Milan Martinek

Milan “Mick” Martinek, 67, passed away Aug. 2 at his home in Palmer after a long battle with cancer. His loving wife Rita and family members were by his side.

Mick brought his family from New York to Alaska in 1968 to follow his dream for the great outdoors. He lived everyday like it was his last. He lived life like he wanted to.

Mick would listen to everyone else’s opinion before making his own opinion. He was an avid hunter, fisherman and trapper. Mick had a sixth sense for gold, when mining, he never left a stone unturned.

Mick is survived by his wife, Rita Martinek; his mother, Fannie Martinek of Glendale, Ariz.; son, Rick Sanderson and his wife Patty Hahn Sanderson of Washington; son, Scott Sanderson and his wife Vicky of Palmer; brother, Martin Martinek of New York; sister, Jeanne Hale of Ariz.; brother, Joe Martinek of New York; sister, Jackie Martinek of Ariz.; 4 grandchildren; and 4 great-grandchildren. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends.

He was predeceased by his father, Martin Martinek, Sr.

Mick’s life will be celebrated during a potluck Friday at his home, from 1 t0 4 p.m.

Arrangements are under the care of Valley Funeral Home.