09/05/2026
Justin Boot was one of those rare people who seemed to exist everywhere and nowhere at the same time—appearing out of the woods with a guitar on his back, a giant knife on his hip, and some unbelievable story already in progress. He was wild, complicated, sometimes an enigma, often hilarious, but always unmistakably himself. He had a gift for gathering people and turning strangers into family. Through music, festivals, bonfires, art, and especially TCBG, he created a place where people could be exactly who they were and where something beautiful could come from a little chaos. He gave so many of us friendships, opportunities, memories, and the courage to make our own lives a little wilder and more creative. Alaska—and all of us—are going to feel his absence, but his fingerprints are everywhere: in the songs still being played, the stories still being told, the friendships he created, and the people he helped grow. Justin Boot, you were family to so many of us, and we are grateful we got to be part of your strange, beautiful world. Play us a song from the sky, we’re always listening. Rest wild, Boot 💚.
In true Justin Boot fashion we can't have one party to celebrate his amazing life but several. Please share
Fairbanks Community Saturday 9/5 at the Golden Eagle starting at 5 pm
Boot's Final Toast - Come Say Goodbye before we send him off Friday 9/11 Jassens Mat-Su Funeral Home 6pm to 8 pm
Anchorage/Mat-Su Community — Saturday, 9/12, Justin Boot’s final open mic and jam will be held at Koot’s (Chilkoot Charlie’s) in Anchorage, starting at 5:00 PM. We’ll begin with a Celebration of Life at 5:00 PM, followed by an open mic and jam for musicians and bands. Kids are welcome until 8:00 PM. Come join us, share some music, and celebrate Boot’s life. Join the jam!
2027 TCBG Festival in his honor- stay tuned for official dates
Share your favorite Boot memories/ photos in the comments. We would love to see them.
