MICHAEL SCHROEDER

Michael Schroeder, 29, passed on to a better life on Dec. 9, 2003, due to the flu. A celebration of life potluck dinner will be held at the Silver Fox, Mile 50 Parks Hwy., Jan. 17, 2004, beginning at 6 p.m.

Mr. Schroeder was born in Toledo, Ore., on March 9, 1974, and moved to Alaska with his family June 9, 1985. He lived and attended school in Anchorage, moving to Meadow Lakes in 1991.

Michael had most recently been employed at Schuck's Automotive. He enjoyed his work and the interaction with customers.

The loves of Michael's life were fishing, pool, bonfires, fireworks, video games, game shows, movies and Taz. He caught his first king salmon at age 12, which he had to let loose, and his last at 29, which he shared with his mom.

His family said: "Michael will be remembered for many things, but the two that seems to be mentioned most was his loyalty to those that he loved and his willingness to help his family and friends, many times putting them before himself and his needs."

He is survived by his mother, Donnita R. Burks and his step-father, Sam L. Burks, both of Meadow Lakes; a step-brother, Sonny Burks; step-sisters Lita, Chris, Cynthia and Cheron; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins in California, Idaho, Missouri, Oregon, and Washington.