Well-known wrestling coach and homebuilder Lancer Smith, 53, died from brain cancer May 8, 2002, at his home in Palmer, Ak.     Smith was one of the first USA Wrestling Chairmen from the state of Alaska, serving from 1987-1994.    "He was very instrumental in getting domestic exchanges with the lower 48 state teams to go up to Alaska for training camps," stated USA Wrestling Director of State Services Mark Scott.    "He was one of the first to try and bring the entire state of Alaska under USA Wrestling. He initiated the first Junior National team from Alaska. He will be sorely missed by all of us at USA Wrestling."    Smith, born Nov. 9, 1948 in Vallejo, Calif., came to Alaska in 1971.    He competed at Diablo Valley College in California in the mid-1960's.    Smith coached at Palmer High School for 18 years. He also coached at Colony High School for three years. He was known as the father of Freestyle wrestling in Alaska.    Smith crafted many buildings, both log and frame, throughout the state. An accomplished woodworker, he also created unique and original furniture.    His family recalled: "A true mountain man,' in every sense of the word, he loved his horses and going hunting and fishing -- and living the Alaska dream."    In a statement released by Smith's family, his joy of life was recalled.    "Lancer was an amazing man. His motto was: 'If it's not fun, then don't do it,' which he said to encourage everyone around him. He was an inspiration to all and has touched the hearts of more people than he may ever know."    Smith is survived by his wife, Joanne Smith; daughters and son-in-law, Kelli Smith of Palmer, and Kaycee and Jonny Hammond of Anchorage; mother, Nathalie Smith; brothers, Corey, Kevin and Kyle Smith, all of Concord, Calif.; sister, Tasia Smith of Nevada City, Calif.; and Jerry and Sasha O'Malley of Palmer.    A celebration of his life will be 1 to 4 p.m. June 2 at Palmer High School. His ashes will be scattered in the mountains behind his home.