John Russell Fuller, 56, passed away Monday, March 26, 2012, at Denali Center in Fairbanks.
John was born July 19, 1955, at the old St. Joseph Hospital on Illinois Street in Fairbanks, to Frances (Fran) Wivoda Fuller and the late Russell L. Fuller.
He attended school at Barnette, University Park, Main, Ryan and Lathrop. After graduating, he attended additional education in food preparation at Hutchison Career Center.
He also learned many skills from family members. At his father's side he acquired skills such as meat cutting, target practice, hunting, fishing and working on everything mechanical - especially car engines. From his brother, Sheldon, he gained his love of music, and from his mother, Fran, he learned about music, bowling and cooking.
John loved all sports and was a private tour guide to everyone. He knew the history of many of the tourist attractions throughout Alaska. His love of music led him to play in bands where he was known as one of the greatest drummers around. He also played trombone, harmonica and guitar. Earliest band members were Steve Sather, Ron Martin, Dave Dale, Kent Banks, Mark Torgeson, Gene Newman, Joe Feller and many other locals.
In his early years he sold papers and lemonade, and helped at car washes to save for a drum set. He did cleanup at stores where his dad worked. As he grew older he learned the meat cutting trade. He worked for United Geophysical Survey plant at Barrow Naval station, the BLM dining hall at Fort Wainwright, 1979-1986 at Lower Commons, University of Alaska Fairbanks for ARA as a cook, where he won many awards. He was always willing to help on any fundraising event be it cooking or with music.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Kari (Fuller) Kraft, in 1991; and his father, Russ Fuller, in 1993.
John is survived locally by his mother, Fran Fuller; niece, Jamie Lee Kraft; his brother Sheldon (Diane) Fuller of Cape Coral, Fla.; cousin, Bill (Norma); nephew Russell; and niece Whitney Wivoda. He also is survived by many aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
We are grateful to the many professional doctors and nurses at Providence Hospital, Intensive Care Unit, specifically Luke, Charlie, Ted, Norm and Brian, as well as Providence Extended Care Center in Anchorage. We'd like to thank the local physicians who cared for John throughout his life, as well as the staff at Denali Center for the loving care shown to him.
At his request, there will be a private family gathering.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Antique Car Club of Fairbanks or Friends of Creamer's Field.
John's wishes are that everyone be kind to one another.
Condolences can be sent to Fran Fuller, P.O. Box 60024, Fairbanks, AK 99706.
Arrangements were entrusted to Chapel of Chimes Funeral Home.
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Published in Daily News-Miner from May 27 to May 31, 2012
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