Robert John Check

Robert John Check, 74, died Nov. 7, 2013, at his Wasilla home. Death was attributed to health reasons, most notably congestive heart disease and diabetes.

He was born Robert Delano Check on Oct. 30, 1939, in Stevens Point, Wisc., the first child of Sylvester and Stacia (Guth) Check.

Bob was raised and schooled in Wisconsin, graduating from both high school and university in Stevens Point. He began hunting and fishing at a young age, and started his love for theater in high school. Having majored in English, French and speech, he followed in his mother’s footsteps by becoming a teacher. His first teaching job was in the tiny town of Gillett, Wisc. Later he worked a few months as a baker at Point Bakery.

In September 1969, he headed for Alaska in his ’64 Cutlass, where his first job was with the Alaska Railroad. Three months later he was accepted for a teaching job at another then tiny town — Wasilla. Two of his notable students were Sarah Palin (former governor) and Chad Carpenter (Tundra Comics cartoonist). Summers were spent in his huge garden and mowing the “maze,” making award-winning wines and beer, fishing, and hosting family and friends to show off his beloved Alaska. He retired in 1995 after 25 years at Wasilla High and traveled Outside during winters. He was a staunch member of the NRA and committed to the North American Hunting Club, the U.S. Olympic shooting team and the Palmer Elks Lodge, where he was Past Exalted Ruler. He loved the Green Bay Packers, hunting and fishing, and collected beer cans, coins, and stamps.

Bob was proceeded in death by parents, Sylvester and Stacia.

He left no spouse or children. Surviving are his four siblings, George (and Mary) Check of Plover, Wisc.; Carol (and Jim) Kojis of Hudson, Wisc.; Patricia Check of Wasilla; and Dan (and Jamie) Check of Calabash, N.C.; nephew, Kurtis (and Rochelle) Check; two great-nephews; one great-niece; and several “god-children”.

A memorial is at 4 p.m., Jan. 11, 2014, at the Palmer Elks Lodge.

Valley Funeral Home, Wasilla Chapel cared for arrangements.