Longtime Alaskan and Homer resident Gordon M. Layel, 67, died June 2, 2015, at home from heart failure. Memorial services will be held 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 15, 2015, at the V.F.W. Post #10221 in Anchor Point. Gordon was born Jan. 19, 1948, in Charlotte, N.C. He attended college and also served in the U.S. Army from 1965-68. He moved to Alaska in 1980 and resided in Eagle River, Anchorage, Anchor Point and Homer.

Gordon had worked in an auto body shop, in fishing, as a house painter and was a self-employed ivory and wood carver. He had also worked for Arc of Anchorage, working with mentally challenged children and adults. He became disabled in 2000 and retired from working.

His daughter said, “Being able to have my dad in my life was the best thing ever.”

His life partner said, “He was my brother, soul mate, the light and love of my life. He had a heart of gold and was hilarious.”

Gordon was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister.

He is survived by his daughter, Amanda Sue Pepion; grandchildren, Blu Skye Karby and Lee Loo Stephenson, all of Paragould, Ark.; and life partner of 18 years, B. Elizabeth “Lizzie” Greischel of Anchor Point.

Condolences and cards may be sent to Beverly Greischel, P.O. Box 1389, Anchor Point, AK 99556.

Arrangements were by Peninsula Memorial Chapel.