Fairbanks, Alaska - Jack Townshend counted himself 'rich from an abundance of quality of life'

Fairbanks, Alaska - Jack Townshend, one of the great larger-than-life characters that Fairbanks has ever known, has died at 85. A veteran runner, he completed the Midnight Sun Run a year ago and this summer he was honored as a special guest, belting out the National Anthem before the run began.

"You Are So Beautiful" was one of his favorite songs, which he would never hesitate to sing when he saw the need to do so.

"Life has been full of very fine experiences for me. So much so that I can be considered one of the more fortunate people in the world, rich from an abundance of quality of life," Jack once wrote.

Jack had a philosophy of life that he liked to share with others. He said it in different ways at different times, but this is how he summarized his attitude on his business card:

"Treasure every moment knowing that yesterday is history, tomorrow is mystery, today, the present moment, is a precious gift. Seize it, cherish it, use it wisely, enjoy it and share it with others in the journey through life."