Shawn Arthur Anderson

Palmer resident Shawn Arthur Anderson passed away Feb. 17, 2010, at the age of 29 from hypothermia while hiking at Mentasta.

A celebration of Shawn’s life and potluck was held Feb. 25 at the Palmer Elk’s Lodge.

Shawn was born Jan. 5, 1981, in Palmer and remained a resident there until his death. He graduated from the Palmer High School. While in school he worked at Lee’s Transmission and various shops in the area. Shawn was a very talented mechanic and he loved the challenge of solving mechanical problems.

He was always there for the family when vehicles broke down.

Shawn loved the outdoors, snowmaching, 4-wheeling, fishing, camping, hiking and skiing. Shawn started riding his 4-wheeler at the age of 3 and did competition racing at age 6. He took first place in a competition in Anchorage, winning many other trophies.

Shawn is survived by his father and mother, George and Denise Anderson of Palmer; and his brother, Shane Anderson of Palmer. He also leaves behind numerous aunts, uncles and cousins and a step-grandmother.

“Shawn was much loved and we will miss him greatly. Rest in the arms of Jesus, sweet boy,” the family wrote.

In lieu of flowers, the family has set up an account in Shawn’s memory at the Matanuska Valley Federal Credit Union in Palmer, account number 129596AN.

Arrangements were with Anchorage Funeral Home and Crematory.