Jerome John Walkush (Jere) passed on May 27, 2016, from cardiac arrest while visiting family in Kansas City, Missouri. Jere was born on May 16, 1948 in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. When he was 19, he joined the U.S. Coast Guard. After boot camp at Cape May, NJ, he was assigned to Coast Guard Group Juneau in 1967; after which he enrolled in Electrician's Mate School on Governor's Island, NY. He then was stationed on Governor's Island to teach EM school. While in Juneau he met Shirley Taug. They married in July, 1969 and began their life journey together. After four years in the USCG, he attended business school in Milwaukee, WI. He worked for a short time at Cutler Hammer as an accountant before deciding to return to Alaska. He worked for the State of Alaska as an accountant in several different departments before retiring. His life in Juneau included, building the family home/house; coaching youth baseball, raising his family. He truly enjoyed the life he lived and never hesitated to volunteer for a worthy cause: the MDA telethons, helping to build the play area at Twin Lakes, various fundraisers and school events. His enjoyments included watching his two young children grow to adulthood and marry and begin families of their own. He was always very proud of his children - and when he became a Grandpa, he especially enjoyed that role.He is survived by his wife and soulmate, Shirley; his children David and his wife Leilani of Everett, WA; his daughter Kelley and her husband Scott Littlefield of Kansas City, MO. His Grandchildren, Malina, Keanu, Alana of Everett; Sophie and Samantha of Kansas City. Jere was a man of faith and was proud of his Catholic upbringing. He was a life member of Archbishop Seghers Knights of Columbus # 1760 for over 34 years.His family wishes to thank all those who offered kind words, thoughtful moments and stories shared with Jere, and condolences. Service for Jere will be held at 10:00 a.m. on June 11 at the Cathedral of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A reception will follow at the church hall.