Michael James Edward Anthony

Born and raised Alaska resident Michael James Edward Anthony, 22, died Feb. 5, 2006, at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle.

A memorial in celebration of his life will be held Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Fairview Loop Baptist Church in Wasilla.

Mr. Anthony was born Aug. 15, 1983, in Anchorage. He was an outdoor enthusiast his entire life, as he enjoyed helping his father out with the Iditarod each year, fishing the many creeks and rivers of Alaska, four-wheeling, snowmachining and hiking.

Mr. Anthony played baseball as a child and football in high school, graduating from West High in 2002. He then pursued employment with Northern Air Cargo, where he gained countless friends and experiences.

He was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia in June 2003, and fought a long and tedious battle against cancer for three years.

He received a stem cell transplant from his sibling donor in March in an effort to eradicate the cancer.

His body unfortunately rejected the stem cells, resulting in his final battle against GVHD and its numerous complications.

Throughout every challenge, he remained positive and hopeful that one day he would return to good health. His family was able to spend his last days with him, surrounding him with love and praise.

His family wrote that &#8220An angel truly has walked amongst us,” and said they will never forget his brilliant blue eyes, his warm smile, his laugh, his big bear hugs, his generosity, his kindness and the strength that resonated through him in every aspect of his life.

Mr. Anthony is survived by his parents, Gregory &#8220Tony” and Bonnie Anthony of Anchorage; sister, Donna Anthony of Palmer; sister, Tina Anthony-Blomker of Fairbanks; sister, Heather Anthony of Seattle; grandparents, Harold and Doris Hutchins of Anchorage; niece, Lisa Blomker, and nephew, Jacob Blomker, of Palmer; uncles, Harold, Blake and Barry Hutchins and numerous uncles, aunts and cousins in Alaska, Washington, Ohio and the East Coast.

Memorial contributions may be made at any Alaska USA bank (account # 406484). Arrangements were made by Valley Funeral Home and Crematory.