OBITUARY: Mike Wallace, one of 3 brothers who settled in early Chugiak, dies at 82

Mike Wallace, the last of three well-known brothers who helped shape early Chugiak, died on Oct. 24, 2017 at his home. He was 82.

The Wallace brothers — Mike, Art and Til — arrived in 1950s Chugiak-Eagle River and quickly established themselves among the town’s foremost characters. Art and Til started a brick business that helped build several of the area’s early buildings. According to his obituary, Mike Wallace and his parents came to Alaska to join Art and Til after Mike got out of the Army.

After arriving in Alaska, Mike and Til — along with Til’s wife, Ella Hitz Wallace — homesteaded 320 acres of land near Mount Baldy atop what is now Skyline Drive. The family was influential in the founding of Chugiak, and each was profiled in the 2014 book Legendary Locals of Chugiak-Eagle River by Chris Lundgren.

Art Wallace — a 30-year volunteer fire chief and curio shop owner — died in 2010, followed by Til in 2015 and Ella Wallace in February.

According to his obituary, Michael Menzies Wallace was born Sept. 2, 1935 in Rochester, New York. A lifelong bachelor, he was known by his family as “Mick” or “Uncle Mike.”

“Michael was gentle and thoughtful, a peaceful and highly intelligent humble man,” his family wrote.

He enjoyed astronomy, math, reading, puzzles, breaking codes, treasure hunting and gold mining.

“He helped build the community of Chugiak/Eagle River and will be deeply missed by his family and friends,” read his obituary.

The family will hold a private remembrance.