GAROLD WAYNE MORRIS

Big Lake resident Garold Wayne Morris, affectionately known as Joe, departed this life April 11, 2005.

His children held services privately at Valley Funeral Home in Wasilla. His remains and the remains of his loved and faithful companion, Bosco, will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at a later date. A celebration of his life will be held at Power Sports Inc. in Big Lake, on April 30. For more information, people may contact Jeff Cooper at 892-6692.

Mr. Morris was born to Maxine and Paul Morris in Altus, Okla., on March 16, 1943. His childhood was spent in Jackson County, Okla. He graduated from high school in 1961 and then joined the Army in February 1964.

His military service brought him to Fort Wainwright, where he was honorably discharged with several awards in February 1968.

He was married to Margaret Harrop of Fairbanks on Nov. 18, 1965. They had three children: Lisa, Renae and John.

In 1978, Mr. Morris moved to Big Lake, where he opened Power Sports Inc. with partner Jeanne Campbell. Later, Sprint Marine was born with partner MaryAnn Lee.

His loved ones wrote, "Joe was a fun-loving guy with an addictive personality, hugs as big as a bear and a heart bigger than Alaska. He loved the outdoors, fishing and boating. The fish of Alaska can now rest easy, and to the manufacturers of Olympia beer, Bar-S wieners, and Winston smokes, please forward any royalties to the memorial potluck, we are sorry for the decline in future sales. Joe will be remembered fondly and missed by many."

Mr. Morris is survived by his three children, Lisa Boswell of Fairbanks, Renae Furness of Stafford, Va., and John Morris of Fairbanks as well as their spouses and children; sisters, Charlotte Knox and Rita Roden; brother, Marvin Morris; his siblings' families in Oklahoma and Alabama, and numerous friends, acquaintances and business associates.

For those unable to attend the celebration, condolences and/or wishes may be sent to the following e-mail: lisa.boswell@acsalaska.net, which will be shared at the memorial. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local military support fund for the troops in Iraq.