Harold Sisbach Jr.

Harold James "Jim" Sisbach Jr., 67, of Wasilla, died peacefully Dec. 14, 2008, in his office.
A memorial service will be from 1-4 p.m. Tuesday at the Wasilla Elks Lodge No. 1842 off Bogard Road on Barry's Resort Road. There will be a potluck meal afterward, so bring a dish to share.
He was born July 26, 1941, in Viroqua, Wis., to Harold J. Sr. and Ruby (Everson) Sisbach.
Jim graduated from high school in Viroqua, but this was not the end of his education. His parents insisted that he learn to hunt and fish. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, so in 1969 he moved to Chugiak, where he remained until 1985. At the urging of Patti, he agreed to move to Anchorage, where he stayed until they decided to relocate to Wasilla in 2000.
During these years, Jim worked on the North Slope, in Cook Inlet and Prudhoe Bay for 38 years, first for Parker Drilling Co. for 30 years and then in March of 2007 he began working for Doyon Drilling Co., where he worked for eight years until his retirement.
Hunting and fishing were everything to Jim. Only his family took priority over that. His favorite fishing spot was Carpenter Lake and Deep Creek for kings and halibut. When he wanted to get away, he went to "The Cabin."
To Jeff, Jim was his friend as well as being his Dad. Jeff said that he "never saw anyone who didn't like my dad." Jim was a straight shooter with everyone and sealed a deal with a handshake. When decisions were to be made and others were trying to help make the decision, Jim would end the discussion with "Let me decide." Patti, Jim's loving partner of 24 years, said that she, "had never known a man who was more of a gentle giant or had a heart so big. I found my gold in Alaska with Jim."
Jim is survived by his son, Jeff Sisbach and Maggie of Chugiak; his loving partner of 24 years, Patti Gersich of Wasilla; mother, Ruby Sisbach; sister and brother-in-law, Eileen and Ray Getter; nieces and nephews, Susan and John Johnson, Sonjia Getter and son Cody, Stuart and Kay Getter, Stanley Getter and Heidi, Stacy Getter and Steven Getter and Katie, all of Viroqua, Wis.; close family friend, Dave Hankins of Washington and former wife, Ardith Sisbach of Montana.
Jim was preceded in death by his father, Harold J. Sisbach Sr.
Family added, "Jim will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his family."
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Rifle Association.
Arrangements are with Valley Funeral Home.