John Kaalakea Jr.

Beloved husband and father John Kaalakea Jr., 43, passed away Sept. 26, 2013, at Mat-Su Regional Medical Center in Palmer.

Celebration of life is at noon, Oct. 12 at Kings Chapel, 1701 N. Lucille St., in Wasilla. A potluck follows the service. Pastor Daniel Bracken will officiate.

He was born Dec. 20, 1969, in Wailuku Maui, Hawaii and moved to Alaska in 1990.

John was employed by Gibson Roofing and was a very hard worker. He was an amazing husband, father and fisherman. John had a heart of gold. He was a strong, good man that loved life, family and his friends.

Preceding him in death were his parents; two older brothers; a sister; and a nephew.

Surviving are his wife of 21 years, Shalinda; children, Keoni, Kalei, Jaime and LeAnn; sisters, Gwendolyn (Auggie) Kaauwai and Jennie (Anthony) Biga; and brothers, Manuel (Elona) Kawaha, Edyington Naki, Raymond (Mariyln) Ortiz and Mark (Tati) Naki.

John’s generosity and kind heart were an inspiration to his family. He lived his life with integrity and bravery. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Please direct donations to the First National Bank in account No. 31008105 under Shalinda Kaalakea.

Arrangements cared for by Valley Funeral Home and Crematory.