MEET THE STAFF

Pastor Gary Bearce
Missions and Administrative Pastor
Gary  retired from full time missions work with the North American Missions Board and joined the CrossCountry staff in 2017.  He has served in ministry in the local church and as Church Health Director for a state church convention before coming to Alaska. Gary and his wife ​Shirley have lived in Alaska since 2006.  They have two grown children and 5 grandchildren.

Shirley Bearce
Administrative Assistant
Shirley joined the CrossCountry staff in 2017.  She and her husband Gary moved to Alaska in 2006.  She is a former School teacher and Church Preschool and Children's Director.  She and Gary enjoy traveling, especially on mission trips, as well as walking and exploring in Alaska.

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Kathy Towns
Children's Director/Treasurer
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Kathy was born in So. CA, a 5th generation Californian.  She has lived in CA, LA, & AK.  Her family moved to AK when she was in 3rd grade because of her dad’s work.  She lived in Anchorage until 1981, then moved to Wasilla.  She has worked for Anchorage Sand & Gravel for 36 years.  She will be celebrating her 35th wedding anniversary to Calvin in July.  She is the oldest of 8 & has 3 sisters, 1 brother, 2 step-sisters, & a step-brother.  She has 3 children & 5 grandchildren.  She has been attending CrossCountry since its beginning & has served as Children’s Director & Treasurer for that long.  She is a certified instructor for American Red Cross for CPR/AED/First Aid, & volunteers her time with many local committees & organizations.  She loves NASCAR & NHRA.  A few little known facts about her - She met her husband “cruisin’” the strip in her Chevy Chevelle Laguna SS & has won 3 awards for her company; 1 for heroism (2013) & 2 for Community Spirit (2015).

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