Longtime Alaskan Joan M. Schilling, 74, died at home in Anchorage, Alaska, on Dec. 9, 2015. Joanie was born on Dec. 15, 1940, in Wadena, Minn., to Neil and Mary (Tomashek) Huddleston. In 1949, the family moved to Alaska, briefly residing in Fairbanks, before settling in Copper Center. In 1960, while working at the Copper Center Lodge, she met Robert Schilling, and they married later that year. After living in both Alaska and the Lower 48, they moved permanently to Copper Center, which Joanie always considered to be her home. Taking care of her family and mother, as well as having many interests and hobbies, kept her busy and gave her a great sense of fulfillment. She was an exceptional cook, a voracious reader and enjoyed gardening, crafting, surfing the Web and being with family and friends. Joanie loved animals and every winter made sure her bird feeders were well stocked. Her children write: "Mom was a kind and giving person, with a great sense of humor and was generous to everyone. She loved being a mother; making our birthdays and holidays special, and was always there for us with sympathy, wise advice and the best and warmest hugs. We had great conversations with Mom, and her love, comfort and support was unparalleled. We loved her dearly and miss our Momma very much." Joan was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Robert; and brothers, Neil "Pete" and William Huddleston. She is survived by her children: daughters, Tracee and Kristee of Anchorage; sons, Kyle (Misty) and William (Christeen) of Anchorage; son, Bryan (Laurie) and grandchildren, Corbin and Grace of Lodi, Wis.; and sister-in-law, Cec Huddleston of Anchorage. A private Memorial was held at Liberty Falls, Alaska, on June 16, 2016. Final arrangements were made by the Cremation Society of Alaska.