James A. Loyer

James A. Loyer, 87, of Palmer, Alaska, died peacefully on Monday, May 8, 2017, at the Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson Hospital in Anchorage, Alaska. James, born in Mikado, Mich., on Aug. 16, 1929, to Joseph Alexander and Naomi Loyer, was the eldest of 11 children - the leader of the pack. In May 1935, when James was 5 years old, the young Loyer family began the long journey to Palmer, as part of the New Deal's experimental farming project - the Matanuska Valley Colony. James grew up on the Loyer family dairy farm on Outer Springer Loop, learning the value of hard work and cultivating a widely respected work ethic that he'd pass on to his own children.
James attended Palmer High School before joining the U.S. Navy in 1948: service that took him to Fukuoka, Japan, where he and Setsuko Loyer had their first child, Naomi, in 1953, before moving back to Palmer shortly thereafter. James was a carpenter by trade and worked throughout Alaska for many years on projects large and small. During the pipeline era, he enjoyed traveling throughout the Lower 48 to visit family and friends. His other interests included photography, tractors and animals.
James was a man of few words, though it was apparent to those who knew him that he lived his life by a particular and honorable standard, and that he enjoyed the company of those who did the same. He was a good and genuine man, and his eyes twinkled when he told a joke or teased. His character combined warmth, gentleness, strength and subtle humor; when he was pleased, or if you could make him laugh, it was a true satisfaction.
While at home in Palmer, you could often find James shopping for tools and parts or collecting bargains at an auction. He relished being down at the shop with his brothers, eating cinnamon rolls and doughgots prepared by his sisters, and he never turned down a cup of black coffee or hot cocoa with family. He'll be remembered for his meticulous woodworking ability, no one could cut lines as precise as him, and his willingness to lend a helping hand.
James is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Naomi Loyer; Setsuko Loyer; brother, Gary Loyer; sister, Norma Benson; daughter, Naomi Loyer; and son, James Alexander Loyer Jr.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 49 years, Cathy Loyer; and her children, Donna, Diane, Debbie, Dennis, Douglas, Don and Danny; daughter and son-in-law, Carol and Bob Moore; son and daughter-in-law, Jim and Catherine Loyer; son, Michael Loyer; granddaughter and grandson-in-law, Mary and Jeff Urban; granddaughter and grandson-in-law, Megan Moore and Bobby Ellis; great-granddaughter, Darby Su Urban; brothers, Vic (Ruth) Loyer, Ken Loyer, Fred Loyer, Rick (Linda) Loyer and Butch (Emily) Loyer; sisters, Dorothy Hubbard (Ron Meehan), Rita Loyer and Janice (Lee) Svoboda; as well as many nephews, nieces and cousins throughout Alaska and the Lower 48. He also leaves behind treasured friends, many established in childhood.
A potluck-style celebration of life is planned for Saturday, June 17, 2017, at 6 p.m., at American Legion Post 15 in Palmer. In recognition of his legacy, memorial donations may be made to the Colony House Museum in Palmer. The family also wishes to acknowledge the exceptional care provided to James during his residency at the Alaska Veterans & Pioneers Home in Palmer, as well as during his stay at the JBER Hospital.