Michael Kemmis

Michael G. Kemmis passed Sept. 28, 2007, at his home near Palmer. He was 27. His family and friends will celebrate his life at the time of the next full moon, Oct. 26.

Kemmis was born June 14, 1980, in Fairfield, Calif. He completed high school through home courses, but would tell others to not drop out; rather, to stay in school and graduate.

Kemmis had many different jobs, mostly in food service management. He benefited from his affiliation with the Salvation Army and St. Joseph’s Catholic Churches in Idaho and Oregon. He came to Alaska in May 2007 and worked this past summer at Clover Pass Resort in Ketchikan. He caught a 185-pound halibut his first time out.

Just previous to his passing, Kemmis had decided to make Alaska his home. Always having been caring and attentive to friends and family, he was happily immersing himself into renewing his relationships with his existing family, as well as newly extended family members Karen Choate and Greg, Jen and Tanner Lenthall. The many close and special times enjoyed with him since his recent return from his fishing job will be greatly treasured by his mother.

Kemmis is survived by his mother, V.L. “Jo,” and stepfather Robert Armor, of Alaska; sisters Jamiann Blackshire of California and Amanda Leigh Kemmis of Washington; two special nephews Daniel James Hartman of California and Adam Aron Hartman of Idaho; grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Kopecky of Illinois; biological father James (Terri) Kemmis; stepbrother Joel of Coeur D’Alene, Idaho; many aunts, uncles and cousins of the Thurlow, Rienschmidt and Youngblood families across Idaho, Washington, Montana and California.

A memorial fund to cover the costs of Kemmis’ burial has been established at Mat-Su Valley Federal Credit Union, 1020 S. Bailey St., Palmer, AK 99645.

Arrangements are with Alaskan Heritage Memorial Chapel and Crematory.