Michael William Reel

Michael William Reel, 38, died Nov. 12, 2011, in Wasilla.

Michael’s love of nature and the great outdoors led him to move to Alaska, where he found the love of his life, Jessica Regeon.

A seventh generation Texan, Alaska was the perfect fit for this man. He was born in Houston, Texas, on Dec. 12, 1972. He attended Episcopal High School and San Marcos Military Academy. He lived in Wasilla with his fiancé, Jessica Regeon, and his “children” (aka his dogs) Elsa, Buddy and Cletus, which he was deeply devoted to.

Michael was a union carpenter with Local 1281. He had a great passion for building things, but most of all a passion for his beloved “children.” He was a vivacious, caring, loving, adventurous man who will be deeply missed by friends and family. The family would like to thank his many friends in Alaska and Texas for all their love and support.

He is survived by his mother, Pam Burge and her husband Billy Burge; his father, Bill Reel; and fiancé, Jessica Regeon. Other survivors include Melanie Carlton and husband Cole; Jeni Raymond and husband Gabe and their children, Ashley and Amanda; Farley Burge; aunt, Patrice Preston and husband Wayne and their children, Brittany, Allison and Thomas; uncle, Tony Hawley and children Carynn and Garrett; grandmother, Allene Reel; uncle Bob Reel and children, Brian and Stacy; uncle, Scott Good and daughters, Samantha and Sara Beth; great-aunt, Fuffy and uncle Bill Green.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother and grandfather, Betty and Tom LaMonica; grandfather, Bill Reel Sr.; and aunts, Sara Ann Good and Priscilla Hawley.

A celebration of life gathering in honor of Michael will be held at the Birchwood Saloon, 20146 Pilots Road, Chugiak, at 3 p.m., Nov. 20.

In lieu of flowers, Michael’s wish would have been for donations to Villalobos Rescue Center (pittbulls and parolees), vrcpitbull.com.

The family was cared for by Alaskan Heritage Memorial Chapel and Crematory of Wasilla.