William Michael Land

William Michael Land, 65, of Wasilla, passed away at his home of natural causes on Sept. 7, 2014.

Bill was born on Sept. 7, 1949, in Enterprise, Oregon, to Reginald and Elaine (Crader) Land. Bill spent some time logging while in Oregon. Bill joined the U.S. Army and proudly served his country. Bill completed two tours in Vietnam, one tour in Afghanistan, and he also served in Panama. Bill was a skilled heavy equipment mechanic while in the Army and played a vital role in keeping many varieties of machinery running properly for the troops. Bill retired from the Army National Guard at Fort Richardson after more than 30 years of service as a heavy equipment mechanic.

Bill loved his children and grandchildren. He was generous and fun and passed on an adventurous spirit and independent nature to his kids. His spontaneous family outings will long be remembered. He was a hero to his daughters and a man who will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his daughters, Dina Atkin of Wasilla, Amanda Poindexter of Los Angeles, California; sons, Michael Land of Fairbanks and Randal Land of Wasilla; grandsons, Richard Atkin, Tucker Atkin, Gunner Atkin, Liam Atkin of Wasilla and Xavier Owens, James Poindexter III of Los Angeles, California; and granddaughters, Aubrey Atkin of Wasilla and Jazmyne Ogletree of Los Angeles, California.

Preceding him in death were his father, Reginald Land; mother, Elaine Crader; stepmother, Joann Land; and a brother, Tim Land.

Arrangements were cared for by Valley Funeral Home — Wasilla Chapel. An obituary and guest book are online at AlaskanFuneral.com.