Michael John Hoyt

ANCHORAGE, Alaska - Michael John Hoyt, 45, died July 26, 2004, at Providence Medical Center in Anchorage after experiencing a cerebral aneurysm.

A memorial service was held July 31 at Kehl's Forest Lawn, Anchorage.

Mike was born May 10, 1959, in Grand Rapids, Mich., to Kenneth N. and Eloise M. (Lockin) Hoyt.

Mike moved to Alaska in 1980.

He obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Resource Management in 1985 and a Master's degree in Forest Sciences in 1992 from the University of Alaska-Fairbanks.

He lived and worked in Homer, Fairbanks and Anchorage.

He was employed by Tanana Chiefs Conference, Inc. from 1989 to 1994, Hedstrom Lumber Co. of Minnesota from 1994 to 1996, and Chugach Alaska Corporation from 1997 as a Lands and Resource specialist.

He also worked as a commercial fisher out of Homer and Bristol Bay as well as holding a variety of other jobs in high school and college.

Mike loved the outdoors and adventure and many tales are told of his wildlife encounters. He hunted, fished, and rafted with zest.

His family and friends stated, "Mike's last day was spent rafting and fishing for red salmon on the Kenai with some of his closest friends. He enriched the lives of many with his warmth, booming laugh and sense of humor.

"His passion for the outdoors and learning serves as the foundation for an endowment scholarship fund that has been established in his name.

"He was a caring and generous person who lived life to its fullest.

"He touched many and will be greatly missed - they don't come any better."

Local survivors include his brother Steve Hoyt and family of Charlo.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Memorials may be sent to the Michael Hoyt Alaska Forestry Scholarship Fund, c/o Mt. McKinley Bank, 1380 University Ave., Fairbanks, AK 99709.