Vivian Aho

Feb 15, 1933 -

Aug 8, 2025

Vivian Jeanne Aho, 92, passed away in her sleep on Aug. 8, 2025, in Anchorage, Alaska.

Vivian spent her childhood in Seattle, Wash., where she was born on Feb. 15, 1933. She had one older stepsister but was otherwise an only child.

During the spring of 1954, she met the love of her life on a short trip to Anchorage. Within a few months she decided to quit her job as a switchboard operator, leave her hometown, and marry Stanley W. Aho.

Stan was a trapper and prospector who spent summers working his gold mining claim near Aho Lake in the foothills of the Tordrillo Mountains and winters in a small log cabin at Canyon Lake near the Skwentna River. Although Vivian had always lived in a big city, she didn't hesitate to climb into a small bush plane and spend her first winter in Alaska isolated from the rest of the world - an adventure she would later recall as one of her fondest memories.

The following summer the couple returned to Anchorage, just in time for the birth of their daughter, Doris. Their son, Thomas was born in 1956, followed by Ronald in 1961. By then the family had settled in Anchorage and spent the 1960s and 70s living in the mostly undeveloped Huffman and Rabbit Creek area.

Vivian was a kind and generous mother, and a wonderful cook. Having lost her mother to tuberculosis at age 10 and subsequently being abandoned by her father, she long searched for belonging—something she finally found in Alaska and in her marriage.

Her life was never easy, but it was rich in love and full of good meals. Over the years she worked as a cook and waitress at numerous restaurants, including the old Rabbit Creek Inn and H&H Lakeview near Talkeetna. In the early 1980s, while the family lived in Seldovia, she owned and operated the Harbor Inn Cafe.

Vivian had a green thumb and loved gardening, filling her yard with flowers and her greenhouse with tomato plants. She also enjoyed crocheting and learned to quilt from the women of the Funny River Quilters while living in Soldotna.

A couple of years after Stan passed away, Vivian moved back to Anchorage to be closer to her daughter, who provided endless love and support whenever it was needed.

Vivian requested that her ashes be spread over Aho Lake, where her late husband's ashes were released years earlier.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Doris and Doug Hodgson of Anchorage; son and daughter-in-law, Ronald and Dunya Aho of Kenai; sister-in-law Mary Jane Hernandez of Lafayette, Calif.; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family across the U.S. and Germany.

James Merle Crouch

Mar 23, 1943 -

Nov 14, 2025

James Merle Crouch, aka "Jim," age 82, of Anchorage, Alaska, received his final set of wings on Nov. 14, 2025, in Anchorage. Jim was born on March 23, 1943, in Christiansburg, Va., to James Ivey Crouch and Hallie Bramblett Elkins.

The Air Force brought Jim to Alaska in the 1960s, where he fell in love with its hunting and fishing opportunities. He met his beloved wife of 57 years, Carolyn, in a local restaurant and fell in another kind of love.

Jim served in the Alaska Air National Guard at Kulis for the majority of his military career. He was an aviator at heart, who had flown all over Alaska and worked on cargo planes. He and Carolyn raised their daughter Crystal in Anchorage. They spent many summers at their cabin at Lake Louise. He retired from service as a Senior Master Sergeant.

The best part of Jim's life in the latter part of retirement was being a grandfather, spending time with his family, being a good neighbor and gardening. Jim was a compassionate person who helped many people in need.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Crouch; daughter, Crystal Enkvist (Urban); and granddaughter, Annika Enkvist. Jim's memorial service is Monday, Nov. 24, 2025, at 11 a.m. to noon at Anchorage Funeral Home, 1800 Dare Avenue in Anchorage. He will be laid to rest at Fort Richardson National Cemetery. Donations in Jim's memory may be made to the Anchorage Gospel Rescue Mission and the Salvation Army.

Lloyd Hill

Mar 29, 1948 -

Nov 12, 2025

Lloyd Gene Hill March 29, 1948- Nov. 12, 2025 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lloyd Gene Hill, his battle with Cancer took him on Nov. 12, 2025. He left this world peacefully at home surrounded by his family in Anchorage, Alaska.

Long time resident of Anchorage since 1959, he attended local Anchorage schools, worked at the Anchorage Airport, and for most of his life owned a trucking and automotive business. Lloyd loved the Thursday night fights; he was one of the first to judge the fights when they started in 1989 at the Pines Club. He was also an avid demolition derby supporter and loved classic cars. Lloyd was loyal and charismatic; his sense of humor could light up any room. He was a hard worker, stubborn, brutally honest, and always late. But he would have given his last dollar to anyone that needed it.

Lloyd was born in Omak, Wash. on March 29, 1948, to Raymond (Pete) and Elvera Hill (Corkery). He is survived by his 5 children, Sandi Stedman of Colorado, Andrea and son-in-law, Larry Kittleson of Anchorage, Jessica Hill of Anchorage, Cameron and daughter-in-law, Calista Hill of Kodiak, Kelly Hill of Kodiak and adopted daughter, Anna Moellenbrink of Anchorage; 9 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; his sisters, Lois Johnson of Texas, Judy and brother-in-law, Warren Carda of Minnesota and Gail and brother-in-law, Ramon Hill/Vega of Arizona; and numerous nieces and nephews along with several cousins; and a long list of friends. Preceded in passing by his parents Raymond Lloyd Hill, Evera Lucile Corkery; brothers, David Ray Hill, Randy Scott Pennington; along with numerous grandparents, aunts and uncles.

Lloyd will be miss by all that knew him

Tiffany Rene Morrison

Feb 17, 1970 -

Nov 1, 2025

Tiffany Rene Morrison (Clark) of Anchorage and Wasilla, Alaska, passed away after her courageous battle with cancer, peacefully and surrounded by loved ones, on Nov. 1, 2025.

Tiffany was born on Feb. 17, 1970, in Tacoma, Wash., to James and Virginia Clark, later moving to Anchorage when Tiffany was 5. She graduated from Bartlett High School, where she played softball and was on the swim team.

Tiffany married Gregory Morrison - later divorced - in 1989 and had four children, Kaitlyn, Reace, Chance, Layne, plus a bonus daughter, Andrea. Tiffany lived in Wasilla for the last 24 years.

Tiffany spent motherhood fully immersed in her kids' schools and sporting activities. She was on the PTA, booster clubs and volunteering for any school event. She attended all sporting events, supporting and whistling for all to hear. She showed up not only for her own kids, but for their friends and family as well. Tiffany worked for the Mat-Su Borough School District for a few short years, where she gained the hearts of so many students and then worked 18 years at Alaska Sales and Service. If there wasn't a sporting event to attend, the family was camping, having game/movie nights or just partying with friends and family. Tiffany's greatest joy in life was spending time with family, and that joy became more once she became a grandmother.

Tiffany was preceded in death by her parents, James and Virginia Clark. She is survived by her children, Kaitlyn (Cory) Wagner, Reace Morrison, Chance Morrison, Layne Morrison and Andrea (Luke) Fletcher; grandchildren, Genesis, Pearson and Azriel Wagner, Jayce Rice, William Morrison, Emerie Anderson and Poppy Morrison, Lyla and Abraham Fletcher; brothers, Larry (Sheila) Clark and Barry (Anna) Clark; sisters, Jeri (Jeff) Pacey, Jorgia (Janis) Plume, Debra Spencer and Sandy Baker; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026, at Wasilla High School.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, in honor of Tiffany.

William O'rielly Perkins

Dec 22, 1951 -

Oct 17, 2025

William "Bill" O'rielly Perkins was born on Dec. 22, 1951 and passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Oct. 17, 2025. He was proceeded in death by his parents Etta Mae and Barney O'rielly Perkins and siblings . He is survived by his wife, Margaret Jeanette Perkins of 45 years; his children, Ray, Evan, Sarah, Lee, Preston, Elizabeth, Nicholas; and grandchildren, Maryonna, Kevin, Maxcime, Addison, Abby, Kaitlyn, Paxton, Julia, Harvey, Charlotte, Mollie, Joanna, Evelyn, Madelyn, and Declan.

Bill graduated from Chugiak Highschool in 1970 with the first ever varsity letter in football. He married Jeanette in 1980 and was sealed for eternity in the LDS Temple. He went on to work in fish sales, furniture sales and retired as a tug boat engineer with his captain license. He enjoyed Sports such as football and Hockey and loved sharing the experiences with his family especially the grandkids. He had a love for food and the ever famous Coca-Cola and twinkie was always within reach.

In his last moments he reminisced about his childhood pet duck daffy, adventures and mischief ( how many wrecked his cars) , had delightful phone calls with his sons that couldn't be there, and expressed his adoration for his cute wife, good looking children and grandchildren.

Bills Memorial Service will be Nov. 28, 2025 at Tailgaters in Wasilla, 7 p.m .

Robert Smith

Jul 11, 1943 -

Nov 21, 2025

Robert "Bob" Smith, 82, of Anchorage, Alaska, passed away peacefully at home on Nov. 21, 2025, surrounded by deep love and the quiet presence of family. Born on July 11, 1943, in Union Hill, N.J., Bob carried the values of his East Coast roots with him throughout a life marked by service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice. He made Alaska his home beginning in July 2011, embracing its community and landscape with joy.

Bob lived his calling as a United Methodist pastor, serving congregations in Washington, D.C., New Jersey, and Anchorage. His ministry was shaped by kindness, curiosity, and a belief that faith must be lived actively in the world. A defining personal symbol of his beliefs showed when Bob began growing his beard after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Bob vowed to never shave it again, as a reminder of the work still to be done in the world. Bob was known for sermons that made people think, laugh, and sometimes argue, usually all in the same conversation. In both ministry and everyday interactions, Bob led with compassion that touched countless lives.

On Aug. 12, 1966, Bob married his sweetheart, Judith "Judy" Hellmuth, in Washington, D.C. Their partnership of nearly six decades was filled with love, humor, and numerous gatherings and travels with family and friends.

Bob is survived by his wife, Judy; daughters, Judith (Brent) Goodrum and Anna Bourguignon-Lukas; and grandchildren, Emily, Elizabeth, Hannah Goodrum, Logan, and Arianna Lukas. He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred Smith and Anna Bourguignon; as well as five brothers and one sister.

Bob faced glioblastoma following his January 2024 diagnosis with extraordinary strength, humor, and grace. Even in illness, he continued writing, reflecting, and showing deep care for those around him.

Bob loved travel, storytelling, thoughtful conversation, and engaging with new ideas. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, integrity, and fierce love that will live on through laughter, stories, and all those who loved him.

A service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Nov. 29, 2025, at Turnagain UMC, officiated by Pastor Nico Reijns.

Kathryn W. Stevens

Apr 5, 1940 -

Nov 4, 2025

Kathy passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, with her husband, Tim, holding her hand.

Born on April 5, 1940, in St. Louis, Mo., she spent her youth in Cape Girardeau, Mo. Graduating from Southeast Missouri State University with a degree in teaching, she spent the next few years teaching in Michigan. With an interest in travel, she accepted a position in Schweinfurt, Germany, on a military base, teaching army dependents. She enjoyed weekends sightseeing around Europe with other teachers. It was there that she met a young army lieutenant named Tim, whom she married three years later upon his return from Vietnam.

The next years were spent teaching in Tacoma, Wash., while Tim was stationed at Ft. Lewis. During that time on weekends, she captained Tim's fishing boat while he ran the gear. After Tim's second tour in Vietnam, they returned to Ft. Lewis. Kathy kept busy teaching, getting a pilot's license and having her son, John.

Then, it was off to Alaska for Tim's last military assignment. Kathy resumed her teaching career, getting a master's degree in special education at the University of Alaska Anchorage. She became active in a women's group, PEO. She remained with that organization for over 60 years. All was not work for Kathy. She enjoyed weekends hunting, fishing and snowmobiling. A cabin was built on a salmon river in remote Alaska. After retirement, summers were spent on the river. She was joined by her family for visits during these times. The grandchildren especially enjoyed the adventures in wild Alaska.

Kathy's first adventure after retirement was an African safari. This was followed by vacations to Mexico, Hawaii, Central America, Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Bali, the islands of Micronesia and the Philippines. During those trips, Kathy enjoyed exploring ancient ruins, WWII sites, visiting different cultures and snorkeling.

Due to the onset of Parkinson's disease, travel stopped, and Kathy moved to Hailey, Idaho, to be with family. She also continued activities with PEO. She spent a lot of time visiting the Senior Connection's dementia group. With further decline in health, Kathy spent her last years in The Cove nursing home in Bellevue, Idaho. Tim was her constant companion throughout the ordeal.

Kathy is survived by her husband of 58 years; son, John; daughter-in-law, Carolina; grandson, Jack; and granddaughter, Denali.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Senior Connection.

Kathy's ashes will be spread in the river in front of her Alaska cabin.

George Monroe Taft Jr.

Feb 14, 1932 -

Oct 11, 2025

Mr. George Monroe Taft, Jr., age 93, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, in Katy, Texas. Born on February 14, 1932, in Riverhead, New York, George led a remarkable life marked by service, innovation, and a deep commitment to both his profession and his passions.

George's early years in New York laid the foundation for a lifetime of curiosity and dedication. After completing his education at Alfred University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, he later pursued a second Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the University of Alaska – Anchorage.

Following four years of honorable service in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, George embarked on a distinguished career in forensic science. He served as Crime Lab Director for the Texas Department of Public Safety until his retirement in 1984. Not one to rest on his laurels, George continued his professional journey with the State of Alaska's Department of Public Safety. There, he played a pivotal role in establishing the first Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory for the Alaska State Police—a milestone achievement that left a lasting legacy in the field. He retired from this position in 2002.

George was also deeply involved in advancing forensic science beyond his direct work. He served on numerous boards and co-authored the textbook "Forensic Science Today", contributing to the education and training of future generations in his field.

Despite his many professional accomplishments, George often remarked that he "never worked a day in his life," reflecting the joy and passion he found in every endeavor. Outside of work, he was an avid ice skater and dancer—especially fond of ice dancing—a pastime that echoed back to his New York roots and brought him great happiness throughout his life.

George was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Deane Jackson Taft. He was also predeceased by his parents, George Monroe Taft and Christine Florence Taft.

He leaves behind his son, Scott Taft and Scott's wife Maureen; daughter, Carey Taft Hook Westerbeck and her husband, Leon; as well as grandchildren, Colman Taft, Cameron Hook, Greyson Hook, and Victoria Hook; as well as, his niece and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held on November 29, 2025, at 02:00 p.m. at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home 6300 W. William Cannon Dr, Austin, Texas 78749.

Thomas Peter Walleri

Jun 16, 1947 -

Nov 1, 2025

Thomas Peter Walleri passed away on All Souls Day, Nov. 1, 2025, surrounded by his family. Tom was born on June 16, 1947, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, to Nicholas Walleri and Eliabeth Jean (nee Leary) Walleri.

Tom emigrated to Burley, Idaho, in 1952, with his parents and maternal grandparents, Thomas and Edna Leary, and later to Walla Walla, Wash. Tom grew up and lived in the Pacific Northwest. Tom graduated from Lake Oswego High School in Oregon, and attended the University of Washington and Western Washington University, where he met and married Barbara Klien on April 25, 1993.

Tom had a varied and adventuresome life, as a veterinarian technician in Seattle and the Tri-Cities; a contractor building homes in Camino Island, Wash.; and working in construction in Anchorage until he started working on the trans-Alaska pipeline beginning on one of the first CAT trains to Prudhoe Bay. Tom also worked as cook on the Cook Inlet oil platforms, jack up oil rigs from the Bering Sea to the Caribbean and Alyeska Pipeline camps. He managed remote work camps including Pebble Mine, Green's Creek and Kuparuk. He retired after working several years as a water and wastewater operator in various pipeline camps with the Operating Engineers Union.

Tom is survived by his brother, Michael Walleri (Kathy Hodges); nieces and nephews, Jennifer Imus of Lake Oswego, Ore., Michael Walleri (Megan) of Anchorage, Elizabeth Avery (Sakuma) of Las Vegas, Nev., Heather Walleri of Washington, and Nicholas Walleri of Anchorage; grandnieces and grandnephews, Evan and Logan Imus, Kim and Shawn Avery and Ahna and Addison Walleri. His memory lives on with his former wife, Barbara Klein of Washington, and numerous cousins and friends in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

Tom was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Nicholas and Daniel Walleri; sister-in-law, Lisa Walleri; and nephew-in-law, Bryan Imus.

Tom loved to fish, particularly along the Klamath River in Northern California and golf with family members. In retirement, he lived in Anchorage and spend his winters in the village of La Cruz de Huanacaxtle, outside of Puerto Vallarta. Tom took an active role in the lives of his nieces and nephews, particularly Ahna and Addison Walleri, with whom he shared his love of theater, museums, bugs, science and books. His legacy will carry on in their lives remembering his love of adventure and learning.

Judith Ann Webb

Sep 10, 1942 -

Nov 9, 2025

Judith "Judi" Ann (Fahlgren) Webb passed away peacefully, at age 83, in Palmdale, Calif. She was born in Danville, Iowa, to Glenn August Fahlgren and Dorothy Alwilda Chandler. She is survived by her two sons: Jason (Jennifer) of Littleton, Colo., and Brent, of Palmdale. Judi also leaves three lovely granddaughters, Brooklyn, Mya and Avery, and one charming grandson, Bryce, whom she cherished unconditionally.

Judi was preceded in death by her mother, Alwilda; two brothers, Richard and William Fahlgren; and her husband of 57 years, Warren Ernest "Ernie" Webb. Judi met Ernie in Alaska, where they married and raised a family built on love and friendship. There they lived for 36 years before moving to California in 1990. Judi was raised in Danville by her beloved grandparents Glen Chandler "Bampi" and Mary Agnes Simmons "Mamo," members of First Baptist Church. In high school she was a stellar athlete and state champion in basketball, was voted homecoming queen, and played the flute and led the marching band as drum major. She attended the University of Iowa for one year before moving to Alaska, where she graduated from Alaska Methodist University with a degree in business administration and economics in 1964.

In Alaska, Judi ran a successful frame shop with her dear friend Carol Merritt, and she became the office manager for Webb Brothers Construction in California for her husband Ernie and brother-in-law Mike, and later her dear nephew Michael. Judi was a compassionate volunteer and found deep joy in giving her time and energy with Hospice and SARS, a sexual assault response service. Her quiet strength brought comfort to many during their hardest moments.

Judi was a voracious reader, a reluctant skier and a willing adventurer and traveler, but she truly found a passion on the golf course with family and friends. Known for her long drives, her successes are remembered with her name engraved on the family trophy multiple times. At home, Judi's kitchen was the heart of the family. Her Rice Krispies treats and Valentine cookies were legendary, her hugs were healing and her door was always open. She was Judi, mom, Mamo and Bubba, and each name reflected a special bond and deep well of love.

Per her wishes, no formal services will be held, but the family is planning a celebration of life early in 2026. As Judi was a lifelong blood donor, the family has requested that remembrances be made in the form of a donation to your local blood bank.

Dorothy Jean Westberg

Jan 12, 1946 -

Nov 14, 2025

Dorothy "Dottie" Jean Westberg was born on January 12, 1946, in Miles City, Montana, arriving after her twin brother, Doug Lockie. She was the third of six children in her family.

After graduating from high school, she attended Montana State University in Bozeman, majoring in home economics. Just one quarter shy of graduation, she chose a new path and applied to become a Western Airlines stewardess. She moved to Seattle and flew the Alaska route, a decision that would change the course of her life. In 1969, she met Wayne Westberg on one of those flights, and soon after moved to Anchorage, Alaska. They married in 1970. She later left Western Airlines to devote herself to raising their three children: Wade, Kris, and Courtney.

She devoted her life to her faith in Christ and was an active member of her ladies' Bible study group for decades. She was a devoted sports fan for her children and loved her family with all her heart. Her kindness and gentle spirit were evident to everyone she met. Blessed with many gifts and talents, she shared them generously throughout her life, and she was always grateful for the financial blessings God provided. She also found great joy in singing, sharing her voice wherever she went. She will be sorely missed.

She is survived by her sons, Wade and Kris (Megan), and her daughter, Courtney (Christie); her beloved grandchildren, Asher and Avery; Alicia Westberg and numerous cherished nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her siblings: Jim Lockie; Doug Lockie (Vickie) and his daughters, Heather and Shawn; Dave Lockie (Jennie) and their children, Kiersten (Dave) and their daughter, Nicolina, Josh (Kathy), Tim (Jenny) and their children, Alexina and John David, and Becky; Jerry Lockie (Stephanie) and their daughter, Elizabeth, and her son, Jamison; and Joyce Evanson (Paul) and their children, James, Christae (Cody), Rachel (Adam) and their son, Liam, Makenzie (Victor), and Morgan (Riley).

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Olive Lockie; her husband, Wayne Westberg; and her sister-in-law, Kathy Lockie.

Memorial Service will be at St. John United Methodist Church (1801 O'Malley Road) at 4:00 p.m. on December 4, 2025