James Kroll

James LuVern Kroll, 52, of Anchorage passed away Feb. 14, 2011, at Providence Alaska Medical Center after a short but courageous battle with end-stage liver failure.

Funeral services will be Feb. 26, 2011, in Boulder, Mont. In lieu of flowers, donations may be given to the Jim Kroll Memorial Fund, c/o First Boulder Valley Bank, P.O. Box 207, Boulder, MT 59632.

Jim was born March 3, 1958, at St. John's Hospital in Helena, Mont., to Vern and Winona (Boe) Kroll. Jim was raised in Boulder and graduated from Jefferson High School in 1976.

After graduation, Jim traveled and held various jobs before going to Anchorage in 1990 and working for the U.S. Postal Service. It was in Anchorage that Jim met his future bride, Karen Kempton, and they were married on July 29, 2000, in Helena.

Jim was truly a free spirit and lived the way he wanted. He had a great connection with kids and animals, due to his huge heart and compassionate understanding. Jim was an avid fisherman and had many great times while "wetting a line."

His quirky sense of humor and unique vocabulary were sure to put a smile on the face of everyone he met and knew. Jim enjoyed long rides in the mountains, nicknames, his cats and birds, camping and the Seattle Seahawks, but most of all, family. One of his biggest joys was when his daughter Felicia was born; he loved being a dad.

Even though Jim had lived in Anchorage for the past 20 years, his final request was to be laid to rest in Montana, which he'd always considered to be his home.

"Jim will be forever missed (GONE FISHING)," his family wrote.

Jim is survived by his wife, Karen and daughter, Felicia Kroll of Anchorage; parents, Vern and Winona Kroll of Boulder; and six siblings. Jim is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and an abundance of friends who also brought enjoyment to his life.

Arrangements are with Anderson Stevenson Wilke Funeral Home in Helena. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.aswfuneralhome.com.