Edward Gurtler Sr.

Edward Gurtler Sr.

Was born on the North Fork of the Innoko River in 1933. He passed away quietly in his home in Wasilla April 3, 2019.

He spent his early years hunting; fishing and trapping helping his parents support the family. After graduating high school in Holy Cross Ed joined the Army in the early 50s where he attained the rank of sergeant. After military service he became a heavy equipment mechanic and operator and helped to build much of the states infrastructure including the distant early warning system (DEW line) and the trans Alaska pipeline. Ed owned and operated a hunting lodge for many years in the area where he was born and raised. His client list included such notables as Charlton Heston. An avid bush pilot Ed flew thousands of miles across the state in his Cessna 170. An accomplished musician and singer, pilot, mechanic, big game guide, husband and father and all around good guy with an ever present smile Ed will be missed by all who knew him. Ed’s loving wife Bev passed away in 2011.

He is survived by his two sons Ed Jr and Kres; his grand daughter Livia; and his siblings Florence, Frank, Bernice, Suesan and Carol.

In lieu of flowers the family asked that donations be made to “My House” for homeless youth.

A celebration of life will be held July 13th in Wasilla at a place and time yet to be determined.