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John Urban Obituary
Pop was born Aug. 22, 1927 in Anchorage, Alaska to Edith (Edlund) and John Urban. He graduated from Anchorage High School in June 1945 and joined the Merchant Marines. He attended Boise Junior College, graduating in 1949. He met Cissie while a college student in Boise and they were married June 4, 1949 and began their 64 year adventure together.
The couple spent their early married life in Anchorage, where Pop worked for the National Bank of Alaska, eventually as Vice-President. Their three children were born in Anchorage and the family were avid skiers, hikers, boaters and campers. Pop built several houses in Anchorage and cabins in Homer, Seldovia and Alyeska. He was an active member and P.E.R. of the Anchorage Elks and enjoyed flying his private planes, duck hunting and fishing. One of the family's favorite adventures was when Pop flew them from Anchorage to Chicago in a Piper Apache, making many stops along the way, including the 1962 World's Fair in Seattle. The family built one of the first cabins at Alyeska and called it the "Hodge-Podge Lodge".
The family moved to Seattle in 1967 where Pop owned Rhodes Bread Co. and later Campbell Industrial Supply, in addition to Rental Marts Inc and Airport Machinery Co. in Anchorage. In 1995, John and Cissie retired to Hailey, ID where they continued to ski, build houses and go on adventures.
In 2001, John and Cissie moved to Boise and added a winter home in Surprise, Arizona in 2006. Pop's retirement years revolved around children and grandchildren. Pop told us that one of the greatest pleasures of his life was living long enough to meet his two great-granddaughters, Kaitlyn and Lily.
Poppo's wish was to be cremated and have his ashes scattered on Bald Mtn, Sun Valley, Idaho, and Mt. Alyeska, Alaska. The family and close friends will gather next summer on top of Baldy to celebrate Pop's life.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for John Urban
3 Entries
Swank Family
November 28, 2013
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
Kathleen (Belgard) Jones
November 24, 2013
Cissie and family, I am Kathleen (Belgard) Jones, Bob and Kate's daughter. My siblings and I want you to know how very sad we were to hear of John's passing and how much the both of you meant to Mom and Dad, and to us. We heard stories our entire lives about you guys...the antics that Dad and John would pull & Mom's incredible friendship with you Cissie. We hope that love and time help you heal, please know that we're always here and thinking of you with fondness and love. xoxo
Jay Burnett
November 24, 2013
Dear Cissie: So sorry to read of John's passing. Many good memories come with associating John and you to those memories. Thanks to for building the "Hodge-Podge-Lodge" which our family enjoyed for many years. Remind John to look up and say "Hello" to Jeanne who's ashes are also spread at Mt. Alyeska. God will heal your grief.
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