Our beautiful wife and mother Leanne Derks passed peacefully surrounded by her loving family on July 6, 2023, in Anchorage, Alaska. Leanne was born Margret Leanne Rea on July 23, 1940, in Rock Creek Township, Hancock County, Ill., to Dee and Helen (Brandon) Rea. She graduated from Nauvoo High School in 1958, and on April 28, 1961, married Jim Derks, the love of her life. In 1966, with three children at home and a new one on the way, Jim asked Leanne what she thought about moving to Alaska, she replied, “That sounds like fun.” So, in July 1967, now with four young children in tow, Jim and Leanne packed up their Chevy van and drove 3,600 miles away from the life they knew to start their new life in Alaska, telling family and friends they would probably be gone a year. Seventeen and 19 years later, and still in Alaska, Leanne and Jim welcomed two new boys into the family and started parenting anew. Leanne was an endlessly patient and loving mother, grandmother and greatgrandmother, dedicated wife and friend, and someone who always put the needs of others above her own. She will be remembered fondly by former students and co-workers at Chinook and Willow Crest Elementaries where she worked for many years as school secretary. In her younger days, Leanne was often involved in competitive sports including softball and volleyball, and many will remember her fiercely competitive spirit. She had many hobbies through the years including being a skilled painter and seamstress. Leanne also enjoyed many outdoor adventures across Alaska and spending time at the family’s cabin in Cooper Landing. She was an amazing cook who loved spending time in her kitchen preparing delicious treats for family and friends and was always the last to sit and eat herself. She was also an active and devoted member of the First Christian Church of Anchorage. Leanne wished nothing more than to be near her beloved family, so in their retirement years, she and Jim spent much of their time traveling to see family. Along the way they enjoyed collecting antiques, of which Leanne was particularly fond of vintage linens, cookbooks and glassware. Leanne is survived by her loving husband, Jim, of 62 years; six children, Lisa, Teresa (Vic), Jim Jr. (Jean), Jenny (Greg), Todd (Jennifer) and Travis (Jen); grandchildren, Zane, Cooper, Erika, Elias, Charity, Jason, Chelsea, Abby, Paxson, Danika, Royce, Sage, Ira and Jack; great-grandchildren, Kayden, Ryder, Michael and Jamie; sister, Carolyn McMillen of Fort Madison, Iowa; as well as an abundance of close family friends. She is preceded in death by her parents; eight brothers, Willy, Jack, Mel, John, Newt, Glen, Donnie and Jim; two sisters,Betty and Norma; grandson, Chad; and son-in-law, Greg Curtis. A celebration of life is scheduled for 3 p.m., on Friday, July 21, 2023, at First Christian Church in Anchorage. All are welcometo attend and celebrate Leanne’s life. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to First Christian Church, Anchorage, 3031 Latouche Street, Anchorage, AK 99508; or Hospice of Anchorage. The family would like to thank everyone for their support, including the medical professionals who provided compassionate care