana and his two daughters Shayla and Cloey; middle son, Ward, wife Denise Farmer and daughters Rachel and Brittany; youngest son, Patrick, wife Tammy Barnett and two daughters, Ashley and Kaelyn; and Earl’s only daughter and light of his life, Marcy Sutton, husband David and daughter, Jenna Joy; Earl’s younger brother, Albert Romans; and his many other relatives.

In lieu of flowers, Judy has requested donations be made to the Denali Center, Pioneers of Alaska Igloo No. 4 Foundation or the American Cancer Society on Earl’s behalf.

Earl’s memorial service is at 1 p.m., April 15 in the sanctuary of the First United Methodist Church on Second Avenue in Fairbanks. All friends, family and acquaintances are invited to attend.