JAMES BARNES

James Paul Barnes, 31, died Aug. 2, 2008 at his Wasilla home after a long battle with ALS.

A funeral service was held Aug. 10 at Alaskan Heritage Memorial Chapel, 1015 S. Check Street, Wasilla.

Barnes was born June 21, 1977 in Palmer. He was raised mostly in Willow, and worked in Fairbanks and Wasilla. He was a longtime employee of Fairbanks Natural Gas. He was also a carpenter’s apprentice and an all-around fix-it guy.

Barnes’ hobbies and special interests included hunting, fishing, camping — everything outdoors — fast cars, mechanics, artistry, cooking, family, barbecues with friends and talking on the phone.

His family wrote, “He was loving, caring and willing to help anyone in need. He was a loving father and friend to many. He lived life to the fullest and always had a story or two.”

Barnes is survived by his mother, Sylvia Jacobs of Willow; brothers, Douglas Barnes of Palmer, Shane Barnes of Wasilla, Peter Jacobs of Houston, Clint Jacobs of Minnesota and Wyatt Jacobs of Wasilla; sisters, Edith Stone and Isla Jacobs of Willow; daughter, Myiah Barnes of Wasilla; son, Cyress Barnes of Wasilla; numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Barnes was preceded in death by his father, James Jacobs, and grandfather, Leonard Joslin.

Editor’s note: This obituary previously ran in the Aug. 8, 2008, edition of the Mat-Su Valley Frontiersman. It is being reprinted to include information left out of the original submission by the funeral home.