JAY DEE SURRATT

Jay Dee Surratt, 60, died in Big Lake on June 2, 2003.

Mr. Surratt was born on May 17, 1943, in Blythe, Calif., spent some time in Texas, then came to Alaska at age 17 and began work in construction. He worked as a mechanic and operator, as an independent truck driver, and helped with the clean-up of Amchitka Island and the Exxon Valdez oil spill.

His family said, "Jay was passionate about the natural wonders of Alaska -- the mountains, the waters, the fish and the critters. He talked to all of the wild animals and they always answered. His most loved 'critters' were his horse Amber and dog Partner who allowed him to live out his fantasy as an 'Alaskan cowboy,' hunting, fishing, gathering food or just spending time on the trail.

"His friends and family get a twinkle in their eye when they tell how Jay may have lived too short a life, but he found a way to pack a hundred lifetimes of fun into his one. We'll remember his music he'd play on his horn, his many sayings like 'keep your head up,' and 'see you in a little bit' will carry on."

Survivors include his sons Todd Surratt and Garrett Surratt; daughter Alyse Galvin; grandchildren Kaitlyn, Stewart, Katelin, Dustin, Jesse, Sean, Camden, Cooper and Bridget; brothers David and Bill Pinkerton; sister Pat Gotori; mother Lillian Mahan; step-father Dale Mahan; companion Nancy Rosin; and many other relatives and friends.

A memorial service will be held Tuesday, June 10, at the Big Lake Community Chapel on South Big Lake Road, with a viewing at noon, and service at 1 p.m. Following the service, there will be a potluck gathering at Fish Creek Park, next to the chapel.

Arrangements were made by Valley Funeral Home & Crematory in Wasilla.