James Herrick

May 12, 1934 -

Jan 8, 2023

North Kenai, Alaska, resident Mr. James Donald Herrick, 88, died on Sunday, Jan. 8, 2023, at Central Peninsula Hospital in Soldotna, Alaska.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., on Jan. 21, 2023, at the American Legion Post #20 in Kenai, with a potluck to follow. Post Commander Dave Segura will officiate.

Jim was born on May 12, 1934, in Belfair, Wash. He came to Alaska in 1951, at the age of 17, when he drove his mother and his younger brother, Ron, up the Alcan to meet his father and younger brother, Dick, in Anchorage. He attended Anchorage High School, was a member of the class of 1953 and was married to his high school sweetheart Patty in 1956. He lived in Anchorage from 1951 until him and his wife, Patty, moved to Nikiski, Alaska, in 1996, where he lived until his passing.

He joined the Alaska Air National Guard in 1955. He was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1956 and served two years at Fort Richardson. After his stint in the Army, he returned to the Alaska Air National Guard where he worked until his retirement in 1991.

He was hot rod builder in his early years, and a pilot, aircraft owner and aircraft mechanic for over 30 years. He belonged to many organizations involved with flying and veterans.

He received numerous medals, awards and accolades for his military service, most notably the Alaska Legion of Merit, he was the first NCO to receive the award, the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, and the Air Force Commendation Medal and for his service to many organizations.

The family wrote: "He was a man who needed no introduction as he was well known by so many people from so many aspects of his life whether from his time with the Alaska Air National Guard, his racing days, his flying days, his time as an aircraft mechanic and inspector, or the many organizations he belonged to. He will be greatly missed."

He is survived by his wife, Patty Lue Herrick of Nikiski; sons, Don and Dale; daughter, Debbie; three grandsons; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Gladys Herrick; brothers, Ron and Dick Herrick; and grandson, Donny Herrick.

Memorial donations may be made in memory of Jim to The American Legion Post #20 in Kenai.