Stanley Gene Wick

Stanley Gene Wick

Palmer resident Stanley Wick, age 62, departed this earth unexpectedly to join his Heavenly Father on Friday, September 20. He was at home with his wife, Laura, at his side when he suffered a heart attack.

Stanley was born September 29, 1956 in Grand Junction, Colorado to Melvin and Eveline Wick. He lived and grew up in Anchorage and attended Service High School through his junior year. It was during his senior year at Palmer High School that Stan met his high school sweetheart, Laura Gladson, prior to graduation in 1974. They were married a year later on June 28, 1975. After high school, Stan earned an Airframe Power Plant License and Aircraft Inspection License. He worked with his dad at Wilbur’s Flight Operations until they opened Wick Air, Inc. in 1976. Stan continued to build and maintain aircraft for many Alaskan customers for the rest of his life. He was highly regarded for his craftsmanship and quality workmanship, especially the detail and care he put into custom paint jobs. Years into his career, he became a private pilot, sharing the skies and mountains with Laura. He spent many free moments flying and fishing. Basketball was a significant part of Stan’s recreational life. He played high school basketball and adult recreational leagues. Later, his love of basketball extended to coaching his daughters and many local children. When his daughter, Karissa, became a coach at Wasilla High, Stan became an avid Warriors fan. Although Wasilla girls basketball and UAA womens basketball were his undeniable favorites, he contributed to every school and many sports programs in the Mat-Su Valley. Memories of Stan must begin by recalling his unforgettable smile, laughter, and storytelling. While enjoying the Alaska life to its fullest, his family will cherish memories of fishing, flying, hiking, camping, and playing basketball together. Stanley will be remembered for his steadfast commitment, love, and support. He was ever-devoted to the happiness and well-being of his family. Most importantly, at the core of Stan’s being, was Stan’s unwavering trust in Jesus for his Salvation. Stan naturally shared his gratitude for the ways in which God met his personal needs.

Stanley is survived by his wife of 44 years, Laura Wick; mother Eveline Wick of Palmer, Alaska; daughters Kristila (Joe) Gardner and Karissa (Levi) Rollman of Wasilla, Alaska; brothers Lonnie (Barbara) Wick of Irvine, California and Scott (Marianne) Wick of Palmer, Alaska; grandchildren Cole and Jewel Gardner and Russell Rollman; sister-in-law Kelly (Robert) Best and sister-in-law Karen Gladson; and ten nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 19 at 2:00 p.m. at Wasilla Bible Church, 1651 W. Nicola Ave, Wasilla, Alaska.

His ashes will be scattered at Knik Glacier, the Kustatan River, and interred at Palmer Pioneer Cemetery.

The family asks that donations be made to the Stanley Wick Memorial Basketball Fund to benefit Alaskan high school basketball players. Contact family members for more details.