STEVEN SCHNEKENBURGER

Steven Richard Schnekenburger, 35, of Wasilla died at Mile 292 of the Parks Highway on the morning of Jan. 14, 2007.

He was born Oct. 29, 1972, in Hoopa, Calif., and moved to Alaska in 1992. He adopted Alaska as his own and loved living here. In 1994, Schnekenburger relocated his growing family to Wasilla. After years as a talented mechanic, an injury in 2006 ended that career. Even though he had little experience as a semi-truck driver, he lived out a childhood dream as a successful owner/operator on the Haul Road. His hard-working, dedicated attitude was evident to all of his fellow drivers, and he was well respected in that community.

One friend remembers him as an excellent driver who never put himself or another trucker in a bad spot; he was always ready to help anyone in trouble. His lights were a welcome sight to many on the road. His family wrote that Schneckenburger was the proud father of three children, and was well loved in his family. In his free time, he enjoyed snowmachining, camping, hunting, shooting, riding his ATVs or motorcycles and modifying almost every vehicle he owned. He loved to share those passions with his kids. He was generous, dynamic, and he left his mark on every thing he did.

Schnekenburger is survived by his wife, Rachel, and children Mac, Austin and Stephanie, of Wasilla. He is also survived by his parents, Rick and Rebecca Schnekenburger of Delta Junction, brothers Ken Schnekenburger and Jon Schnekenburger of Fairbanks, sister Dianna Schnekenburger of Fairbanks, and Christy Hollembaek of Delta Junction and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of his life will be held at 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 27, at Suisitna Valley American Legion Post 35, Mile 46 Parks Highway in Wasilla.

An account has been set up at Wells Fargo Bank in memorial for Schnekenburger to benefit his three children.

An online guestbook can be signed at www.alaskacremation.com

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Cremation Society of Alaska.