Michael “Mike” Wayne Strunk, age 76, of Wasilla, Alaska, died at his home on Thursday, March 12, 2026 with his wife of fifty-four years, Mary, by his side. He was born on January 10, 1950, in Somerset, Kentucky, to the late Marion Ray Strunk and Jackie (Lane) Strunk.

Mike grew up in Ashland City, TN, and later moved to Idaho before settling in Alaska. When he visited his family in Tennessee, he was excited for warmer weather and a sack of Krystal’s sliders. He and Mary raised two sons, Tim and Jeremy, in a house full of music. He loved his guitar, and he shared that with his family. Professionally, Mike was a man of many trades and worked as a firefighter, an EMT, a truck driver, an industrial maintenance technician, and a few other jobs. He was also a proud Army veteran and a dedicated member of AMVETS. He could argue with a brick wall, but he could make one laugh, too. He was fascinated by archaeology and history, and in that vein, he loved a good story. His fiery spirit, fueled by black coffee and lemon slices, will be missed.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents, Marion and Jackie Strunk; sisters Gwendolyn Strunk and Marilyn Baker; and brother Douglas Strunk. He is survived by his wife Mary Strunk; sons Timothy Strunk and Jeremy Strunk; granddaughters Etta Strunk and Nola Strunk; brother Steven Strunk (Lisa); his curly-haired, rescue dog Toby; and a large, loving extended family.

An informal gathering to celebrate his life will be held Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 2pm at Riverbluff Park in Ashland City, Tennessee.