James (Jim) Issac Melin

Jim passed away unexpectedly due to health issues on Jan. 16, 2017. Jim was born in Minot, North Daktota on March 20, 1961. He was the sixth of nine children.

Jim came to Alaska with his family in 1967 at the age of six. In 1973 the family moved out to the Butte near Palmer. Jim graduated from Palmer High School in 1981. He went to work immediately to start his apprenticeship as a plumber. He was a hard worker and had a long career that took him all over Alaska making many friends along the way. He had one daughter, Alisha, that was the light of his eyes. They loved to fish, boat, camp, and travel together. He also had one of the best friends a guy could ask for, Kevin Sweeney. They were pretty much inseparable growing up together and spent many adventures staying in and out of trouble.

Jim was a generous man, almost to a fault. What was his was yours if you needed it. He loved riding his bike around Palmer in the summertime and sometimes wintertime too. He built two homes and a couple cabins, as well as, helped many friends and family on their projects. He loved working with his hands and unfortunately could not do so in later life. He was always good-natured and never complained about things he could not do. Jim was the Uncle that the nieces and nephews were drawn to. He was the fun Uncle, always up for playing tag or buying them candy or ice cream.

Jim is survived by his daughter, Alisha Melin; sister, Sandy Melin; brother, Joe Melin; sister, Shelly Keown; sister, Cindy Kloster; brother, Chuck Melin; brother, Jon Melin; brother, Clinton Melin; and many nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Fritz and Dorismae Melin; and brother, Jerry Melin.

Services will be held at Palmer Highway Church of God, 349 E. Arctic Ave., Palmer, Alaska on Monday, Jan. 23, 2017 at 2 p.m. A celebration of life will be held at the home of Ray and Shelly Keown immediately following services.