Kaella Joyce Evans

Jan 14, 1987 -

Sep 8, 2026

Born on Jan. 14, 1987, Kaella Joyce Evans came into this world born to be the ray of sunshine she was in everyone's life. An outside perspective may see her as "the life of the party" getting a laugh from anyone with her unapologetic offbeat humor and making it grow with her signature snort laugh that brightened up the room, or making you dance because she wasn't afraid to show that she was a amateur expert at "The Robot" which made you instantly more confident. Those times were most likely accompanied by her killer soundtrack of One Direction, *NSYNC, Good Charlotte, TLC or many other artist that aided in soundtracking a genuine Kaella moment. She could be explained as the physical apparition of a New Orleans parade just because of how much she brought to every gathering. However, those who knew her and grew with her know she was more than that. It wasn't the fact that she was the life of the party, it was because she was full of so much life that she wasn't afraid to share it. She always wore her heart on her sleeve and invited you to cry with her because she knew you both needed to cry before you carried on to the next adventure. She always made sure her siblings felt the same liveliness she felt even when she was at her lowest. Even in her sickness, she would still check up on everyone before even thinking of herself. As a mother though, it was where her love was the strongest, her son Gabe was her top priority as soon as he entered the world. She never let him go without, and she never made her love for him doubtful. Always gifting him with beautiful moments, whether it was going on adventures, watching movies together, playing games or singing Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You" in her best karaoke voice. He always will be her little guy, her rock and her everything. She was a fighter through her entire sickness, always thinking about the next day and never questioning the latter, but we know she found peace in her final moments being surrounded by everyone in her life telling just how much she gifted to them in her short time on earth.

This world may be missing a huge chunk of light from the biggest ray of sunshine that's touched gods green earth, but just like Kaella and her selfless ways, she made sure she left leaving that light in each and everyone of us.

She is survived by her parents, Gail and Ronald Evans; son, Gabriel Evans; siblings, Amanda, Shayleene, Nicole, brother Ronnie and brother in-law Tony; and many nieces and nephews.

A public visitation will be held on Monday, Sept. 21, 2026, at St. Benedicts at 12 p.m., with a service to follow at 1 p.m.; the burial will take place at the Anchorage Memorial Park Cemetery at 2 p.m.

Patricia Anne Fink

Feb 7, 1929 -

Sep 12, 2026

Our wonderful mother planned in advance her own obituary to save her family from grief. Here it is.

"I have always enjoyed writing – stories and poems. This is my story up to a point. My name is Patricia Anne Fink (nee Israelson). I was born in a hospital in Peoria, but raised in Chillicothe, Ill., a small town on the banks of the Illinois River. My parents were Edah and Nelson Israelson. Daddy went by the name "Swede" because both of his parents were Swedish. My brother David was born two years later.

The '30s were in the depression era. I don't think we suffered much. Daddy still had his job as timekeeper for the Sante Fe Railroad. We played games with the neighborhood kids, bicycled, went roller skating, hiked and fished. Now kids are obsessed with TV, computers, cell phones, iPads, TikTok and other social media. For me, it was an innocent time. At mass one Sunday morning, I saw a new boy. I found out he was Tom Fink and a year ahead of me in high school. As the saying goes "I set my cap for him." I was in 8th grade at the time. After graduation, I went to Marycrest College, a small Catholic school in Iowa. After two years, I returned home and worked in a bank. Tom and I married on Feb. 3, 1951, in Chillicothe. He flew up to Anchorage, Alaska, in June 1952. I followed with our first daughter in September 1952.

Tom worked in insurance and we went to a number of conventions - Mexico, Italy, Jamaica, Switzerland and Thailand. We also traveled all of Europe, the U.K., Africa, Australia and Egypt – sometimes alone or with family and friends. The summers were my gardening time. Now in my waning years, I read, do crossword and jigsaw puzzles and enjoy my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

As I write this, I am 97 years "wise." My two loving parents; brother, David; and son-in-law, Bu, have passed. The boy who I set my cap for when I was in 8th grade has also passed. He was my husband for 70 years. As I look back, I have no regrets. All but one of my children live here and my mind is still alert. I leave behind 11 beautiful children, Deborah, Ann, Maureen (Pete), Mark (Lyn), Michael (Karen), Kate (Don), Tom, Matt, Josh, Jody, Kelly; 17 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren."

A Mass will be held at Holy Family Cathedral on Sept. 25, 2026, at 2 p.m. Our Mother has requested pastel or colorful clothing, if possible.

Ernest "Ernie" Albert Hamm Jr.

Aug 20, 1928 -

Sep 11, 2026

Ernest Albert Hamm Jr., known as Ernie, passed away on Sept. 11, 2026, at the age of 98, at Marlow Manor in Anchorage, Alaska, with his daughters by his side.

Born on Aug. 20, 1928, in Gloversville, N.Y., Ernie's life was marked by his generous spirit and engaging personality.

Ernie graduated from Gloversville High School before attending Union College, where he was a member of the Alpha Chapter of Delta Phi, class of 1950.

His commitment to service was evident through his involvement with the New York Army National Guard from 1948 to 1950, and subsequently with the Alaska Army National Guard from 1950 to 1954.

Ernie's adventurous spirit led him to Alaska on a spontaneous road trip with two friends from Gloversville in a 1949 DeSoto convertible. He arrived on Flag Day, June 15, 1950.

His early career included working for the Alaska Road Commission and brief periods in construction and as a police officer in Anchorage.

In May 1955, he began his career with the Singer Sewing Machine Company as a salesman and, eventually becoming the Manager for the State of Alaska until his retirement in September 1983.

Not one to remain idle, Ernie came out of retirement the following month to open Riehl Sew n Vac, a business he and his wife, Bobby, successfully operated until their final retirement on July 18, 2011.

Ernie married Evelyn, affectionately known as Bobby, on Nov. 5, 1952. Ernie and Bobby were introduced by George and Ruth McLaughlin in October 1951. They were married by Magistrate Dorothy Saxton in Palmer, Alaska, at Dorothy's homestead. They shared nearly 70 years together until her passing on July 9, 2012.

Ernie is survived by his daughter, Sharon McCracken; daughter and son-in-law, Carol and Charlie Licho; son, Ernest Hamm III; daughter-in-law, Sally Hamm; son-in-law, Eric Titus; granddaughter, Alexandria "Lexi" Hamm; great-grandchildren, Emrys and Lyla Hamm-Pinnow; and courtesy "granddaughter," Ainsley Hipsak. He was preceded in death by his wife, Bobby; daughter, Karen Hamm; son, Greg Hamm; and son-in-law, Dennis McCracken.

Throughout his life, Ernie was a fixture at sporting events, particularly enjoying the Great Alaska Shootout. He and Bobby cherished their time at Nancy Lake and Iliamna, and their years traveling to Las Vegas, Hawaii, and various international destinations.

In line with his wishes, no services will be held.

Contributions in memory of Ernie can be made to Boys Town or a charity of your choice.

Ernie's legacy of warmth, dedication and community involvement will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Arrangements by the Cremation Society of Alaska, www.alaskacremation.com.

Curtis John Hipsak

Nov 30, 1967 -

Aug 20, 2026

Curtis John Hipsak, 58, passed away on Aug. 20, 2026, surrounded by loving friends and family at his home in Anchorage, Alaska, after a brave battle with a rare and aggressive mesothelioma cancer. Curtis was born on Nov. 30, 1967, in North Dakota, and relocated to Anchorage with his family in 1973.

Curtis enjoyed good food and had a passion for cooking. His first job was at the Arctic Roadrunner, an Alaska hot spot famous for its decor and delicious food. In the late 1980s he worked at the West Coast International Inn/Pipers, eventually becoming their Executive Chef. After 13 years he moved on to become the head cook at Judy's Cafe, where he worked until semi-retirement a few years ago.

Curtis loved cars and enjoyed modifying them with performance parts and premium sound systems. Over the years he owned many autos, with his latest passion being his 1987 Mitsubishi Starion. Curtis was always there to lend a hand when friends had car issues, and was a member of the local Alaska Tuner Catalog car club.

Curtis had a great sense of humor and a wicked little smile that predicted something funny was about to happen. He will be sorely missed by his family, friends and roommate of the last 27 years, Jason Canfield, along with his dogs, Hodor and Toola.

Curtis is survived by his mother, Eleanora Hipsak; sister, Brenda Burkhart; brother-in-law, Blase Burkhart; niece, Jennifer Burkhart; and great-nephews, Orion and Xion Owens. He is also survived by a recently discovered half-sister on his biological father's side, and half-brother on his biological mother's side. Curtis was preceded in death by his father, Nick Hipsak; and nephew, Jerry Burkhart.

At Curtis's request the family will not be holding a public service. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the American Cancer Society.

Leland "Lee" Hulbert

Nov 7, 1959 -

Aug 19, 2026

Leland Bradly Hulbert died in his home in Juneau, Alaska, of natural causes on Aug. 19, 2026. He is the beloved father of Dylan Hulbert, and beloved brother of Leslie Johnson, Jean Hulbert and Judy Anderson. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ward and Margaret Hulbert.

Lee was born on Nov. 7, 1959, in Anchorage where he grew up exploring Alaska with his adventurous family. He was a fearless alpine skier and loved being out in the Alaska wilderness. His love of adventure took him on world travels as well, until one day a detour on his way home took him to Juneau, where he fell in love with Southeast Alaska and made it his home.

Lee was a marine biologist and a proud commercial fisherman for many years. His passion for marine life led him to his research of salmon sharks with NOAA before landing a permanent job with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

Above all, Lee was a devoted father, and co-parent with Mary Frengle, to Dylan to whom he imparted his love of the outdoors and his great passion for music.

Lee was a sensitive soul who dearly loved his family and friends, cared deeply about the environment and championed the underdog. He is greatly missed by all who loved him.

A Celebration of Life will take place in Anchorage on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2026. Please contact Leslie at leslie4alaska@gmail.com for details.

Keith Baird Jenkins

Dec 10, 1945 -

Aug 24, 2026

Keith Baird Jenkins, a vibrant adventurer and devoted family man, passed away on Aug. 24, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of passion, exploration and resilience.

Born on Dec. 10, 1945, Keith lived a life full of thrilling pursuits and meaningful connections. An avid skier and snowmobiler, he mastered the backcountry slopes and shared his expertise as a ski instructor at Alyeska Resort in Alaska and in northern Japan. When time allowed, he cast his line as a fisherman, and in later years, he embraced the elegance of tango dancing. A true international traveler, Keith, journeyed across the globe, cherishing the diverse and fascinating places he visited on this planet.

Keith's career reflected his strong work ethic and pioneering spirit. A military veteran, he served as an Army E5 stationed in Korea from 1967 to 1970. After his service, he owned and operated Kincaid & Son Construction Company for over 20 years in Alaska, tackling challenging Bush contracts before retiring and relocating to Portland, Ore., around 2019. There, he pursued his love of tango dancing and enjoyed a warmer climate alongside a close friend.

Keith was predeceased by his parents, Bob and Lorraine Jenkins; former spouse, Betty Emerick; friend, Inika Steele; and nephew, David E. Kincaid. He is survived by his son, Bryan Jenkins, of whom he was immensely proud; sister, Lorraine A. Kincaid; and nieces, Katherine, Kris and Karen Kincaid.

A celebration of life will be announced in the new year, 2027. For details, please contact family members at email KBJlife1945@gmail.com.

Ronald Eugene Maddox

Apr 29, 1946 -

Sep 4, 2026

Ronald Eugene Maddox proudly served his country as a Vietnam veteran. After completing his military service, he fulfilled a lifelong dream by moving to Alaska.

In 1980, Ronald met Denise, the love of his life. Together, Ronald and Denise built a family and shared many years of memories. Ronald was a proud father and grandfather who deeply loved his three children, Alisa, Michael and Ryan, and his three grandchildren, Tristin, Jackson and Berlin. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by his children, grandchildren, family, friends and all whose lives he touched.

A memorial service will be held on Sept. 27, 2026, at 3 p.m., at the Sterling Community Center.

Neena Mae Miller

Mar 29, 1939 -

Sep 14, 2026

Neena Mae Miller, 87, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sept. 14, 2026.

Born on March 29, 1939, in Chewelah, Wash., to Mike and Marjorie Bussard, Neena lived a life rich in music, education and faith. An accomplished pianist and singer, she shared her love of music throughout her life. She pursued her dedication to learning by earning a master's degree in education from the University of Washington, Cheney. A devoted member of the Baha'i faith since 1968, her spiritual community and principles remained a central pillar of her life.

Neena is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Kenneth H. Miller; and three sons, Jon, Archie (Chris) and Jule. She was preceded in death by her sister, Myrlene; and brother, Marshall.

She led us in passing as she had throughout her life, with beauty, music and faith. Her warmth, musical spirit and dedication to her family and faith will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

Harvey "Axe" LeRoy Trees

Jun 14, 1940 -

Jun 23, 2026

Harvey "Axe" LeRoy Trees, age 86, passed away at 1:38 a.m., on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, of a ruptured aortic aneurysm at the University of Utah Medical Center, ICU in Salt Lake City, Utah.

He was the son of late Warren E. and Catherine M. Trees. He was native of the village of Aitkin, Minn. In his youth he lived in Fort Wayne, Ind. He graduated from Southside High School. His favorite sport was wrestling.

He loved playing lead guitar in a local band. He and his band mates joined the Army in 1959-1962, and took every opportunity to perform for the troops. After the Army they headed to west coast to make a name for themselves. Once they started opening for L.A. and Las Vegas show rooms. They made history and fame. They became known as The Checkmates LTD.

Due to the band breaking up, he went to work in the Las Vegas casinos as a dealer. He later moved to West Wendover, Nev., to work in Jim's Casino for some time.

He then moved to Anchorage, Alaska, where he lived for 18 years. He co-operated a commercial fishing vessel till fishing got too costly; after that he operated a gold trading business during the pipeline days.

In the 80s, he attended Alaska University to earn a degree in journalism and later became an editor for the Alaska Journal of Recovery and wrote stories for various magazines.

He became a professional photographer of people, wildlife and wild places, in parts of Alaska, Washington, Minnesota, Mississippi, Indiana, and Nevada. He loved getting out in nature and experiencing the peace and beauty of it all.

In 1994, he left Alaska to visit with his aunt Helen in Fort Wayne. There he met Janet and after a year they went to Washington state for photo opportunities.

Then a year later he came to West Wendover, where he lived the last 28 years of his life.

In 1998, he had secured a job at the Red Garter. He later retired to do photography on his time.

Though he had been a Godly man in 2019, he gave his life to Christ, so we know he is with Jesus Christ Our Lord and Savior now and always.

From Aug. 26, 1986, to 1:38 a.m. June 23, 2026, he was a continuously sober member of AA; had he lived to Aug. 26, 2026, he would have had 40 years of sobriety.

He is survived by his wife ,Janet Durbin; sister, Phyllis Oldenkamp; niece, Kimberly Lehman; nephew and wife, Kyle and Amy Lehman; nephew, Charles Hlawek; cousins, James (Jim) and Dee Fisher, Joyce Carol, Sarah (Greg) Gustafson and Carrie Francis Ferlita and possibly other cousins.

Celebration of Life for Harvey Trees was held on Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026, at 11 a.m., followed by Food and Conversation at the Blessed Hope Church, 855 Alpine St., West Wendover, NV 89883, with Pastor Chris Lund as officiant and Pastor Dennis Draves shared a few words. The floor was open to anyone else who would like to share.

Wilmer Wilson III

Feb 9, 1943 -

Sep 2, 2026

Wilmer "Bud" William Wilson III was born in Milwaukee, Wis., on Feb. 9, 1943. He died in Anchorage, Alaska, on Sept. 2, 2026. He was raised in Denver, Colo., and moved to Anchorage shortly after graduating from college to teach math at Romig Junior High. Eventually, he started Wilson Construction, building many of the subdivisions still in Anchorage today. Still later, he opened up The Realty Center. Later in life Bud started a lending business, which he found very satisfying.

Bud's true passion was the outdoors. He fished, hunted, hiked, biked and flew his own plane all over the state. He traveled extensively around the world. taking in all the sights and hiking whenever possible.

Bud saw opportunity everywhere and he loved adventures! He enjoyed planning them, carrying them out and, especially, telling the bigger-than-life stories about them afterwards. He had a zest for life that made him an exciting person to be around. He was optimistic about everyone and everything, and rarely said a negative word about anyone. As a result, he was well-liked and trusted by friends, family and business associates.

Bud leaves behind his wife of 35 years, Deborah Fink; daughter, Rayli; son, Catt; daughter-in-law, Chelsea; two grandchildren, V and Rocco; brother, Paul; sister-in-law, Pam; niece, Lorena; his men's group of over 30 years; and a large contingent of Fink family in-laws, nieces and nephews. He will be missed.