Gregory Erle Strong, Ph.D.

Aug 4, 1947 -

Jun 14, 2021

Gregory Erle Strong passed away in Palmer, Alaska, on Monday, June 14, 2021, at the age of 73, from heart disease, at his home with family in attendance. The past nine years Greg enjoyed his winters in the sunny south at their home in Scottsdale, Ariz. He had many fond memories of family visits and lots of fun in the sun! His life was well-Iived. Greg was born in Milwaukee, Wis., on Aug. 4, 1947; first son to Erle and June Strong. Greg attended Vanderbilt University for a master's degree and continued to University of Wisconsin Milwaukee, where he earned his Doctor of Philosophy in urban education on May 18, 1980.

Greg and family moved to Fairbanks, Alaska, in 1982, and a few years later to Eagle River in 1986. Greg worked as part of the executive management team for Eklutna lnc. for several years, then started his own real estate investment firm. Greg always had a passion for real estate, which started with restoring an 1849 historic stone house in Germantown, Wis., to its original condition.

In the Anchorage and Mat-Su Valley his endeavors included developing several subdivisions, with amenities such as parks, walking paths to adjacent schools, trail system for horses and a riding arena. He also renovated office buildings, single family and multi-family homes. Greg loved Alaska with its many lakes, mountains and great outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, boating and raising dogs. He was an excellent dog trainer and for many years he raised, showed and field trialed Labrador retrievers. All were titled and "Charles" a yellow Labrador, was both a Show Champion and Master Hunter, which competed at the AKC Master National Field Trail. Another great love was for Newfoundland dogs, of which he had many. He was a member of The Newfoundland Club of America. His pride and joy is "Buck," a bronze colored Newfoundland, who won many titles, including Best in Show!

His greatest love was for his family. When asked what accomplishment he was most proud of, his response was "Being a good dad."

Greg was preceded in death by his parents, Erle and June Strong. He is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Janice Strong; brother, Robert Strong of Hubertus, Wis.; and four children from his previous marriage to Mary McConnell, Ryan (Kelly) Strong, Monica Strong and Laura (Tim) Atkinson of Alaska, and Owen (Amber) Strong of Koloa, Hawaii; and nine grandchildren, who he loved spending time with. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Janssen Mat-Su Funeral Home, 6901 E. BIue Lupine Drive, Palmer, AK 99645, on Tuesday, June 22, 2021, from 2-4 p.m.