Obituary from the Fairbanks, Alaska "Daily News-Miner" newspaper, dated Sunday, November 29, 2009, page B-2:

Lifelong Healy resident Howard Karl Mercer, 45, died in his sleep at home in mid-November. Howard was born Jan. 13, 1964, in Fairbanks to Claire and Berle Mercer.

The memorial service will be held Saturday, Dec. 5 at 1 p.m. at Holy Mary of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Healy. The service will be followed by a sharing of memories and refreshments.

Howard, the youngest of six children, was raised on a ranch in the Healy area. As he grew up, his family owned a bevy of livestock and pets, including bison, cattle, horses, mules, sheep, chickens, geese, dogs, and cats.

Howard was among the first class of first-graders at the new school soon to be known as Tri-Valley. Like most kids, Howard loved Friday art lessons and sessions at the ceramic shop. Howard was a 1982 graduate of Tri-Valley High School.

As a young man, Howard occasionally drove to Fairbanks for an evening of skating at the old roller rink.

Howard owned a variety of critters. He frequently could be seen on his daily walks with his horse, Rubio, and dog, Jill, close by. In past years, Howard was a fan of weight pulling and entered contests in Fairbanks with his two favorite dogs, Rufus and Bear.

Howard lived a simple life. He enjoyed nature's beauty. He kept notes of wildlife sightings and when new flowers bloomed. Howard valued his friendships. He loved his siblings despite the inevitable differences. Howard was dedicated to helping his parents in their final years. He was especially devoted to his brother and best friend Rex.

Uncle Howard was amused by his young nephews and nieces. As they got older, he'd take them on walks at the ranch, sharing his childhood with them. Howard was always ready to help the little ones off and on inner tubes for a float down the stream.

Howard was known by many to have a quick sense of humor. He didn't always smile, but the sparkle in his eye or arch of his eyebrow usually gave him away. Howard liked the humor in "Tundra" and "The Far Side."

Although Howard was insulin-dependent for most of his life, he didn't let diabetes get him down. He accepted his lot in life with courage and good humor, never complaining about his discomfort or difficulties.

Howard was preceded in death by his parents, both in 2008.

He is survived by his four brothers Baxter (Renee), Dwight, Kirk (Regina) and Rex, all of Healy; and his sister, Wilma Marcorelle (Deric) of Soldotna. Other surviving family members include five nieces, four nephews, two great-nephews, and extended family from Alaska to Connecticut.

Howard's passing came too soon. He was our little brother, our uncle, our friend and our neighbor. He will be remembered with love.