Michael Joseph Maillet

Mike Maillet, beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, passed away after a courageous two-year battle with Glioblastoma brain cancer. He leaves behind a lifetime of memories, stories, friendships, and adventures that will live on in all who knew and loved him.

Born January 3, 1953, in Boston, Massachusetts, Mike spent his childhood in Colorado, then moved to Anchorage with his family after the 1964 earthquake. He graduated from Dimond High School in 1971 and was hired by the Alaska Railroad before joining the Navy. After his four-year hitch, the railroad held his job and seniority, allowing him to come to Alaska where he lived for more than 60 years. It was in Alaska that he built his life, raised his family, developed lifelong friendships, and eventually retired from a long career with the Alaska Railroad.

Mike was a man who loved life and loved being around people. He never met a stranger and had a gift for making friends wherever he went. He was social, outgoing, and always looking for a good time. If there was an opportunity for an adventure, Mike was ready to go.

He loved taking long motorcycle rides, camping, fishing the Kasilof River, traveling, and experiencing new things. He enjoyed the journey as much as the destination, and many of his favorite memories were made simply by getting out, exploring, and spending time with the people he loved.

Mike was also incredibly hardworking, a quality he proudly passed down to his three sons. His work ethic, determination, and ability to keep moving forward became part of the foundation he gave his family.

His greatest legacy, however, is his family.

He is preceded in death by his sister, Elaine, and parents, Eddie and Ruth.

Mike is survived by his loving wife, Kathy, and their three sons: Ryan and his wife, Tiera and their children, Isabella and Cooper; Sean and his wife, Courtney and their sons, Evan, Adam and Owen; and Lane and his wife, Shannon and their daughter, Melody.

He was a husband, father, grandfather ad friend who brought energy, laughter, and adventure wherever he went. HIs stories, his love of the outdoors, and his unmistakable zest for life will continue through the family he built and the many people who lives he touched.

Mike spent many years calling Alaska home, but his greatest home was always with his family.

He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

A memorial is planned for November 14.   Contact family via message for details.