JOHN PEARL SMITH

Longtime Alaska resident John (Junkman John) Pearl Smith, 62, died Oct. 8, 2005, peacefully in his sleep, at his home in Wasilla.

A celebration of his life will be held Friday, Oct. 14, at 6 p.m., at the Butte Community Center. Call 775-1372 for details.

Mr. Smith was born Sept. 15, 1943, in Wisconsin, to Pearl and Lillian Smith. In the 1960s he moved to Alaska, where he made his home and worked hard as a salvage operator until his death.

His family wrote, &#8221He was filled with wit and wisdom and lived his life on his own terms. His legacy isn't in riches or accomplishments, but in the people he cared for and their depth of feeling and devotion to him. Everyone he touched is a part of this legacy. He also had an appreciation of nature. He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.“

Contributions may be sent to: P.O. Box 1324, Palmer, AK 99645.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Louise Campbell; mother, Lillian H. Albrecht, and his son, Justin C. Smith. He is survived by his daughters, Judy and Jeannette, who reside in the Lower 48. His children in Alaska include his sons, John P. Smith II and Joseph A. Smith of Palmer; daughter, Jennifer R. Smith of Wasilla; sisters, Snooky Smith of Nevada and Rose Anne Dyiakanoff of Ketchikan; brother, Robert Smith of Oregon and aunts and cousins and their respective families.

Arrangements are with Kehl's Palmer Mortuary.