Saturday, April 30, 2011

Alaska Obituaries 04/30/2011


 

Agnes Alice Asaro

She was born on Jan. 4, 1928 to Nick and Leslie Milton in Yakutat, Alaska. She was a Tlingit Raven. She graduated from Sheldon Jackson in Sitka in 1948. She married Michael Quarrella in 1955 in Juneau, and moved to Slidell, La. in 1958. In 1960 they moved to Seattle, where she stayed and enjoyed her family. She worked at the Swedish hospital in Seattle for many years before retiring and living independently in Everett, Wash., Agnes enjoyed talking and visiting with all her children and grandchildren, she loved to travel by bus to visit and shop for all of her family. She was a very strong and loving mother and grandmother. She would always do as much as possible for her family; she had a very giving, humble and loving heart as well as a great sense of humor! She treasured all of her grandchildren and great grandchildren and took a great pride and care for all of her family., "She will be deeply missed by all of her family, although we do know she is in a better place and out of pain and with her loving Savior," her family wrote. "Agnes had a very strong Faith in God and would talk to all of her family about it, she read the Bible multiple times and whenever she conversed to any of us or wrote a letter, she would always recite the Bible and attach scripture to it. Agnes took a piece of all of her families' heart when she left and will always be remembered for her dedication to her family and her Great Faith in God.", Agnes is survived by her children: son Jerry Milton and partner Augusta Milton of Seattle; daughters Linda Jennings of Birmingham, Ala., Pamela McDonald and husband Bob of Phoenix, Julia King and husband Jerry of Northbend, Wash., and Leola Masters and husband Eric of Juneau, Odessa Quarrella of Oregon, and son, Anthony Asaro, of Seattle. She had 18 grandchildren, 11 great-grand children and four great, great grandchildren, and numerous nephews and nieces. Agnes was preceded in death by her siblings, her brothers Jones, Paul and Bob Milton, sisters Ginger Newman, Katherine, and Julia Milton and son-in-law Joseph Jennings., There will be a celebration of life for Agnes in Buckeye, Ariz., on April 24, 2011. In lieu of flowers you make donations to: The


 


 

Albert William Dick

February 3, 1940 ~ April 12, 2011, Hoonah resident Albert William Dick, 71, died April 12, 2011, at the Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage. He was T'akdeintaan (Raven/Seagull Clan), from Tax' Hít (Mt. Fairweather House), and Wooshkeetaan Yatx'i (son of the Shark Clan)., Albert was born Feb. 3, 1940, in Juneau, Alaska. He spent his entire childhood in Hoonah before graduating from Mt. Edgecumbe High School in 1960. He attended college at Haskell Institute in Kansas, graduating in 1963 before enlisting in the U.S., He and his wife moved back to Hoonah in 1975 to raise their son and, later, daughter in a community structure inherent with the values and beliefs of their Tlingit culture. It was through his children that Albert realized the importance of serving and leading his community and its residents. Albert went from being a small business owner and fisherman to serving in a number of public service capacities, including becoming a longtime mayor of Hoonah, chairman of Huna Totem Corporation, and a leader in many non-profit organizations dedicated to representing and improving the lives of his Alaska Native people, and residents of Hoonah., His family will remember Albert as a devoted and loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle and brother who put family first above all else; as a dedicated public servant that worked not just for the community, but for his kids and future generations; and as a father who had a clear vision in his mind for his family and community. He touched many lives through his work and was respected by many people for his humor, gentle and kind nature, and willingness to give unconditionally., He was preceded in death by his parents, William Dick, Sr. and Edna (Sheakley) Dick; and brothers, Raymond Dick and William Dick, Jr., Albert is survived by his wife of 42 years, Jacqueline Dick of Hoonah; daughter Christina Cornelia Dick; and son Russell Albert Dick and daughter-in-law Brenda. He is also survived by his grandsons Tevin Michael Dick and Cavan William Dick; his brother Harold Dick, Sr.; and sisters Winona Dick and Cornelia Koenig and brother-in-law Joel; as well as many loving nephews and nieces. In addition to his direct family members, Albert was very close to his first cousins William "Ozzie" Sheakley, Warren Sheakley, Jr., and Legia Pate., Services will be held in Hoonah on Wednesday and Thursday, April 20 and 21.


 


 

Alroy DeAngelis

Surviving are his wife, Patti; children, Laughton and Sarah; his mother, Margaret; two brothers: Mike and Paul; two nieces: Tara and Caitlin, and sister-in-law, Cindy. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward; and a son, Ellery., Alroy was a U.S. Navy SEAL during the Vietnam War, and his team worked on the Apollo-Soyuz space mission. He worked for the U.S. Forest Service for 24 years and was a master craftsman woodworker. Alroy was well known for his adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors. Throughout his life, he was a strong advocate for wilderness preservation and public access to trails in the Inyo and Tongass National Forests. His life passions were his family, his friends and Alaska., Celebration of life hikes are planned on Mount Whitney in California and in Ketchikan, Alaska later this year.


 


 

Ann B. Griggs

Ann had recently been residing in Bellingham Washington. She was born in Miles City, Montana on September 19, 1932. Ann worked for the Veterans Administration for over twenty-five years and was very dedicated to helping all veterans., In 1966, she and her beloved husband Merv took the family and moved "North to Alaska!" Where in Juneau, they raised their four children. Merv and Ann were avid fishermen and any chance they could get, they loved nothing better than to go out and fish on the MacDuff., Words like feisty, dedicated, and loyal come to mind when thinking of Ann. The person she loved most in this world was her husband, Mervin Griggs. She had the wit and ability to retell some of the jokes, good times and stories Merv was so famous for. This meant much of her life was spent accompanied with much laughter and good friends., Ann was preceded in death by husband Mervin Griggs and leaves behind her brother Jack Bishop and wife Eve. Four children; Leslie Baken and her husband Jeff. Patti Connelly, Bruce Griggs and his wife Mary Frances, Daryia Trego and her husband Thomas. Her Grandchildren Jessica Baken, Tristan Paulo, Tyler Reid, Jake Baken, Rikki Trego, Johanna and Gabriel Griggs, and Great-grand child, Megdalena Baken., Merv and Annie's remains together, will be scattered at various favorite fishing spots around Southeast Alaska., Donations would gladly be accepted under Ann Griggs at Whatcom Hospice in Bellingham Washington., 800 E. Chestnut Ste. 1-A, Bellingham, WA 98225.


 


 

Beatrice Mullen Fox

Living and working in San Francisco during WWII, she met her husband-to-be Robert B. Fox while he was on leave from duty as Lt. Commander on the U.S.S. Spence. They married in San Francisco in 1946 and settled in Atherton, where they raised a son and three daughters., After the children were grown, she served on the Board of Directors of her family's bank until it was sold in 1989. She also was a member of the Board of Trustees of Sacred Heart Preparatory in Atherton and was involved with its evolution from an all girls school to its present status as one of the best co-educational prep schools on the west coast., She later continued her life-long devotion to Sacred Heart Schools through her volunteer work at Oakwood of the Sacred Heart. She also volunteered in the Chaplain's office of the Stanford University Medical Center for a number of years., Her devotion to her Catholic religion was reflected in her relationships with her friends and family. She will be remembered as a true lady and a true friend, as well as a devoted mother to her four children., Preceded in death by her husband Robert B. Fox and her son, Robert B. Fox Jr., she leaves behind three daughters: Anne F. Gruening (Winthrop) of Juneau, Alaska, Beatrice F. Marlatt (John) of Lake Forest, Illinois, Mary F. Shamir of Tiburon, California. She also leaves behind five grandchildren: Robert Gruening, Caroline Gruening Vines, and Anne, Daniel and Maya Shamir. They all adored their "Mama"., Friends are invited to a memorial service Friday May 6th at 3:00pm at Church of the Nativity, Atherton, California. In lieu of flowers, gifts can be made to Oakwood of the Sacred Heart, Valparaiso Avenue, Atherton, CA 94027.


 


 

Bethany Kay Bereman

Bethany was born February 18, 1961 in Cody, Wyoming to John and Donna Bereman. Family legend has it that Bethany sang before she talked and was often found crooning the song "Blue Velvet'' in her crib. She attended Cottey College, in Missouri, and Alaska Pacific University in Anchorage, graduating from APU in 1984 with a bachelor's degree in communications. She went on to study acting in the professional training program at the American Conservatory Theatre in San Francisco., Bethany moved to Juneau in 1985 to work in Perseverance Theatre's Lady Lou Review, and falling in love with Southeast Alaska and its many multi-talented people, she decided to stay. During the 22 years she lived in Juneau she performed in many shows with Perseverance Theatre, Juneau Douglas Little Theater, Juneau Lyric Opera and Theater in the Rough., When she wasn't acting or singing Bethany enjoyed the wilderness of SE Alaska. Always taking full advantage of her environment, she worked summers as a wilderness kayak guide and manager for Alaska Discovery and winters as a pro ski-patroller at Eaglecrest., In the late 1990's Bethany decided to go back to school. Not one to do things halfway, she jumped in with both feet-- taking on the role of drama teacher at Juneau Douglas High School while also completing a masters of arts degree in Theatre Production. Never failing to bring energy and laughter into all her classes, she educated, inspired, and befriended countless students. Her classroom became a haven for all comers-with open arms, she welcomed any student who was motivated to learn and collaborate. She also welcomed many other professional theatre artists at JDHS. Whether she was producing a play or teaching Acting, Improvisation, or Dance, Bethany's theatre department was always alive with her infectious positivity and wicked sense of humor., In 2006, John Hickey literally danced into her life. Within a year the two had gotten married, moved to Hawaii with John's job, adopted Susu from China, and settled with delight into their new family. They were very thankful to have the years together that they did., Bethany is survived by her husband, Captain John Hickey, her four year old daughter Jade Lin "Susu" Bereman, her father and stepmother John and Sandra Bereman, her stepfather Frank Cordiner, her siblings Kara Bereman, Becky Bereman Grimes, Hubert Bereman, Michael Bereman, Taimi Kuiva and Inge Kuiva Lockwood and her nephews Cole and Taylor Powell. She is preceded in death by her mother, Donna Mae Gewecke and her sister Bobbee Bereman Powell., Bethany was a role model to her friends, family and students throughout her life as she worked with endless energy and enthusiasm to accomplish all of her dreams: to be a mother, a wife, a friend, an artist, a teacher, an adventurer, and a guide. As a mother she showed Susu all the joy and love that life can contain, as a wife she and John looked at the world through heart-spangled glasses, and as a friend she listened, laughed and cried with us when she was needed., To a friend we will never forget., A celebration of Bethany's life will be held in Juneau in May., In lieu of flowers, contributions to a memorial garden can be made by calling Bainbridge Gardens at 206.842.5888, or donations can be made to Hospice of Kitsap County at 570 Lebo Blvd, Bremerton, WA 98310.


 


 

Daniel Amasa Jones

Daniel Amasa Jones, a recent transplant to Austin, Texas, departed this life April 4, 2011, with his family at his bedside., He was born July 16, 1924 to Charles D. Jones and Loretta Sands Jones in Nome. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 64 years, Elda Doroh Jones, on Feb. 11, 2009., Dan was born and raised in the frontier town of Nome, to a pioneer of the gold rush of 1900. He developed a love of the wild Alaska land and learned the subtleties of gold mining on the remote claims of the Seward Peninsula., Dan met his life partner Elda while attending, . He was called to duty and served his country as an engineer during, . Dan and Elda were married in 1945 while he was stationed in Washington, D.C. After his discharge, he began a lifelong adventure with his new wife, moving the young Detroit city girl to his hometown. He moved to Fairbanks in 1947, where his first son, Daniel Jr., was born. He was a proud graduate, in mining engineering, of the University of Alaska in 1949. Dan returned to Nome, where his daughter Cynthia was born., Looking for a more varied mining experience, he moved to Bishop, Calif., and then on to Reno, Nev., where he began a 30-year career with the Bureau of Land Management. While in Reno, Nathan, "Mom's Little Jackpot," was born. In an effort to advance his career, Dan relocated the family to Washington, D.C., where his expertise on Alaska issues was recognized and he was transferred to Fairbanks for the arrival of statehood. It was there the baby of the family, Amy, was born., After serving as the land office manager for four years, Dan moved the family to Anchorage. He helped auction the valuable oil leases on the North Slope and took a new assignment in Salt Lake City. Dan became an expert in abandoned mined lands reclamation and further transfers followed. They moved back to Washington, D.C., Kansas City, Mo. and Springfield, Ill., where while working under the Reagan administration, he decided retirement would be a viable option to the new regressive environmental policies., Dan and Elda continued their adventures in life with a short stint in Anchorage and Edmonds, Wash. They finally settled into the longest stay of their marriage, 10 years, when they took up residence in Vancouver, Wash. The final leg of his life adventure was to Austin, Texas, in order to be closer to family after the love of his life, Elda, passed away in 2009., Dan was extremely social and enjoyed talking about his children, grandchildren, Alaska, geology, history, politics and the makings of his favorite libation. He was a member of the Alaska Pioneers Igloo 4; the Alaska Yukon Pioneers; American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical and Petroleum Engineers; and the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association., Dan is survived by his four children and their spouses: Daniel Jr. and Allison Grader of Reston, Va., Cynthia and Michael Solich of Denver, Nathan of Fairbanks and Amy and Scott Jeffress of Spicewood, Texas; his grandchildren, Madeline Grader-Jones, Nikolos Solich, Danielle Solich, Schuyler Jeffress and Jude Jeffress; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and their children., It is conceivable Dan could have chosen an easier, more secure path in life, but that was not his way. For those of us who shared in his journey we will be ever thankful for the vistas and experiences he provided., Memorial donations to celebrate his life may be made in his name to the Pioneers of Alaska Igloo 4, P.O. Box 70050, Fairbanks, AK 99707.


 


 

Danny Alan McSweeny

Danny Alan McSweeny, 50, of Delta Junction, passed away April 19, 2011, in Delta Junction of natural causes., Dan worked on the North Slope and for several construction jobs. He retired from Laborers Union Local 942 and was employed in the Operating Engineers Union Local 302. He was a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, as well as a member of the Moose Lodge 911, Sportsman's associations and Ducks Unlimited., Dan is survived by his mother, Betty McSweeny of Shellsburg, Iowa; sister and brother-in-law, Diane and Kevin Konichek of North Pole; brother, Don McSweeny of Fairbanks; nieces, Casey Andrews and Carrie Konichek; nephews, Clyde and Cody Konichek; and many other aunts, uncles, cousins and good friends., Dan was preceded in death by his father, Everette McSweeny; and younger brother, Dennis McSweeny., A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, April 27, at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in Delta Junction at 11 a.m. with the Rev. John Martinek, celebrant. A viewing will be held one hour prior to services starting at 10 a.m., In lieu of flowers donations in his name may be made to the following associations: Ducks Unlimited (1(800) 45-DUCKS) or The NRA Foundation, 11250 Waples Mill Road, Fairfax, VA 22030., Arrangements were entrusted to Chapel of Chimes Funeral Home.


 


 

David Henley*

Longtime Alaskan David Woodburn Henley, 90, died Dec. 6, 2010, in Apache Junction, Ariz., of natural causes. He was born July 11, 1920, in Belle Fourche, S.D. He left home at a very young age to become a cowboy in New Mexico, Arizona and Utah. On an April day, on a ranch in Boulder, Utah, he met Shirley H. Jepsen. They married in Flagstaff, Ariz., in June 1940., That year, David joined the, . He and was stationed in England with the 353rd Squadron, 354th Fighter Group, as a P-51 pilot. After 23 missions, he was shot down and spent the next year in a German prisoner of war camp. David was liberated in April 1945, and returned to the United States. In some ways, this flying experience may have been David's most important for his dedication as a patriot and pilot. However, those 23 missions were hardly his last loyalty and skilled finesse in the aviation industry. He was an accomplished, capable and skilled Alaska bush pilot., After David was released from the Army, he traveled to Alaska in April 1946. Shirley and their daughter Patricia arrived on June 6, 1946. Thus began this family's Alaska adventure, an adventure that cannot be duplicated, reproduced or copied., David, Shirley and Patricia homesteaded 160 acres four miles north of Kenai during the winter of 1946-1947. The Henley family owned and operated the Flying H Ranch at Kalsin Bay on Kodiak Island., David possessed a cowboy's philosophy. A handshake meant more than a written contract. He did not talk much and adhered to the importance of the viewpoint that "lettin' the cat outta the bag is a whole lot easier'n puttin' it back" and "never miss a good chance to shut up.", In 1963, the Henley's sold the ranch. David continued to fly., He died peacefully. He lived an adventurous, unique, exceptional, respectable and distinctive life., He is survived by his daughter, Patricia Jean Henley, and his sons, David Michael Henley and Troy Christian Henley. Other family members survive him in Alaska, Washington and Arizona., David was cremated and his ashes buried in southern Utah.


 


 

David Woodburn Henley

Longtime Alaskan David Woodburn Henley, 90, died Dec. 6, 2010, in Apache Junction, Ariz., of natural causes. 


 


 

Donald William McKee

A memorial service for Fairbanks resident Donald William McKee will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, April 30, at First Presbyterian Church, Seventh Avenue. A reception will follow., McKee passed away Feb. 23, 2011, in Yuma, Ariz. 


 


 

Edna Linnea (Almquist) Williams

Edna married Dean Williams in 1943 at Northern Light Church in Juneau. Their wedding reception was held at the Baranof Hotel. Except for one year during WWII when Dean was serving in the military, Edna and Dean returned to the Baranof to celebrate each of their 67 wedding anniversaries. Edna and Dean's two children, Janice and Gordy, were born and raised in Juneau., Over the years, Edna worked for various federal and territorial agencies, including the U.S. Forest Service and the Alaska Game Commission, and served for 23 years as office manager for the Juneau Chamber of Commerce. In 1980, when the Juneau Convention and Visitors Bureau (JCVB) was formed, Edna became the bureau's Coordinator of Volunteers and served in that position until her retirement in 1990. In that capacity, and for many subsequent years as a JCVB volunteer, she welcomed thousands of visitors to Juneau. She was also a great ambassador and tourism promoter for Juneau in her own many travels around the U.S. and the world., In 1983, the Alaska Visitors Association named Edna their Citizen of the Year. In 2006, Edna and Dean were honored to serve as Grand Marshalls of the Juneau 4th of July parade and, in 2008, were awarded a Meritorious Service Award by the University of Alaska Southeast., Well known for her thoughtful, sweet, fun personality, Edna was dearly loved and admired by her family and large circle of friends. She was a long-time member of Northern Light United Church, PEO Chapter D, Pioneers Auxiliary #6, and Rebekah Lodge. She enjoyed traveling, fishing, and spending time with her friends and family. For the final year of her life, Edna resided at the Juneau Pioneers Home. While living there, she enjoyed time with old and new friends, and with the wonderful staff who became extended family to Edna., Edna is survived by her husband, Dean; daughter Janice (John) Burgman of Gardnerville, Nevada; son Gordy Williams (Mary McDowell) of Juneau and Angoon; and grandson David Goodwin (Jill Packman) and great grandson Cooper Goodwin of Carson City, Nevada., A celebration of Edna's life will be held at Northern Light United Church on Friday, May 6th at 3 PM. A reception will follow., A memorial scholarship fund in Edna's name is being established to award a scholarship each year to a woman pursuing continuing education at the Juneau campus of the University of Alaska – Southeast. Memorial donations to the scholarship fund may be sent to PEO Chapter D, c/o Laurie Longsdon, P. O. Box 33613, Juneau, AK 99803.


 


 

Frank Charles Foster

Longtime Fairbanks resident Frank Charles Foster passed away April 10, 2011, unexpectedly at 70 while shoveling snow, a favorite spring activity., Frank was born Jan. 21, 1941, in Brooklyn, N.Y. His family moved to Rutherford, N.J. when he was 7, where he attended high school and later enrolled in Fairleigh Dickinson University. As a young man, he made his first trip to Alaska with a team of young people for outreach with the Presbyterian Church., He served in the Marine Corps from 1962 to 1965, and he trained as an electrician while stationed at Parris Island, N.C., and Iwakuni, Japan. After his discharge from the Marines, he followed his dream of returning to Alaska and attended the University of Alaska Fairbanks, studying biology, philosophy and, later, education, graduating in 1969., He married Nora Rakestraw on June 14, 1970, and the couple settled outside of Fairbanks, trying to suit their life to the boreal forest. Daughter Louise Mary Charlotte Foster was born June 3, 1988, bringing joy to their lives., Frank supported the arts, enjoying local theater and classical music. He attended Chena Ridge Friends Meeting. He and Nora were founding members of the Interior Alaska Land Trust, and he also volunteered at the Bread Line and at KUAC radio., He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, employed as an operator at the Fairbanks waste water treatment plant., He was preceded in death by his mother, Charlotte Lobmeyer Foster; sister, Charlotte Foster; and father, Frank Charles Foster., He is survived by his wife, Nora Rakestraw Foster, and daughter, Louise Mary Charlotte Foster., A memorial service after the manner of Friends will take place at 6 p.m., Tuesday, April 26, at Ken Kunkel Community Center in Goldstream Valley. A potluck supper will follow., Arrangements were entrusted to Chapel of Chimes Funeral Home.


 


 

Frank Howard Gillespie

Gillespie was a highly decorated Vietnam veteran. He is survived by his sister Jon Ella Miller and brother Larry Gillespie., A celebration of life is planned for May 6 at the home of Randy Walling, 16555 Lena Loop Road., A full obituary will follow. 


 


 

Frank Howard Gillespie #1

In 1965, Frank joined the US Army where he served in Viet Nam. Frank volunteered for an extended tour and was honorably discharged. Frank was awarded the Viet Nam Campaign Medal, the Air Medal with 22 Oak Leaf Clusters and the Army Commendation Medal with Valor Device. After his discharge, Frank joined the Alaska National Guard where he spent 15 years at the Command Support Maintenance Shop as a small arms technician., Frank loved Alaska and the outdoors and was most at home weather he was on the back deck of a boat trolling for king salmon or sitting at the base of a tree monitoring a nearby bald eagle nest. Frank always fished in the Golden North Salmon derby and Frank or his fishing partners usually placed in the top 10 fishing Frank's " secret drag". In 2010, Frank took 3rd place and helped his partners take 35th and 63rd., Frank had a wonderful sense of humor and had the ability to make people around him laugh and feel good. He loved jokes and no one enjoyed them more than Frank himself. Frank liked tulips in the garden and Frank liked tulips in the park but mostly Frank liked two lips in the dark., Frank is survived by his brother and sister of Washington state and an extended family of friends and associates spanning the globe., A celebration of life, potluck and beach party will be held at the home of Randy Walling, located at 16555 Lena Loop Rd on Frank's Birthday, May 6th, 2011 at 4:00 PM. Horseshoes will be played by Randy Land Rules. Randy can be reached at 907-790-3058. All are welcome.


 


 

Gary Tolen*

Former Anchorage resident Gary Wilson Tolen died Sunday, April 17, at Partners Care Hospice House in Bend, Ore., surrounded by family and friends. He was 61, Gary was born Dec 13, 1949 in Anchorage. He graduated from East Anchorage High School. He served in the United States Army from 1969 until his honorable discharge in 1971. He was awarded two, s while serving in the, Gary married Carolyn Matheny, who preceded him in death in 1975. On June 16, 1984, he married Debbie Werner in Portland, Ore., Gary to moved to Portland in 1979 and then to Gresham, Ore. He was a hardwood floors specialist. He enjoyed fishing, target practice, gardening and reading. He moved to Maupin, Ore., in 2006 to be near the Deschutes River, his favorite place to fish., He was a lifelong Oakland Raiders fan. His sister Kari says, "Friends and family were very important to him. He loved being around them. We are going to miss him terribly"., Gary was preceded in death by his mother, Anita McClure and his stepfather, Jerry McClure of Anchorage; his father, Don Tolen of Anchorage; and his stepson, Daniel Elllis of Greshman, Ore., Survivors include his wife, Deb Tolen of Maupin, Ore.; son and daughter-in-law, James and Tom Tolen of Portland, Ore.; granddaughter and husband, Melissa and Ricky Wyatt; great-grandson Lane Wyatt, of Yakima, Wash; stepmother Ruby Tolen of Anchorage; sisters Kari and husband Dennis McFeron of Anchorage, Sandy Giroux of Wasilla and Tammy Tolen of Anchorage; brothers Greg Tolen of Anchorage, Tuffy and wife Jeanine Tolen of Anchorage; and many nephews and nieces., A memorial service will be held at 1:43 p.m. Saturday, May 14, at Rose City Funeral Home, 5625 N.E. Fremont St. Portland. A second service will be held at 1:43 p.m. Sunday, May 22 at South Wasco County High School, 699 Fourth Street, Maupin, Ore.


 


 

George William Rogers

MAY 1, 2011 at CENTENNIAL HALL from 1-4 pm, The family invites the community to attend the celebration of life for George W. Rogers, Ph.D. There is an exciting program honoring Dr. Rogers' numerous accomplishments and contributions to the State of Alaska. 


 


 

Gladys Wahto

No Description Available! 


 


 

Gregory Friday*

Anchorage resident, Gregory T. Friday "Cracker", 57, passed away on April 19, 2011, at Providence Alaska Medical Center in Anchorage., Gregory was born in Hooper Bay on Oct. 8, 1953. Gregory enjoyed fishing, clam digging, berry picking, and hunting. He loved the outdoors. He loved people and socializing. He helped people whenever he could. He would always bring fish to the elderly in his village when he caught some. He was sensitive and caring to everyone. He was known as "Cracker" because he once wore a Cracker Jack hat for an entire winter and the nickname stuck. Everyone knew him as Cracker after that., Gregory is survived by David Bill and his family; Charlie Friday and his family; Jacob Nash and his family; Martha Adams and her family; his son Gregory A. Friday Jr.; wife Lee Grace Friday; and the Bourdon family., Gregory was preceded in death by his son Douglas J. Edward Friday; and Jeffery Scott Friday., Arrangements are with Janssen's Evergreen Memorial Chapel;


 


 

H. G. "Griff" Nordling, Jr.

HospiceCare, Inc. in Madison, Wisconsin, surrounded by his loving, family. He was 87., Griff was born in Juneau on March 15, 1924, to Homer G. and Beth, Nordling, and graduated from Juneau High School in 1942. He, graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1950 with a degree, in accounting, was a regional supervisor for the IRS, and after, retirement, maintained a private CPA practice until 2008., He was an outdoorsman, an avid fisherman and hunter who loved the, water and boating. He considered his children and grandchildren, to be the genuine wealth in his life., Surviving Griff are three children, Griff (Mary) Nordling III of, Washburn, WI; Jane (Rod) McDonald of Kansas City, MO, Mary Beth, (David) Graves of Mt. Horeb, WI; eight grandchildren, Eva and, Samuel Nordling, Sara, Laura, Lindsey and Adam McDonald, Rachel, and Alyssa Graves; sisters-in-law, Elizabeth Sullivan of, Wisconsin and Betty Lou Nordling of Oregon, and nieces and, nephews Dennis and Lee Harris of Juneau, Bonnie Harris of Sitka, and Gustavus, Aurora Fox of Seattle, Gail Thibodeau of Juneau,, Doug Nordling of Oregon, and Dianne Rocerito of California., Griff was preceded in death by his wife Mary, in 2005, a son,, Daniel, in 1971, and his brother C. R. "Rod" Nordling and sister, Elizabeth Harris., A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday,, April 12, 2011 at Our Lady Queen Of Peace Catholic Church, 401 S., Owen Drive, Madison with Msgr. Kenneth Fiedler presiding. Burial, will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery., The family can be contacted c/o Mary Beth Graves, 201 Blue View, Dr., Mt. Horeb, Wisconsin 53572. Memorials may be made to U.W., Carbone Cancer Center, Attn: Kelly Sitkin, 600 Highland Avenue,, K4/658,Madison, WI 53792-6164.


 


 

James "Jim" McCorcle

He moved to Juneau in 1954 to work for Harry Race Druggist. Jim met his wife, Norma Jean, in 1956 at a barbeque at the AJ Mine boardinghouse, and they were married in October 1957. They enjoyed impromptu picnics with family, dinners and playing cards with their friends, boating, and travelling., In 1964 Jim purchased an ownership share in Harry Race Druggist and later acquired the business outright. In 1969 he bought Wortman's Drug in Sitka, securing the transaction with a handshake. Jim sold the Sitka operation in 1974 and his Juneau store, then known as McCorcle Pharmacy, in 1986 to Juneau Drug where he worked until he retired in 1994. Jim served on the Alaska State Board of Pharmacy for eight years and received the Bowl of Hygeia, a prestigious award for service to the pharmacy profession, from the Alaska Pharmacists Association in 1988. He was well-known around Juneau for his friendly smile and desire to help the community. Jim was a Charter Member of Gastineau, Jim's co-workers at Juneau Drug honored him with a trip to Ireland to kick off his retirement. He and Norma Jean visited many countries since that first trip, including Russia, Greece, Italy, Croatia, Guatemala, Tahiti and Egypt. He loved volunteering for RSVP, spending his time chatting, running errands, and playing cards with less mobile fellow retirees. He loved puttering around in his gardens and feeding the birds. His grandchildren were quite impressed that he could feed the Stellar Jays from his hand. He appreciated the arts in all forms, enjoying many of the concerts and performances that Juneau had to offer, and won awards for his photographic pieces. He also enjoyed creating oil paintings and ceramic tiles with pictures of things he knew his family would enjoy., He is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Norma Jean and his three children: Patricia Neptune, her husband, Andre', and their children, Jacques and Hayley; Timothy McCorcle; and Kerrie Petch, her husband, Bryan, and their children, Raegan and McKenzie., One of his neighbors commented about Jim, "What a fine man he was: gentle, patient, kind, and strong." We will miss you, Dad, and will be thinking of you when we watch the Mariners and the Buffs!, A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, May 21 at 2:00 p.m. at Faith Lutheran Church. For information about the service, call (907) 586-2493., Memorial contributions in his name can be made to Hospice and Home Care of Juneau or to the charity of your choice.


 


 

James Dallas "Jim" Reiter

James "Jim" Dallas Reiter, 65, of Two Rivers, died Friday morning, Jan. 28, 2011, in St. Catherine, Iowa after a short battle with lung cancer. Jim returned to Iowa to spend his final days surrounded by family., The son of Andrew and Ruby Reiter, Jim was born in Texarkana, Ark., on April 14, 1945. A master welder, he moved to Alaska in 1974 to work on the trans-Alaska oil pipeline. Jim settled permanently in Alaska and founded his own company, WTC Welding & Fabrication, through which he worked around the world, including extensively in Russia., In 1985, Jim became interested in sled dog racing, working as a checkpoint manager and dog handler for the I,000-mile Yukon Quest race. He eventually established Raven Kennels in Two Rivers, owning at one point more than 50 sled dogs, and competed in four Yukon Quests from 1987-1994, finishing as high as 22nd. The highlight of Jim's racing career came in 1992 when he competed in the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Jim finished the race in 59th place in just under 19 days, gaining fame for being a member of the "Koyuk Five," a group of racers who still completed the race despite being stranded in Koyuk in a blizzard for three consecutive days., During his racing career, Jim established another business, Wilderness Transportation Co., which specialized in boat and dog sled tours of the Yukon River area, and led to him becoming an officer in the U.S. Merchant Marine., Throughout his life, Jim was a freelance artist, specializing in wood and ivory carving and jewelry making, and for a time, he established and operated Raven's Cache gift shop to support the work of local Alaskan artists., Jim was preceded in death by his parents., He is survived by brothers Nick Reiter, of St. Catharine, and Gary Reiter of Dubuque, Iowa, and a sister, Karen Reiter of St. Paul, Minn. He leaves behind many nieces and nephews, who will always remember him as a great adventurer. May Jim rest in peace., At his request, there was no service. His cremains were placed in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Dubuque and some were scattered in his beloved Alaska., A memorial will be held for him from 3-6 p.m., Sunday, May 1, at Two Rivers Lodge.


 


 

James Driscoll Nordale

Jim's career shifted into government in 1964 when he began work for the State of Alaska's Local Affairs office. In 1967 he was a city attorney with Anchorage and, when the first borough governments were proposed, he became the borough attorney of the first on the Kenai Peninsula in 1968. In 1972 he returned to Fairbanks as the North Star borough attorney. He left after twelve years and returned to private practice. He was elected city mayor of Fairbanks in 1988, an office held previously by two uncles and his grandfather. Jim and Sheila returned to the Kenai in 1991 until her retirement when they moved to South Colby, Washington, where he remained engaged in politics, his church, and larger community., Jim grew up with strong examples of public service in his father, an Alaska Territorial legislator, and his mother, a delegate to the Alaska Constitutional Convention. In every phase of his life, Jim was a dedicated public servant. He left his mark by ensuring that a good government, especially local government, served its people well., He was preceded in death by his parents, Alton and Katherine Nordale, and his beloved wife Sheila. Those left who will miss his deep and quiet love, unswerving loyalty and fierce intelligence are his sister, Mary; his children and their spouses, Meg Nordale and Bob Schruf, Molly Nordale, Jim and Misty Nordale, and Dan and Lisa Nordale; his adored grandchildren Josh, Seth, Michael and Katie Marquette, Stefani Bell and Bethani Schruf, Emmiline and Hanna Nordale, and Nick, Sam, Grace and Derek Nordale; as well as many friends and colleagues from his eighty years in Alaska and Washington., Funeral services were held Monday, April 25, 2011 at St. Gabriel Catholic Church in Port Orchard, WA., In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Friends of Manchester Library Endowment Fund, P.O. Box 128, Manchester, WA 98353-0128. Online memorial at


 


 

James Driscoll Nordale #1

James Driscoll Nordale died April 19, 2011. He was born Feb. 15, 1931 in Fairbanks and spent his childhood there and in Juneau. He attended St. Martin's College and Gonzaga in Washington state, where he met and married Sheila Berry in 1957. After completing his legal degree in 1959, they returned to Juneau where he entered practice with Robertson Monagle Eastaugh & Annis., Jim's career shifted into government in 1964, when he began work for the state of Alaska's Local Affairs office. In 1967, he was a city attorney with Anchorage and, when the first borough governments were proposed, he became the borough attorney of the first on the Kenai Peninsula in 1968. In 1972, he returned to Fairbanks as the North Star borough attorney. He left after 12 years and returned to private practice. He was elected city mayor of Fairbanks in 1988, an office held previously by two uncles and his grandfather. Jim and Sheila returned to the Kenai in 1991 until her retirement when they moved to South Colby, Wash., where he remained engaged in politics, his church and larger community., Jim grew up with strong examples of public service in his father, an Alaska Territorial legislator, and his mother, a delegate to the Alaska Constitutional Convention. In every phase of his life, Jim was a dedicated public servant. He left his mark by ensuring that a good government, especially local government, served its people well., He was preceded in death by his parents, Alton and Katherine Nordale, and his beloved wife Sheila., Those left who will miss his deep and quiet love, unswerving loyalty and fierce intelligence are his sister, Mary; his children and their spouses, Meg Nordale and Bob Schruf, Molly Nordale, Jim and Misty Nordale and Dan and Lisa Nordale; his adored grandchildren, Josh, Seth, Michael and Katie Marquette, Stefani Bell and Bethani Schruf, Emmiline and Hanna Nordale, and Nick, Sam, Grace and Derek Nordale; as well as many friends and colleagues from his 80 years in Alaska and Washington., A funeral will be held Monday, April 25, at St. Gabriel Catholic Church, 1150 Mitchell Ave., Port Orchard, Wash. The rosary will be recited at 10:30 a.m., and the Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11 a.m., In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Friends of Manchester Library Endowment Fund, P.O. Box 128, Manchester, WA 98353-0128., Arrangements were entrusted to Rill's Life Tribute Center, Port Orchard, Wash.


 


 

James Fuhrer*

Longtime Anchorage resident James E. Fuhrer died at his home on Friday, April 22, 2011, at the age of 72 surrounded by family and friends after a short battle with cancer., Jim was born May 25, 1938, in Waukegan Ill., to Charles and Naomi Fuhrer., Upon graduation from high school, James began his military career which took him to Florida, Germany, Morocco, South Carolina, Georgia, Texas, Alaska and he proudly served his country in Vietnam., After retiring from the Air Force, he started UT Enterprises, a contract drafting business. While continuing with UT Enterprises he later worked with Bomhoff & Associates, Datum Engineering, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers., However, when looking for Jim (Jimmy) he could be found on the golf course, working on his '56 Ford pickup or working beside his best friend and wife, Shari, at various charity events., Shari states, "Jim was a kind, loving man with a great sense of humor especially when 'Tee Hole" was present." She further says, "He was the wind beneath her wings.", Jim is survived by his wife, Shari, Orville and Gunter his basset hound, companions and an extended family of friends., In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to Wounded Warriors Project, National Processing Center, and P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675-8516 or Dollars for Dogs, P.O. Box 202402, Anchorage, AK 99520, or a charity of the donor's choice., A Celebration of Life is planned for July 16, 2011. For information please contact Shari at bassests@ak.net., Arrangements were entrusted to the Legacy Funeral Home Kehl's Chapel.


 


 

James Harrison

James Richard Harrison, 69, died on April 20, 2011 at Providence Seward Medical Center in Seward, Alaska. 


 


 

James Kirsch*

Former Alaska resident James A. Kirsch, 80, died with his loving family by his side on March 31, 2011. Born on Oct. 7, 1930, in Balflour N.D., his family was selected to be relocated to Alaska to colonize the Matanuska Valley in May 1935. His parents, he and three brothers lived in Palmer, Anchorage and Sunshine., Jim began working for the Alaska Railroad in 1945 and retired 39 years later in 1984 from the job he loved and talked about his whole life. In 1950 he married Elizabeth Alice Grubb and they had two daughters, Bonnie and Barbara. They divorced in 1968 yet remained good friends., Jim moved to Idaho in 1990 to be near family and warmer weather. He had lived with his daughter Barbara for the last seven years due to declining health., His family stated, "His love for our Lord Jesus Christ and his family was shown daily. Dad talked about his daughters, grandchildren and great-grandchildren with love to anyone who would listen. He will be missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.", He is survived by his daughters, Bonnie (Bob) Day in Alaska, Barbara (Rick) Pyles in Idaho, grandchildren Jennifer (Brad) Dugan, Jason (Kristy) Starner and Bryon (Geri) Starner all in Idaho, Ryan (Adair) Harman and Brandon Harman in Alaska;great-grandchildren Kimber, Brittney, Joshua, Emma, Caleb, Luke, Lexi, Jenna, Gabriel and Avery; nephews John and Andy Kirsch and brother David Kirsch., "He was the best father, grandfather and great-grandfather who has ever lived. We all loved him so very much," his family added.


 


 

Jay John Charles Ginter

Jay attended high school at the Admiral Farragut Academy in Tom's River, N.J. He graduated from Lycoming College in Williamsport, Pa. in 1970 with a degree in biology, earned a master's degree in marine environmental sciences at the State University of New York at Stonybrook and continued his graduate work at the University of Washington's Institute for Marine Studies. He was instrumental in organizing the first national conference on limited entry as a tool in fisheries management., During Jay's 30-year career with the National Marine Fisheries Service, he was recognized as an expert on "limited entry," programs that limit participation in commercial fisheries to conserve fish stocks and preserve fishing opportunities. Jay was best known for his work on developing the Individual Fishing Quota Program for Alaskan Pacific halibut and sablefish fisheries, which turned a dangerous race-for-fish into a safer, more economically rational, and environmentally sound fishing business. He always said "fisheries management was about managing people; the fish got along quite well by themselves.", Jay was an active volunteer within the Juneau community and Northern Light United Church, where he enjoyed singing in the choir. Jay played percussion with the Juneau Symphony and enjoyed marching with the Juneau Marching Band. Jay served on the board of the Alaska Youth Choir and was a trustee for Juneau Youth Sailing. Some of his happiest times in recent years were sailing on his J32 sailboat, the S/V Sarah Jane. He enjoyed racing but most enjoyed just being out on the water., Jay is survived by his wife of 29 years Jane McMillan Ginter, children Jason and Sarah, father John Ginter, sister Carolyn (David) Dalzell, sister-in-law Janice (Paul) Zieke, nephew Wil (Susie) Dalzell, niece Elizabeth (John) Selvey, and uncle Ken and aunt Flo Ginter. His mother, Margaret Ginter, predeceased him., A celebration of life will be held at 1:30 p.m. Saturday at Northern Light United Church, 400 W. 11th St., The family can be contacted at 115 Troy Ave., Juneau AK 99801-1452 or at, Memorial contributions may be made to Juneau Youth Sailing;, The University of Washington has created the Jay Ginter Memorial Scholarship Fund. Donations can be made online at http://bit.ly/eCZFP8 or mailed to the UW Foundation/Jay Ginter Memorial Scholarship Fund, UW School of Marine and Environmental Affairs, College of the Environment, 3707 Brooklyn Ave. NE, Seattle, WA 98105-6715.


 


 

Jayne Bailey Mark

Jayne Bailey Mark was born March 24, 1921, in Newsoms, Va., to Eason Julian Bailey and Rosa Adkins. Jayne outlived all seven of her brothers and sisters. She passed away April 9, 2011, of a heart attack while on her 25th cruise., She spent her early years in Virginia before she headed to Bremerton, Wash., to work in the shipyards. In 1945, she met and married her husband of more than 65 years, Raymond A. Mark. Together they embarked on an adventure of a lifetime together., In 1947, they headed north to Alaska in a 1941 Dodge with all their belongings in the back and their 1-year-old son, Michael. They worked together at the Fox General Store until the spring of 1948 when they homesteaded 138 acres at 6.5 Mile Steese Highway, which became known as Mark Acres., In 1950, Jayne flew out to Washington and gave birth to her daughter, Patricia. During the years, Jayne, along with her family, ran a fireworks stand, a cafe, a rifle range and a trap range. Later, she assisted both Raymond and Michael with Mark Acres Housemovers. She was always ready to be a lead car, follow car or whatever they needed. It was at times hard, but it was a unique and wonderful life., For 19 years she was known as the "shell lady" at the fair. Ray and Jayne spent many winters traveling around the U.S. and going on cruises. Two years ago they sold the last of their homestead and moved to Florida full time where she took great pleasure in feeding her birds. She loved Woody, Snowy and all of her little yellow feet., She was a loving and caring wife, mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother and now a great-great-grandmother and a good friend to many. In a life story she wrote for her daughter in 1997, she said "the grand old territorial days were the best - friends and neighbors helping each other. We took the time to listen and take advice from the long ago old-timers because they knew.", Jayne was a true Alaskan Sourdough. She was a life member of Pioneers of Alaska Women's Igloo 8 and a life member of the Fraternal Order of the Eagles Auxiliary 1037. In earlier years, she was a charter member of the Midnight Sun Lioness Club., She was preceded in death by her son, Michael. She is survived by her husband, Raymond Mark; her daughter and son-in-law, Patricia (Patti) and Don Benjamin of Fairbanks; her grandchildren, Michelle Acciardo of North Carolina,, Marguerite Bean of Maryland, Annette Rala (Floyd) of North Carolina, and Jonathan Powell-Mark of Fairbanks; nine great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandson; and many nieces and nephews from the East Coast to the West Coast who truly loved their "Aunt Jayne." She was friend to many who also will miss her., She will be laid to rest at a private service at Northern Lights Memorial Park., A celebration of her life for family and friends will be held at 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, April 27, at Dog Mushers Hall. Please come and share with the family., Arrangements were entrusted to Chapel of Chimes Funeral Home.


 


 

Judy Dafoe Hopkins

Juneau resident Judy Dafoe Hopkins, 69, died at her winter home in Portland, Oregon on March 9, 2011., Judy was born in Gooding, Idaho on August 8, 1941 and moved to Juneau in 1953. She graduated from Juneau High School in 1959. Judy worked for Senator Ernest Gruening in Washington, D.C.; as a secretary for Atlantic Richfield and ARCO Alaska in Anchorage; and as an administrator for the Legislative Affairs Agency. Judy was active in the League of Women Voters of Alaska and in the many activities of her Juneau High School class of 1959 over the years., Judy started her full-time career in quilting after being named Alaska state winner of the Great American Quilt Contest (the "Liberty Contest") in 1986. Since then, she has written and co-authored 18 design and pattern books for quilters, designed and produced tools for quilters, and designed a line of quilt-themed jewelry., Judy is survived by her husband of 49 years, Bill Hopkins; daughter Blythe Campbell and husband Rob of Anchorage; daughter Darien Reece and husband Jeff of Portland; Bill's daughter Peggy Hopkins and partner Jill Christiansen of Seattle; five adorable grandchildren; Dafoe and Allen cousins and family members; many cherished friends and former classmates; and hundreds of passionate and devoted quilters across the country. She was preceded in death by her mother, Lois Smith Dafoe, and father, Don Dafoe., Judy's family thanks her friends and classmates Jill Bryson and Dick Reynolds for their support in Judy's final days. Her family and friends will treasure their memories of an intelligent, accomplished and organized woman. As close family friend Forest Hembree said, "Judy left a large wake.", At Judy's wish, no public service will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to the Juneau Community Foundation's Arts & Humanities Fund,


 


 

Jullian Gravley

Jullian was a free spirit who loved to travel, cook, hunt, read, draw, surf, dive as well as anything that involved the ocean. He lived a life full of adventure and challenges, and will be greatly missed by all those who were fortunate enough to know him., There is a wake being held in his honor on Sunday, April 3, 2011 at the Hangar Ballroom starting at 6 p.m. All are welcome and encouraged to attend., There will be some of Jullian's artwork available for purchase, the proceeds of which will be used to start a college fund for his daughter Aija. Donations will also be accepted, and greatly appreciated.


 


 

Laurance "Dusty" Rhodes*

Laurance S. "Dusty" Rhodes made his tee time with some old friends on Monday, April 25, 2011. He left home surrounded by his family., Dusty was born on Oct. 14, 1938, in Richmond, Va., to Kathleen and Laurance S. Rhodes Jr. He joined the Air Force in 1957, which took him to a small radar site near Sioux Lookout, Ontario, Canada, where he met Rayanne Morriss, who would become the love of his life and they would share a journey for 51 years. He served in Vietnam and honorably retired from the Air Force in 1977 after 20 years of service. He and Rayanne then settled and made their home in Eagle River with their three daughters., After retiring from the Air Force, Dusty worked in the human resources field for multiple financial institutions, MarkAir and the state of Alaska. Then he retired for the second time and was finally able to fully pursue his second love, golf!, Dusty was an amazing husband, father, "Papa" and friend. To his wife he was a companion for life, a forever friend and a special love who shared laughter, tears and a lifetime of memories and celebrations. To his daughters he was their greatest champion, life lesson instructor, best friend, mentor, financial adviser and favorite dance partner. To his grandchildren and great-grandchild he was the best loved "Papa" in the world. He taught them to play golf and poker, attended their sports activities and provided an endless supply of smiles, hugs and kisses. As much as he was loved as a husband and father, he loved being "Papa." Dusty lived life to the fullest and always put his family first; this is the greatest legacy he left., In his fight against cancer, Dusty showed his remarkable spirit and determination to enjoy every minute of every day: golfing, taking sunny vacations and spending time with family and friends., Dusty is survived by his wife of 51 years, Rayanne; his daughters, Shawn Rhodes, Lynee Mullen and Michelle George; his grandchildren, Ryan Bode (Jessica), Riley, Erin and Darby Mullen and Wylder and Hayden George; and great-granddaughter Jordyn Bode; uncle Roy Rhodes; sister Faith Caglia; sister-in-law Cathy Morriss; brother-in-law Peter Morriss (Yvonne) and many nieces and nephews. His family also included honorary members; Bill Lancaster, Bruce and Heather Morinitti, Laura Simkins and Alex Toms. He was preceded in death by his son, Laurance "Lee" Rhodes and son-in-law Andy Mullen., The Rhodes family would like to thank all of Dusty's golf "buds" and the friends who supported him throughout his battle with cancer. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you honor Dusty's memory by teaching a child to golf or setting aside a day to spend with those you love., A celebration of life will be held at Joy Lutheran Church in Eagle River at 5 p.m. Tuesday. He will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at a later date.


 


 

Marilyn Ann (Cesar) Wieting

Born in Juneau on March 17, 1945 to Santiago and Mary Cesar, Marilyn attended St. Ann's School, received her diploma from Juneau-Douglas High School in 1964, and attended the University of Washington. She lived in various communities in Washington before settling in Juneau. She met and married the love of her life, Theodore Wieting, in 1972 followed by bringing into their lives, son Gregory. The family continued to reside in Juneau until treatment required a move to Anchorage in 2009., Marilyn was a talented cook and baker, who truly enjoyed hosting the many gatherings at her home for family and friends. One of her greatest joys was to bake favorite pies for her brothers; she and Ted also smoked salmon to share with friends and barbequed for any reason, including holiday-time. After her parents passed, she was the family member who attempted to keep the family together by inviting all to enjoy her numerous dinners. Other enjoyments in life during her earlier years included picnics and berry picking with the families of Alice Vavalis, Lena Brown, Harriet Roberts, Connie Paddock, and Julia Evensen., Professionally, Marilyn was a educator, working tirelessly as a JOM Counselor with Native high school students. She was a strong advocate on their behalf, guiding and advising them to graduate on time; she also put forth arguments with the administration to ensure that "her students" were treated fairly and equitably. During this time, she volunteered many hours to help with implementing the Early Scholars Program. There are many stories of her asking businesses and organizations to donate funds for her kids and soliciting tutors for those in need. Marilyn got great enjoyment in seeing the students achieve graduation and become responsible adults. She retired in 2005 after many years of employment with the Tlingit & Haida JOM Program., Marilyn was a Lifetime member of Alaska Native Sisterhood (Glacier Valley Camp 70), a tribal member of Tlingit & Haida, and a shareholder of Sealaska and Goldbelt Inc.. Known by her Tlingit name, Kutshi Tlaa, she was a member of the well known Lukaax.adi Clan (Raven Sockeye) of Haines, and leaves behind clan relatives in the Vavalis, Paddock, Marks, Nancy Jackson and William Fawcett families., Marilyn was preceded in death by her parents Santiago and Mary Cesar, sister Amelia McClure, brother Michael Cesar, and grand nephew DJ Maki. She is survived by her husband of 39 years, Theodore Wieting; son Gregory (Lorraina); her brothers Kermit Cesar (Andrea), Del Cesar (Marlene), Kenneth Cesar (Jackie Dailey) of Juneau and Niles Cesar (Florence Carroll) of Anchorage. Relatives also include nieces Martha Harden-Cesar of Seattle; Jennifer Cesar of Anchorage; Amelia Kendrick of Bothell; Nancy Maki and Kendri Cesar of Juneau; nephews Michael and Scott McClure of California; Lance Cesar, David Cesar and Robert Cesar of Juneau; and Michael Nannauck of Seattle. Marilyn was blessed by numerous grand nieces and grand nephews., Services will be held in Anchorage on Saturday, April 9 (3:00 p.m.), at the Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church, 8100 Arctic Blvd. ANS Services will also be held in Juneau on Saturday, April 23 (4:00 p.m.), at the Juneau T&H Community Center, followed by a potluck reception., Pallbearers will be Michael Dean McClure, Scott McClure, Robert Cesar, Lance Cesar, David Cesar, Michael Nannauck and William Goenett. Honorary Pallbearers will be Anna Katzeek, David Katzeek, Nathan Jackson, Nora Dauenhauer, Paul Marks, Tom Paddock Jr., Amy Williams and Marilyn Jean Evensen., The Wieting family can be reached at 4602 Garfield St. Anchorage, Alaska 99503.


 


 

Marilyn Johnson*

Marilyn Lyvona Johnson (71 years young) went home to heaven on March 18, 2011. She passed away in Ajo, Ariz., from ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease)., Marilyn's life will be celebrated with a memorial service at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 7, 2011, at the Turnagain United Methodist Church, 3300 W. Northern Lights Blvd. Parking is in back off Turnagain Blvd., She was born on Jan. 26, 1940, and raised in Sunnyvale, Calif., where she graduated from high school. While in school, Marilyn was a champion baton twirler, earning many honors., In 1966, she moved to Anchorage, raising her four children while owning many businesses. She married Jake Johnson, the love of her life, in 1977. They raised their eight children together, while deepening their love for Alaska., Marilyn owned and operated a collection agency and worked with her husband in a family-owned asphalt business. She was a longtime member (39 years) of Beta-Sigma-Phi Sorority. In 2000, she and Jake retired and spent the next 12 winters in Ajo, Ariz., Marilyn was a wonderful wife, mother and friend to everyone. She was always cheerful and had a kind word for anyone around her. She loved going out to dinner, attending plays, gardening, arranging flowers, traveling and visiting new places, as well as spending time with family and friends at their home. She will be truly missed by all who love her., She is survived by her mother, Lillian Gilmore, of California; husband, Jake Johnson; their children and spouses, Jayne Johnson, of Eagle River, Karen and Dan Rogers, Jeff and Nariz Johnson, Tim and Carina Johnson, Wendy Dresser, all of Anchorage; Bobette and Robert Eguina, of Grass Valley, Calif.; Sheri and Richard Young of Anchorage; and Michael Sowash, of Hayward, Calif.; and by 18 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great grandchildren; and brothers Wayne Gilmore, of Washington, and Robert Gilmore, of California., Charitable donation may be made on behalf of Marilyn Johnson to the Odyssey Hospice, at 6215 E. Arbor Ave., Mesa, Ariz., 85206 or ALS Association of Arizona, 4643 E. Thomas Rd., Phoenix, Ariz., 85018.


 


 

Marilyn Williams*

Marilyn Bolanz Williams was a courageous woman of keen intellect who lived life with passion and vivacity., Marilyn came to Alaska in the early 1950s, as she wanted to experience the last frontier. That is also where she met her husband Bill Williams, another fellow adventurer and a Tlingit Indian. His family paid her the highest honor when they adopted her into a clan and gave her a Tlingit name., She and her husband were active in politics. They were also both members of the Alaska Native Brotherhood and the Alaska Native Sisterhood, where she recently served as historian. At the same time, they both built a unique life where they raised five children in the Anchorage area., Marilyn and her husband Bill were employed at the Alaska Native Medical Center for almost 30 years., Marilyn loved to cook, to write, to garden and to travel. She learned fluent Spanish and wrote several books, one of them about the history of Tlingit totems. She was a longtime member of the Buddhist group Tromge Ling where she found a strong sense of community as well as spiritual meaning., Marilyn, her family wrote, was a true citizen of the world and believed in social justice., She was preceded in death by her husband Bill Williams, and is survived by her daughter Anna and son-in-law Nick, her daughters Maria Williams and Gloria Williams, daughter Carmen and son-in-law Chris Bydalek, her son Frank Williams of Arizona, her sister Gloria of Florida, and her granddaughter Sabrina, and numerous nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday at St. Mary's Episcopal Church on Tudor and Lake Otis from 2-4 p.m., In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to Tromge Ling Buddhist Center 1001 East Fireweed Lane, Anchorage, AK 99508, or The Boomer Esiason Foundation (


 


 

Marsha Marlene Pankratz

Local artist Marsha Marlene Pankratz died in her sleep April 14, 2011. Marsha was born April 7, 1954, to Helen and Fred Pankratz in Fairbanks., She was a happy child, full of life and always with a huge smile. Marsha lived in Oregon and Valdez before returning to Fairbanks in 1979. She worked many jobs from laundry service, cleaning, paper delivery and office assistance. Marsha was known as an artist who worked in several mediums, including watercolors, acrylics and collage., Marsha's day began with a cup of coffee. She often poured a cup for staff and brought it to them. She never had a problem getting up and ready for work. Just before leaving the house Marsha would select a hat from her varied collection, and sometimes that was a difficult decision for her. Marsha loved bowling and movies - and a visit to Hot Licks was always a good idea. On a sunny summer's day, Marsha could be found sitting in the sunshine enjoying the warmth and beauty of the day and watching the world go by., Marsha participated in, for many years and has numerous medals displayed to the awe of her nieces and nephews., Marsha loved the fair with the rides, animals and food and looked forward to it every fall. She entered her artwork in competitions and won many ribbons. Marsha was an animal lover and always enjoyed seeing the great variety at the fair., One of Marsha's favorite times was Christmas and decorating the tree was something that needed no prompting and made her smile, a smile that got bigger as the presents piled up over the weeks. As soon as the first snow arrived, she would start talking about Christmas. Marsha's favorite Christmas tune was "Frosty the Snowman" and she sang along with it, sometimes putting new words to the song. In the evening, she could be found sitting contentedly on the couch enjoying one of her favorite shows, "Scooby Doo," a good western or her all-time favorite movie "Grease" which Marsha called "Sydney" because of Olivia Newton John's character., Marsha was very patriotic and she liked to see military people in uniform. If the flag appeared on TV or was seen outside, Marsha would always salute. She cherished taking drives on base to see the soldiers and, if given the opportunity, would walk up to them and salute., Marsha always hammed it up for the camera, and you seldom saw a picture of her without her posing or making a face. Marsha had many unique sayings and funny antics. She was a kind soul, humorous and generous. She never failed to put a smile on people's faces., Marsha's favorite foods were white ice cream, cheese pizza, hot dogs and cowboy beans. Her favorite color was green, especially camo., A celebration of Marsha's life will be held at Fairbanks Resource Agency on Saturday, April 30, at 1 p.m. Please come to tell stories about Marsha and wear something green., Arrangements were entrusted to Chapel of Chimes Funeral Home.


 


 

Marvin "Gene" Harp*

Marvin "Gene" Harp was born May 3, 1929, to Maggie and Gilbert in Louisville, Ky. After a long battle with cancer, he died April 20, 2011, in Gresham, Ore., at the age of 81. Gene went to college as an art major, but left to join the U.S. Armed Forces during the, . While in Korea, he was injured in battle and received a, . Upon discharge, he returned to the University of Kentucky, graduating with a degree in Geology in 1960. He moved to Anchorage, with his first wife and young son when he was hired by the State of Alaska Department of Transportation, Highway Division. He continued working there until 1984 when he retired as a Chief Engineering Geologist. Many roads and highways in Alaska were Gene's projects., Gene married the love of his life, Roberta, in 1976, and helped raise her four children and was grandpa to the 12 grandchildren. Upon retirement in 1984, they moved to Gresham, where he lived until his death., Before retiring, Gene and Roberta spent many happy days sailing the Alaska waterways, including the inside passage twice. After retiring, they traveled across Canada and back across the U.S., around Europe, Mexico and many trips to Hawaii. Yearly, they visited family and friends in Anchorage and New Jersey. They enjoyed many activities and trips with friends in Gresham. Family times were the most joyous for Gene, not only with the kids and grandkids, but also with Roberta's many siblings. Gene was always happy when there was good food, children present and music playing. Gene's hobbies included photography, piano, uke, guitar, Western movies and anything historical., Gene is survived by his wife Roberta of Gresham, Ore.; son, Larry Harp; step-sons, Bill and Bob Wessels all of Anchorage; Dan (Karin) Wessels of N.J.; step-daughter, Susan (John) of Portland, Ore.; sister, Linda Stark of Kentucky, 12 grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews., A memorial Mass will be celebrated at St. Henry Catholic Church at 11 a.m., Friday, May 6, followed by Military Honors at Willamette National Cemetery.


 


 

Mary "Jane" Owen

Mary "Jane" Owen went home to be with the Lord on Sunday, April 17, 2011., Jane was born Sept. 29, 1939, in Abingdon, Va. She lived most of her life in Alaska, approximately 40 years., Jane once managed the Bear-N-Seal restaurant and also worked at Prudhoe Bay. She was always energetic, a hard worker, enjoyed people and always gave her best no matter what the task. However, she enjoyed being a homemaker the most., She applied her herself even more in how she loved and cared for her family. Her family was her life and she was the center of our family. Her home was wallpapered with photos of her children and grandchildren. She treasured being a grandmother and her grandchildren were the most dear to her heart., Jane made time for everyone and made them feel special. She not only told you "I love you," but showed you as well. She touched our lives with beauty, grace and generosity. It brought her great joy to do for others. Words cannot express how much we will miss her., Jane was the loving wife of Albert Higgins and she also is survived by her son, Ben Murray; daughter, Dreama Sherman; four grandchildren, Paul Murray and Lindsay Murray, children of her son, Dock Murray (deceased) and Grace Sherman and Joseph Sherman, children of her daughter Dreama; one great-grandchild, Quinlin Murray, son of Paul Murray; two sisters; and one brother., Jane's request was that there be no memorial service or flowers. To honor her memory, you may make a donation to Samaritan's Purse (, ), an organization that helps the less fortunate., If you would like to share a special memory of Jane with our family, please feel free to email, with your thoughts, stories, and/or photos., Arrangements were entrusted to Chapel of Chimes Funeral Home.


 


 

Mary Joyner*

Mary Marjorie (Arbanas) Joyner, 83, died on April 19, 2011, at St. Elias Specialty Hospital, due to complications following surgery., Marge, as her friends and family knew her, was born on November 29, 1927, in Yakima, Wash., to Walter J. Arbanas and Marguerite O'Brien. She spent her childhood in Wapato, Wash., where she excelled in athletic pursuits of all kinds: swimming, tennis, and skiing in particular. She graduated from Wapato High School in 1945, lettering in tennis; the only sport in which girls could letter at the time., Marge attended Marylhurst College, Oregon's oldest Catholic university, where she gave the nuns a run for their money before graduating in 1949 with a degree in history. She spent her summers during this time working as a bookkeeper for Skone and Conners in Wapato, Wash., Marge's sense of adventure led her to enlist in the, in 1950. After attending OCS in San Antonio, Texas, she was commissioned as a second lieutenant. She resigned her commission in 1953 at the rank of first lieutenant., Marge married Joseph M. Joyner Jr., an officer in the U.S. Air Force, on Dec. 26, 1953, in Pendleton, Ore. They were stationed at various military bases throughout the country and in Japan. It was in Japan that Marge discovered and embarked on what was to become a lifetime devotion to the game of golf., The family was transferred to Elmendorf Air Force Base in 1965, and Joseph retired and moved his family to south Anchorage in 1968. It was in Alaska that Marge took on a position of leadership in the game she so dearly loved. She served as president of the Moose Run Women's Golf Association in 1967. Marge was an avid promoter and participant, as well as a formidable competitor in women's golf. She played in women's and AGA tournaments, taking home numerous trophies., In her heyday, Marge was a regular fixture at her home away from home, Eagleglen Golf Course, where several of her children inherited a love for the game. Even in Marge's later years, before her failing health prevented her from doing so, she could be found there one or two times per week, swinging away alongside her golfing buddies., In addition to her love for golf, Marge took every opportunity she could to enjoy the Alaska outdoors. She loved to fish with her friends and family and rarely missed an invitation to socialize with them, often throwing impromptu parties at the family's hillside home. Marge had an irreverent and disarming sense of humor that reflected her passion for life and living. Her smile was her banner, and her laugh was a beacon like none other; it was always easy to find her in a crowd., Marge was a people magnet, and throughout her life she formed lasting bonds with people of both genders and all ages. Age was never a barrier to her, and barriers were rarely a challenge. Reflecting on this remarkable interpersonal gift, one friend mused that, "A person did not simply know Marge; they experienced her." Indeed, to experience her was to be fully absorbed in turn, and to be embraced in genuine friendship and love. She will be profoundly missed and forever loved, and the many people who experienced our beloved Marge will continue to cherish their joyful memories of her., Her husband, Joseph, and her brothers, Walter Arbanas, Jr. and Harold Arbanas, preceded Marge in death. She is survived by her children: Joseph Joyner III, Margaret Joyner, Mitchell Joyner and his wife, Rhonda Gallagher; Daniel Joyner and his wife, Doreen; Kelly Delaney; foster son Michael Mansfield and his wife, Cheri; 15 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many nephews, nieces, and other relatives., In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the, in hope that a cure may be found for the disease that affected so many of the people Marge loved., Arrangements for a memorial service are pending, and an announcement will follow in a future publication. For information, please contact her son, Joe, at 907-345-1065, or at his email address: jmjoyner@gci.net.


 


 

Michael Grimes

Michael David Grimes, 34, passed away April 25, 2011. Visitation Friday April 29, 2011 at Janssen's Alaska Cremation Center, 3804 Spenard Rd. from 4:00-6:00 p.m.


 


 

Michael Howard

Mike had a lifelong passion for learning and teaching. He earned his Masters of Fine Arts in English from Oklahoma State University. He began his martial arts training at Juneau's Korean Karate Academy on April 1, 1984. In his 27 years in the martial arts he taught many students and earned the rank of Third Degree Black Belt. He was the club's resident expert on martial arts weapons and forms. And many of his sparring opponents can attest to the accuracy and sting of his left hook. Mike also performed with the Perseverance Theater. He was passionate about Harley Davidson Motorcycles and his Canary Yellow Mustang "Tweety." Mike will be most remembered for his generosity, compassion and the love he had for his family and friends., Mike is survived by his father, Colonel (ret.) Charles E. Howard, his brother Mark Howard, his daughter Dr. Amanda R. Howard, his nephew Travis Bartlett-Howard, his sister-in-law Barbara "Bret" Howard, and his former spouse Eileen Mustain. No funeral services are planned. However, later this summer, his daughter plans to hold a memorial service in Juneau. If you are interested in receiving information about the memorial service, please email Dr. Amanda Howard at


 


 

Michael L. Gogerty

Soldotna resident Michael L. Gogerty, 55, died Monday, March 21, 2011, at his home in Soldotna. 


 


 

Montgomery "Monty" Dickson*

Montgomery "Monty" Dickson was survived by additional family members who were omitted from an obituary published April 27, 2011. Monty's sisters also included Autumn and Kristine Fredrickson of Anchorage, Sunni Holbrook; nieces Kali, Liliana, and nephew River of Maryland; aunts and uncles Bill and Caren Mongeau of Chugiak, Art and Diane Mongeau of Palmer, Joe Mongeau of Eagle River; Albert and Debbie Mongeau of Idaho, Harold and Gail West of Washington, Jim and Jeanie Arnold of Tennessee, Edward Ambrose of Chugiak; and numerous cousins. Monty will be greatly missed by his family and many friends. The memories and times spent together will remain forever in our hearts.


 


 

Nicholas Elmer Johnson

Nicholas Elmer Johnson died April 2, 2011. Johnson worked as a fisherman, deckhand, landscaper and a foundation layer. He attended the Wrangell Institute and served in the U.S. Army and the Army National Guard. He is survived by his daughter Lorena Mae Johnson, brother Joseph Johnson and other family members. His father Samuel Johnson Sr., mother Maggie James, brothers George Johnson and Sam Johnson Jr. and other family members preceded him in death. Services were held Thursday at the Church of God-Glacier Valley in Juneau and Saturday at the Assembly of God Church in Angoon., Johnson worked as a fisherman, deckhand, landscaper and a foundation layer. He attended the Wrangell Institute and served in the U.S. Army and the Army National Guard. He is survived by his daughter Lorena Mae Johnson, brother Joseph Johnson and other family members. His father Samuel Johnson Sr., mother Maggie James, brothers George Johnson and Sam Johnson Jr. and other family members preceded him in death., Services were held Thursday at the Church of God-Glacier Valley in Juneau and Saturday at the Assembly of God Church in Angoon.


 


 

Oscar Kawagley

Angayuqaq, better known as Oscar Kawagley, died in Fairbanks April 24, 2011. He had a long bout with renal cancer which finally caught up with him., He was born in Mamterilleq (now Bethel) on Nov. 8, 1934, and raised on the Kuskokwim Delta by his grandmother, Matilda Oscar, following the death of his parents when he was, 2 years old., In addition to the loss of his parents, David Kawagley of Akiak and Amelia Oscar of Bethel; he was preceded in death by his sister, Florence Mildred Blatchford; his uncle, Jesse Oscar and wife Celia; his aunt Martha and husband Clement Sara; and Anthone Anvil, husband of cousin Carrie., He is survived by his children, Sherry L. Colley, Sandra L. Haviland, Oscar K. Kawagley and Tamaree D. Kawagley, as well as his wife Anna Northway and his former wife, Dolores Kawagley, along with 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Other surviving family members include Marita Snodgrass, Martha "Tiny" Jack, Rose Mowery and Nils Sara., Oscar's life was one of many firsts as a Yupiaq person. His grandmother encouraged him to obtain a western education, along with the education he received as a Yupiaq child in the camps along the rivers of Southwest. Although this created conflicting values and caused confusion for him for many years, he sought to find ways in which his Yupiaq peoples' language and culture could be used in the classroom to meld the contemporary ways to the Yupiaq thought world., Along the way, he was the first Yupiaq to graduate from high school in Bethel, was commissioned as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army Medical Services Corps and completed four university degrees, including bachelor and master's degrees in education, an education specialist degree from the University of Alaska Fairbanks and a doctorate from the University of British Columbia. His 1992 doctoral dissertation, which examined Yupiaq ways of knowing, was the first at UBC to use an indigenous methodology of traditional stories and indigenous ecological knowledge. His scholarly pursuits included the publication of the book, "A Yupiaq World View: A Pathway to Ecology and Spirit," as well as serving as co-editor of two recent books on Alaska Native education., Oscar served for the past 25 years as a faculty member with the Cross-Cultural Studies and Education programs at UAF where he introduced the construct of "Native ways of knowing" and contributed greatly to the understanding of issues concerning indigenous peoples and worldviews that had been largely neglected in the past. He also served as co-director of the Alaska Rural Systemic Initiative and Alaska Native Knowledge Network., While the public face of Oscar was as an educator and cultural advisor, he also took on roles as an actor in television and films. He played a lead role in a feature-length movie, "Salmonberries," as well as appearing in episodes of the TV series "Northern Exposure" and the Disney movie, "Brother Bear." Among Alaska Native people, he was seen as father, uncle, friend, leader, teacher, mentor, professor and most recently as "Elder" - the most honored recognition among Native communities. Oscar's leadership and vision helped his people to find balance in communities, peoples and relationships, engaging them in discussions that challenged them to believe in their abilities and traditions., In each of these roles he left his mark and received numerous honors over the years, including the National Indian Education Association Lifetime Achievement Award, the American Educational Research Association Outstanding Scholarship Award, the Governor's Award for the Arts and Humanities, the Alaska Secondary School Principal's Association Distinguished Service Award, and the Association of Village Council Presidents Award for years of services to the people of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta. Oscar traveled a long journey, and his lifetime ends where it began as his ashes are spread on the tundra in Southwestern Alaska., In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Fairbanks Community Food Bank, or to an account in Oscar's name in support of an award that will be presented annually to recognize an indigenous scholar who has made a significant contribution to our understanding of Native ways of knowing. Contact information for submitting a donation for the AOK award is available at (907) 474-1902 or, or, . Donations to Oscar's family may be sent to Anna Northway at 1224 Denali Way, Fairbanks AK 99701., Friends are invited to bring a covered dish and a story to a gathering in honor of Angayuqaq to be held at, 5 p.m., Sunday, May 1, at the UAF Harper Building, 111 Geist Road., Arrangements were entrusted to Chapel of Chimes Funeral Home.


 


 

Owen Sarkis Tinker

Lifelong Ester resident Owen Sarkis Tinker, 39, died Tuesday, April 19, 2011., Owen was born June 14, 1971, in St. Joseph's Hospital in Fairbanks. He lived his entire life in Ester surrounded by family and friends., A lifelong victim of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Owen overcame many obstacles in his 39 years. He attended local schools, including Woodriver Elementary, Ryan Junior High and West Valley High School. Almost to graduation, the disease forced him to live on a ventilator for the next 22 years. He completed his GED to enroll in classes at UAF., Owen was outgoing, happy and a friend to many. He was a great son, a superb uncle and a caring friend. Twelve years ago, knowing he was already past his life expectancy, he was overwhelmed with pride to hold his infant nephew, Andrew Bray, in his lap. Niece Ashlyn Bray joined the family two years later. Owen never expected to know them and got to share 10 more years with them. Owen always loved being around kids and was willing to share his time with them., Owen adopted the UAF hockey and volleyball teams as family. If his health would permit, he attended every game and every function. He was in his space at the Carlson Center when UAF played the first game in the building. Figuring a volleyball couldn't do as much damage as a puck, he seldom missed a UAF volleyball game in the last four years. For each game he made a cartoon sign prompting UAF to victory., He loved to travel. Wanting to see where United States history began, he rode more than 200,000 miles in the right front seat of the family RVs, including two trips to the East Coast. Civil war battlefields were a favorite and he never passed one by if the RV could fit into the parking lot. Las Vegas was another favorite destination because the city is wheelchair accessible. Owen collected friends wherever he went and through his computer contacts. His wry wit, happy chatter and positive outlook will be missed by us all., Owen leaves his parents Jacqueline and Mike Tinker, his sister and brother-in law Aisha and Jon Bray and his best friends, niece Ashlyn Bray and nephew Andrew Sarkis Bray. Owen's extended family stretches from California to New Hampshire and Virginia. His special UAF family included Aaron Gens, Jordyn Montgomery and Mandy Grierson., A celebration of Owen's life will be held in early summer., Owen was always one of "Jerry's Kids," willing to help the search for a cure. Please consider a contribution in his memory to the Alaska Muscular Dystrophy Association, 121 W. Fireweed Lane, Suite 100, Anchorage, AK 99503., Arrangements were entrusted to the Fairbanks Funeral Home & Crematory.


 


 

Paula (Cook) Critchfield

In retirement, Paula and Burke enjoyed boating with their many friends in the San Juan Island Yacht Club and the Friday Harbor Power Squadron. Paula will always be remembered as a warm and welcoming hostess who loved entertaining friends and family in her home. Paula also loved skiing at Lake Tahoe, traveling in Europe, eating chocolate, and shopping at Nordstrom. As family and friends reflected on Paula's life, all were struck by her wonderful childhood memories of growing up in Juneau, Alaska, at Pt. Louisa, her pride in her Norwegian heritage, her affection for cats, and her love of being part of her grandchildren's lives., Paula is survived by her husband of 55 years, Burke, her daughter Pam of Oakland, California, grandchildren Abby and Andrew, her son Brad (Tracy) of Auburn, California, and grandsons, Ryan, Colin, Evan and Ian. Paula is also survived by her sister Dee Smith (Bob) of Sequim, Washington, niece Wendy, nephew Kris, and dear family and friends too numerous to mention., Services will be held at 2:30 on May 22nd at the Friday Harbor Presbyterian Church. A Celebration of Life will follow at 4:00 at the San Juan Island Yacht Club., Remembrances may be made to the Animal Protection Society of Friday Harbor, PO Box 1355, Friday Harbor, WA 98250 or the Friday Harbor Presbyterian Church, PO Box 946, Friday Harbor, WA 98250.


 


 

Robert Allen "Bunny" Lampe

Bunny was Raven T'akdeintaan from the Kaa Shaayi Hit (Head House) and Tax' Hit (Snail House) of Hoonah. His Tlingit name is Kein du Gwal' and was Kaagwaantaan Yadi and Kaagwaantaan Dachxan. He was baptized at St. Nicholas Russian Orthodox Church and in his youth was an altar boy along with his brother Richard. He worked as a commercial fisherman and also at Hoonah Cold Storage, the Excursion Inlet Packing Company, as Night Watch with Hoonah Indian Association and on the Alaska Pipeline. He proudly served his country in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany from 1973 to 1975., He married Sarah B. Sharclane on August 21, 1987 and had daughters Amber and Brooke. They made their home in Hoonah until his death. He enjoyed playing basketball in his younger years, and proudly watched his girls play the sport he loved so much., He was an excellent fisherman, and enjoyed sharing his catch, halibut and king salmon, with family and friends. Bunny lived all of his adult life in Hoonah. He often walked through town with his dog Little Guy, fishing gear and a big smile on his face., "He was an outgoing person, always talking, joking and saying 'Hi' to everyone," his family wrote. "He never hesitated to give you a salute and say 'Hey Potnah! How's it going?'", He is preceded in death by his father; grandparents Mary Wilson Brown Sarabia and Juan Sarabia; aunts Katherine Mills, Sue Belarde, Mary Lawson Jones and Gertrude L. White; uncles Leonard Davis, Edward T. Sarabia Sr., Robert Sarabia, Fred Hanke Jr., Moses Alex John, Eladio Belarde and Gilbert Mills and cousins Phyllis Mills, Gilbert "Butch" Mills, Patrick Mills, Barbara Sarabia., He is survived by his wife Sarah; daughters Amber and Brooke Lampe of Hoonah; mother Irene Loling (Sarabia) Lampe of Juneau; brothers Richard Lampe of Excursion Inlet and Timothy Lampe of Juneau; sisters Clarissa, Irene Jean, and Deanna Lampe, all of Juneau; aunt Helen Sarabia of Juneau; first cousins from the Sarabia, Belarde and Mills families; numerous nieces and nephews and many extended family members and friends., Funeral services will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday at the Tlingit-Haida Community Building in Juneau. Burial will be at 7 p.m. Sunday in Hoonah.


 


 

Robert Cleaver

Visitation and funeral for Robert Cleaver will begin at noon, today, Thursday, April 28, at Chapel of Chimes. He will be laid to rest on Saturday in Ruby., A full obituary will be published at a later date., Robert passed away on April 23, 2011, in Ruby., Arrangements were entrusted to Chapel of Chimes Funeral Home.


 


 

Robert Paul Cleaver

Our dearly beloved brother, nephew, uncle, cousin and friend to many, Robert Paul Cleaver, left this Earth to go home to be with his Lord on April 23, 2011, in his hometown of Ruby., Robert was born Dec. 13, 1963, to Gilbert and Zeta Cleaver of Ruby/Kokrines; he was delivered by Altona Brown in his parent's house in Ruby., Robert graduated from Galena High School with the class of 1982. Robert attended Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence, Kan. and Alaska Vocational Technical Center in Seward; both awarded him certificates. Robert made many friends, some who would become lifelong, while attending Haskell., Robert was a hard worker and very intelligent. In the past, he worked for the Ruby Tribal Council, Dineega Corp. and many other places. He liked office work but also liked to go firefighting as a Emergency Fire Fighter., Robert traveled the world including once going to China and walking the Great Wall. Robert was a tribal member of the Ruby Tribe, and Ruby was his home where he was loved by many. He was a kind person who didn't have much but, what he had, his friends and family knew he share all of it to help them if needed. He was also a shareholder of Dineega Corp. and Doyon Ltd., Robert like to hang out with his friends and family, always cracking them up with his off-the-wall sayings. Robert had the craziest sayings and the funniest nicknames for his family and friends. Robert like to watch sports with his friends, kicking back and having a cold one., Although Robert never had children of his own, his nieces and nephews held a very special place in his heart along with the rest of his family. His family stated, "Robert was a very kind and loving brother and we will miss him, but we find comfort in knowing he is home with our mom and dad.", Robert was greeted in heaven by his parents; brothers, Johnny Cleaver, Billy Cleaver, Ernie Cleaver, Elmer Cleaver and Richard Cleaver; sister, Glenda Cleaver; grandmother, Pauline Chappell; nephews, Kilburn Cleaver, Marvin Captain and Andrew Williams; and other family members., He leaves his family to cherish his crazy and humorous memories: brother, JR Cleaver; sister and brother-in-law, Linda and Arnold Captain Sr. and family; brother, Stanford Cleaver and companion Joyce; brother and sister-in-law, Stewart and Cheryl "Plumps" Cleaver; sister, Sharon Cleaver and companion Carlos Frank and family; and his nieces and nephews and friends to hold their memories their great-uncle and friend close to their hearts., A service of remembrance was held April 28 in Fairbanks at Chapel of Chimes., He will be laid to rest today, Saturday, April 30, in Ruby., A potlatch will be held Saturday evening., Arrangements were entrusted to Chapel of Chimes Funeral Home.


 


 

Roger Fairbanks

No Description Available! 


 


 

Shannon Conn*

Longtime Alaska resident, Ms. Shannon Rae Williams Conn, 47, died Saturday, April 23, 2011 at her home in Nikiski., Memorial services will be held 4 p.m. Monday, at Peninsula Memorial Chapel, 5839 Kenai Spur Highway in Kenai. Pastor Keith Randall will be officiating. Her cremated remains will be buried at the Bitterroot Mountains in Montana at a later date., Shannon was born November 22, 1963 in Longview, Wash. She moved to Alaska in 1982 where she has lived in Nikiski ever since., The family wrote, "Momma Dukes" was and still is a beautiful woman. Her kids and family were her everything. She taught us what not to do, but loved us even when we messed up. She was always there when we needed to talk. We think the things she loved most were pictures, candles, flowers, and knick-knacks. Our mom tried to be happy and make everyone else happy. Momma Dukes was the most stubborn women we ever knew. What she wanted more than anything was grandbabies and to be a great mom, which she was. - Damien Williams: You were my ray of light in the dead of night. - Kody Williams: The grass is always greener on the other side. - Tanner Comoza: "Momma tried." love ya momma!, She was preceded in death by her mother, Michele Burns; brother in-law, Ray Clapp; brother, Chuck Worster., She is survived by her sons, Tanner Comoza, Damien Williams, and Kody Williams; mom, Marie Conn; father, Charles E. Conn; sister, Kelly, Blossom, Abbie, Tina, Donna, Julie and Johnna; brother, Scotty., Memorial donations may be made in memory of Shannon to Kody Williams, 404 N. Klevin St. Apt. 4 Anchorage, AK 99508., Arrangements made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel and Crematory.


 


 

Shannon Rae Conn

Longtime Alaskan resident, Ms. Shannon Rae Williams Conn, 48, died Saturday, April 23, 2011, at her home in Nikiski. 


 


 

Ted Burton Baker

Ted Burton Baker passed from this life to heaven from cancer Saturday, April 23, 2011, at his home in Iowa. He would have been 94 years old in June., Ted was born June 25, 1917 in Dayton, Mont., to Fredric Edward Baker and Florence Mary (Hoots) Baker. His brother, Donn F. Baker, was four years older. The family moved from Dayton to Corning, Calif., then to a ranch in Janesville, Calif., where Ted finished grade school. Ted was baptized there in Baxter Creek at age 10. Ted attended Lassen High School in Susanville, Calif. He and Donn did the ranch chores. They hunted and fished to fill the meat locker and swam, played marbles and crack the whip on the (frozen) lake for fun., After high school, Ted worked for Standard Oil for about a year and worked on farms during harvest season maintaining equipment and loading crops on wagons., He married Vivian Mae Hunt on June 24, 1939, in Willows, Calif. Ted and Vivian had a son, David Lynn Baker, born Sept. 8, 1940, who only lived one day, a grief they always remembered., Their son, Ted Eugene Baker, was born about a year before Ted was drafted into the Navy during, . Ted said leaving his wife and little boy was the hardest thing he ever did. It was so uncertain - he didn't know where he was going or if he would ever return. Ted was sent overseas on March 17, 1945, to the South Pacific and served on Saipan. He was an aviation ordnance man second class and served as an aerial gunner on a PBY doing search and rescue. He was discharged on Dec. 7, 1945., After the war, Ted returned and built a home in Susanville and worked as a butcher and auto body mechanic. In 1947, after a "scouting" trip in 1946, the family moved to Alaska. Ted worked for ACS putting in phone poles up the Alcan Highway., Later, he worked for the Civil Aviation Authority which became the Federal Aviation Administration. While in the FAA, the family was stationed at Katella, Bettles, Cordova, (where daughter, Mary Anna, was born), Talkeetna and Fairbanks., During his time in Alaska, Ted did as much hunting and fishing as possible. He ran a commercial fishing boat in Cordova. In Talkeetna, he purchased a Tripacer from good friend, Don Sheldon, who flew climbers on and off Mount McKinley. He helped Don take care of hunters, and was gunner on aerial wolf hunts. Ted had a log cabin built across the river from Talkeetna on a homesite by a local Talkeetna man. He and two friends built an airboat used to take family and friends on many hunting adventures across the river., After retiring from the FAA in 1971, Ted and Vivian traveled to the Philippines to assist missionary friends. They took trips to several other countries as well, and visited many parts of the USA. They had a home built in Escondido, Calif., and lived there for awhile near dear friends Leroy and Jane Shebal., In 1976, the Shebals and Bakers built log cabins next door to each other in North Pole. Not wanting to miss out on seeing their grandchildren grow up in Alaska, Ted and Vivian finally made their permanent residence in Fairbanks for many years on Senate Loop., They attended Fairbanks First Assembly of God Church where they had been members since 1959. They made many friends through their ministry of hospitality. Ted and Vivian enjoyed numerous special times of fellowship and Rook games with dear friends and close neighbors, Winfield and Janice Beach and their children, Ceri and Greg., Ted assisted Master Guide Leroy Shebal on numerous hunting trips in the Brooks Range and other areas of Alaska. In later years, he and Eddie Hughes hunted moose at a private site owned by friends., After Vivian's death in September 1997, Ted met and married Geneva (Ross) Maley, of Colorado, a friend of his pastors, Ed and Jean Hughes. They resided in Fairbanks until Geneva's death in September 2009, after which Ted moved to Waverly, Iowa in March 2010 to live with his daughter, Mary Anna. Ted attended Waverly Open Bible Church and quickly developed many dear friends there. He had many good times with grandchildren and five great-grandchildren there., Ted is survived by his son, Ted E. Baker (Elizabeth) of Fairbanks and his daughter, Mary Anna Hunstiger of Waverly; grandchildren, Wesley A. Baker (Jacqueline) of Rockledge, Fla., Luana M. Barnes (Rodney) of Portland, Ore., Jennifer Wenger (Jonathan) of New Hartford, Iowa, Patrick M. Hunstiger of Waverly, and Darcy A. Hunstiger of Waverly; 11 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law, Clarence E. Hunt (Mary Olive) of Tomball, Texas; sister-in-law, Viola Hunt (Ron) of Montana and many nephews, nieces and loving friends. He is also survived by Geneva's two daughters: Kathy Illum (Virgil) of Divide, Colo., and Lynn Gray (Walter) of Yuba City, Calif., and by former son-in-law Pat Hunstiger of Texas., Ted was preceded in death by his son David Lynn; his parents; his wife Vivian; brother Donn; his second wife Geneva; and brothers-in-law, Ronald, George and E. Jay Hunt., A viewing will be held from 5-7 p.m., Thursday, April 28, at Kaiser-Corson Funeral Home in Waverly., A memorial service and reception will be held from 3-6 p.m., Tuesday, May 3, at First Assembly of God, 2830 Airport Way, in Fairbanks. For information, call 474-9112 or 457-1957., Ted's body will be laid to rest with his wife Vivian at Northern Lights Memorial Park in Fairbanks., The family requests donations be made for MCN International Missions to the Philippines and Asia for the medical needs of the Mount Moriah Tribal Training School students, or to help with the school's agricultural program. Donations may be given through the web site at, Arrangements were entrusted to Chapel of Chimes Funeral Home.


 


 

Theresa Shorty

Theresa Susie Shorty, 41, died on April 28, 2011, at the Alaskan Regional Hospital due to health complications. Services will be pending until Theresa travels back to Marshall, were she will be buried in the Marshall Cemetery. Arrangements are in the care of the Anchorage Funeral Home;


 


 

Walter Griffeth

Long-time Juneau resident Walter R. Griffeth, 92, passed away on March 29, 2011. He was born April 5, 1919 in Sacramento, California, but lived in Alaska and abroad as a station manager for Pan American Airways for many years, until finally settling in Juneau in 1980., Walter was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Anne. He is survived by children Linda Perez and her husband, Vic, of Juneau, Victoria Trafton and her husband, Donald, of Scottsdale, Ariz., Pat Ellis of Juneau, and Walter Griffeth Jr. and his wife Coco, of Fremont, Calif,; grandchildren, Stephen Hartman and Sarah and Andrew "AJ" Griffeth; great-grandson, Lucas Hartman, and sister-in-law Patricia Vella, of San Francisco, Calif., and many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews., The Family requests that memorials be made in the form of a donation to the charity of your choice., A celebration of life will be held in Juneau in July. A full obituary and details regarding the celebration of life will follow at a later date.


 


 

Walter Griffeth #1

He was born April 5, 1919 in Sacramento, Calif., but lived in Alaska and abroad as a station manager for Pan American Airways for many years, settling in Juneau in 1980., Walter was preceded in death by his wife, Anne. He is survived by children Linda Perez and her husband, Vic, of Juneau, Victoria Trafton and her husband, Donald, of Scottsdale, Ariz., Pat Ellis of Juneau, and Walter Griffeth Jr. and his wife Coco, of Fremont, Calif., and other family members., The family requests that memorials be made in the form of a donation to the charity of your choice. A celebration of life will be held in Juneau in July. A full obituary and details regarding the celebration will follow at a later date.