James Joseph Pochop, 20, of Anchorage, Alaska, died unexpectedly August 10, 2016. A prayer service was held Monday, August 15, 2016 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Parish in Anchorage, Alaska. Visitation and Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, August 20, 2016, at St. Joseph's Catholic Parish in Wall Lake, Iowa, at 10:30 a.m.  Visitation will begin an hour prior to the service beginning at 9:30 a.m. with a rosary at 10:00 a.m.

James was born in Mason City, Iowa, on December 28, 1995. He grew up in Iowa, Missouri and Washington before moving to Alaska with his parents and big sister. He became a big brother while living in Alaska. He spent the last eleven years of his life in Alaska and graduated from Lumen Christi High School in Anchorage in 2014.

James enjoyed hiking, long-boarding, dog mushing, gaming, downhill skiing, and playing basketball. He spent many hours practicing his dribble and shooting hoops in the driveway. His wit and humor charmed many. He was a gentle soul who loved being with his family and friends.

He is survived and will be greatly missed by parents Michael and Julie Pochop; and two brothers: Jacob and Mahlon, Lee's Summit, Missouri; his sister Christine and brother-in-law Zachary Flessner, and niece, Rylee, Holloman AFB, New Mexico; grandmother Mona Lou Pugh, Lake View, Iowa; grandparents Rollin and Carol Pochop, Four Seasons, Missouri; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

He was proceeded in death by his grandfather Kenneth Pugh.

Memorials may be directed to the family to be determined at a later date.