Linda Kay Manns

Following a long, courageous battle with cancer, Linda Kay Manns went home to be with the Lord at the age of 43 on Tuesday, Aug.19, 2008.

Linda was a pioneer's daughter raised at the family's homestead, Crevice Creek Ranch, in the heart of the Brooks Range. She was a very accomplished woman who was as much at home in the Alaska outdoors as she was living the "city life."

Linda could shoot, hunt, fish and ride a horse or snowmachine with the best of them.

But her interests were far more varied. As a businesswoman and hostess, she had few equals.

And toward the end of her life, one of her great pleasures was the success she enjoyed when she opened her bed and breakfast.

Linda's greatest pride was reserved for her family, especially her two boys.

She embraced being a wife and mother, providing a warm, hospitable home for her family and friends.

She loved to cook and entertain -- providing wonderful meals was her specialty.

Before her medical retirement, Linda served in the Fairbanks Governor's Office for Gov. Sarah Palin.

Previously, she was deputy director of Boards and Commissions for Gov. Murkowski, as well as a special assistant.

She managed the University of Alaska Southeast bookstore in Juneau for many years. She was a Rotarian and served as member and president of various Republican women's groups.

Linda took great delight in "opening" her oncologist's eyes to the possibility that conservative politics have merit.

She also was the first Miss Alaska Teen USA in 1983.

From the moment Linda first opened her eyes, her family says she charmed everyone she met. She enjoyed a legion of friends from all walks of life who remain loyal and loving.

Linda will be remembered fondly for her wonderful sense of humor and quick laughter, her high drive and energy and the sheer delight she took in life.

Linda is survived by her husband, Jeff Manns; her two sons, Blake and Garret; her stepsons, Dustin, Jordan and Dakota; her mother, Lillian Fickus; her sister, Deborah Fickus Luper; her two brothers, Matt and Timothy Fickus, and their children, Michael Luper, Denali and Matthew Fickus; and Kylie, Aana and Dawson Fickus; a half-sister, Sandy Thomas, and a half-brother, Bill Oley, of Pennsylvania.

She was preceded in death by her beloved father, William "Bill" Fickus.

A funeral will be held at 5 p.m., Monday, Aug. 25, at Door of Hope Church, 270 Fairhill Road.

Linda's husband and family ask that donations be made to local breast cancer groups in lieu of flowers.

Arrangements were by Northern Lights Mortuary and Crematory.