JAMES FLEMING

Longtime Alaska resident James M. Fleming, 68, died suddenly Aug. 27, 2005, at his home in Wasilla.

A viewing was held at Evergreen Memorial Chapel, 737 E St., Anchorage, and a memorial was held at St. Patrick's Catholic Church.

Mr. Fleming was born Oct. 15, 1936, in Duluth, Minn., to James and Harriet Fleming.

His family wrote, "He loved to recall his many fond memories as a youngster growing up in Anchorage.

Mr. Fleming came to Alaska in 1941 with his family via railroad and steamship.

He attended school in the original old schoolhouse and while living in Curry, he commuted to school in Talkeetna by train with his sister. These years cultivated his love of Alaska and the railroad."

Mr. Fleming returned to Minnesota for a few years and graduated in Aitkin, Minn.

After graduation, Mr. Fleming was drawn back to Alaska. At age 19, he embarked on a 37-year career with the Alaska Railroad, starting in the freight shed and ending up as heavy-equipment supervisor.

His next great adventure was a retired life he shared with his wife of 44 years.

Mr. Fleming loved to fish, snowmachine, and garden and he was known for his talent in carpentry.

His family wrote, "His greatest passions in life were his family, friends, the Alaska outdoors and taking road trips in his Harley with his wife, Pat, and many special friends from the Anchorage and Wasilla Harley groups.

"He adored his grandchildren and was affectionately known as 'BA.' A dynamic member of several local and state organizations, he was most active in the Pioneers of Alaska.

"He served in many facets. - he was king regent of Fur Rondy and had proudly served as the grand president."

Mr. Fleming was preceded in death by his brother, Phillip.

Mr. Fleming is survived by his wife, Pat Fleming; son, Bill Thomas, and daughters and sons-in-law, Brenda and Jeff Fowler and Rhonda and John Hozey.

Mr. Fleming is also survived by his grandchildren, Amanda Fowler, Jack Hozey, Jimmy Hozey and Olivia Fowler; sister, Nancy Rainer, and many aunts and uncles and cousins.