James Daniel Ducey

Lifelong Alaskan and Wasilla resident James Daniel Ducey, 62, died with his loving wife at his side Jan. 28, 2013, at Mat-Su Regional Medical Center in Palmer.

A celebration of life in honor of James “Dan” is at 7 p.m., Feb. 4 at Wasilla Bible Church, 1651 Nicola Ave. Pastor Jim Eller will officiate.

James was born April 23, 1950, in San Francisco, Calif., the son of James and Dorothy Ducey.

James moved to and lived in Seward from 1973 to 1977. While in Seward, he worked for Seward Fisheries, Louisiana Pacific and Alaska Railroad. He later moved to Wasilla, and in 2004 received a bachelor’s degree in Human Services. James also worked for ARCO AK (BP) and retired from BP due to disability. James was a member of Wasilla Bible Church. He served his community through his work at Access Alaska, was on the board of MASCPT and also served on the state Independent Living Council. James enjoyed political debates and history.

The family wrote: “Through his life, regardless of his physical limitations, Dan possessed the ability to draw others into conversation. He was able to put you at ease with his genuine interest in your story, allowing you to share the most personal details of your life. He was a great communicator. His advice and insight was always spot on and dispersed with his usual sense of humor. Dan’s contribution to the community of Wasilla is profound. The young, old, rich and poor found inspiration and consolation in his generosity, selflessness and dedication to others.”

Surviving are his wife, Linda Ducey of Wasilla; son and daughter-in-law, Kellen and Kasper Ducey of Killeen, Texas; daughter, Kena Ducey of Killeen, Texas; sister, Barbara Ducey of Chico, Calif.; half-sister, Christine Calespini of Dixon, Calif.; and granddaughter, Kyanna and grandson, Kaiden, both of Killeen, Texas.

Preceding him in death were his parents, sister and brother.

Memorial donations in his honor may be made to: Wasilla Bible Church, 1651 W. Nicola Ave., Wasilla, AK 99654, or Access Alaska, 1075 Check St., Wasilla, AK 99654.

Arrangements were by Valley Funeral Home and Crematory. An obituary and guestbook are online at AlaskanFuneral.com.