Norma Wilcox Booke

Sep 5, 1936 -

Feb 4, 2026

With mixed sentiments and mournful regard, we hereby memorialize the passing of Norma Jean Wilcox during the earliest hours of Feb. 4, 2026, in Homer, Alaska.

Norma passed away in her home after a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease. Although we remain sorry to see her go, she has finally joined her husband and parents in eternal solace.

Norma was born in Roseburg, Ore., in 1936, to George and Agnes Wilcox. She is survived by her brother and myself, and will never be forgotten by our families.

She taught me most of the good things I hold to be true today and what common sense I do have, I certainly learned from her. Rest in Peace, Mom.

Special thanks for the thoughtful consideration of Dr. Amen at Homer Medical, and best wishes to Hospice of Homer and to Mr. Elder at the Peninsula Memorial Chapel.

carolyn Virden Brown

Nov 21, 1937 -

Jan 27, 2026

Dr. carolyn Virden Brown of Juneau, Alaska, passed away on Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026. carolyn was born in Plainview, Texas, on Nov. 21, 1937.[1]

carolyn earned a B.A. in chemistry from Harden-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas, in 1960. She completed her medical degree at Wake-Forest University in Winston-Salem, N.C., where she met her future husband, Dr. George Brown. The Browns moved to Alaska in 1965, and raised two children in Anchorage and Palmer. carolyn's medical career included work for the Alaska Native Medical Center, City of Anchorage, private practice, the State of Alaska and service as a volunteer in Africa. Dr. Brown's many accomplishments and contributions to Alaska were recognized in 2023, when she was inducted into the Alaska Women's Hall of Fame.

Dr. Brown was predeceased by her husband.

She is survived by her daughter, Rachel Brown-Chidsey, Ph.D., of Palmer; son, Benjamin Brown, J.D., of Juneau; and granddaughter, Eleanor Chidsey.

Memorial services in Juneau and Palmer are planned for summer 2026. In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to an organization of your choice that supports women's health, or to Women's and Children's Health Associates, P.O. Box 20113, Juneau, AK 99802.

[1] Dr. Brown spelled her first name with an underlined lowercase "c" because that is how it appeared on her birth certificate.

Robert W. Bryson III

Jul 19, 1951 -

Feb 4, 2026

Robert William Bryson III, age 74, passed away on Feb. 4, 2026, in Palmer, Alaska. Born on July 19, 1951, in Scranton, he spent his childhood in Gouldsboro, Pa., where he always remained extremely proud to say he was from! Robert, or Bob as he was called by many, was the epitome of hard work, dedication, fun and love. As he would say, he was a legend in his own mind. As a skilled and talented Bodyman, he spent over 50 years building and painting cars, motorcycles and even planes. He took immense pride in his craft and was a mentor to many, including his sons. Many memories are shared from "hanging out" in his shop, where countless life lessons were taught to those who came to visit. His later years were spent in the town of Palmer, yet he never gave up his love of "the Butte." Many people passed by his shop doors there, where he would lend tools, his own work space or mostly his vast knowledge of vehicle repairs! Bob had a generous yet adventurous spirit. He lived life to the fullest, even some might say on the edge. His love for Mopars and riding bikes was part of what made him so special. On the exterior, he might look like a tough guy with his biker boots and tattoos, but he had a heart of gold. He loved his namesake son, Bob, immensely. Theirs was a relationship that is hard to explain to many; that is how he even wound up living in Alaska, where there were countless trips made together and stories to tell. Bob never wavered in his love for his family or his commitment to living life fully. He will be missed by many.

Beyond his work, Bob was a devoted husband to Canice, his wife of 35 years. He was a loving father and survived by six children: Richard Bryson (Melissa) of Hernando, Fla.; Mary Crooks of Sheridan, Wyo.; Linda Lawlor (Mike) of Lake Wallenpaupack, Pa.; Paul Bryson (Althea) of Fairfax, Va.; Jennie Bryson of East Meadow, N.Y.; Bob Bryson (Maggie) of Bunn, N.C. He was proud of his grandchildren, who may be spread out, but were the center of pride for him. Also surviving are sister, MaryAnn Bryson and family; and brother-in-law, Jim Kanavy and family. Additionally, he is survived by his beloved dogs, Loki and Foxy. Bob was very passionate about his animals; he loved and lost so many. He was a compassionate and empathetic animal whisperer who could speak their language. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Robert and Mary Bryson; and sister, ZoeAnn Kanavy. At this time, there are no arrangements. His ashes will be sent to his family, and a burial will follow sometime in spring 2026 in Pennsylvania. As was his wish, he will be buried next to his parents.

Retired Captain Emil L. Cekada

Mar 25, 1936 -

Jan 29, 2026

Former Alaska resident Retired Captain Emil L. Cekada passed away peacefully on Jan. 29, 2026.

Emil was born on March 25, 1936, at Duke Hospital in Durham, N.C. Emil graduated from Asheville School in 1955. He graduated from William & Mary with a B.S. in chemistry in 1959. Following his graduation, he enrolled in the University of North Carolina School of Pharmacy, where he earned his degree in 1962. During his time there, he was honored with the Lehn & Fink Gold Medal Award for Achievement in Pharmacy. He went on to complete his hospital pharmacy residency at Duke University Medical Center. While at UNC he met Margaret, his beloved wife and lifelong partner. In 1963, he entered the U.S. Public Health Service and was assigned to Indian Health Service in Mt. Edgecumbe, Alaska. While carrying out his regular hospital and clinic responsibilities, he served as a pharmacy consultant for surrounding communities and to the Coast Guard in the region. He and Margaret were married on March 27, 1964. Yes, the very day of the great Alaska earthquake. In June 1965, he was transferred to Arizona where he served as chief pharmacist at the Indian Health Service Hospitals in Winslow and Fort Defiance. Both Emil James and Emily were born in Arizona. In 1971, the family moved to Minnesota, where he pursued and earned his master's degree from the School of Public Health at the University of Minnesota in 1972. That September, the family found themselves back in Alaska as Emil became the Area Pharmacy Officer for Alaska Area Native Health Service of Anchorage, a position he held with dedication until 1992. In his role, he directed pharmacy programs throughout Alaska, an experience that allowed him to work with and learn from many unique communities. In 1982, Emil was honored with the Bowl of Hygeia Award, State of Alaska. He also served as President of the Alaska Society of Hospital Pharmacists, was a member of the Board of Directors of the Alaska Pharmaceutical Association and was Editor of the Alaska Pharmacist.

Emil and Margaret devoted themselves wholeheartedly to their children, Emil James and Emily — coaching hockey, being members of the Anchorage Figure Skating Association, attending every one of their children's activities. Sports were a central part of family life, bringing them countless shared moments and memories. One highlight was attending the Great Alaska Shootout every year. In 1992, Emil and Margaret returned to North Carolina. They settled back in Mount Olive, N.C., Margaret's hometown. Emil worked at the Federal Prison at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base until his retirement in 1993. Retirement gave Emil and Margaret more time to spend with family and friends.

Emil was preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Margaret; and parents, Dr. Emil B. Cekada and Louise Lewis Cekada.

He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Emil James (Jennifer) Cekada of Wilson, N.C.; daughter and son-in-law, Emily (Lyle) Draayer of Anchorage, Alaska; cherished granddaughters, Erica and Lauren Cekada and Amber Draayer and Justin (Tara) McDaniel; sister-in-law, Sylvia Pritchard; and niece, Jimi-Catherine Pritchard.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Eshelman School of Pharmacy at UNC, or to the Parkinson's Foundation.

Remedios Halog Doyle

Jul 7, 1944 -

Feb 3, 2026

Remedios Halog Doyle passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026, surrounded by family at Providence Hospital. Remie, affectionately known to family and friends, lived a full and adventurous life.

She was born to Clara and Ricardo in Villasis, Pangasinan, Philippines. In her youth, she had a talent for mathematics and loved reading and learning. She was the valedictorian of her high school and a local priest identified her acumen in school. The priest arranged for Remie to receive an academic scholarship to Saint Louis University in Baguio City, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude in mathematics.

After graduation, she spent time as a teacher in her hometown before moving to Guam and eventually immigrating to the United States. After leaving the Philippines and getting a taste of the wider world, she developed a love of travel and learning about local cultures in new places. She visited all 50 states and six of the seven continents.

Work in insurance brought her to Alaska in the mid-70s. She met her future husband, Stephen, "Steve," and the couple married in 1978. She became a naturalized citizen in 1979, and later worked for the State of Alaska for the better part of three decades.

For Remie, a book was always nearby. She was a voracious reader, often finishing multiple books a week. This persisted throughout her life. She was also active and health-conscious, walking regularly with friends and could be found in the organic section of the local grocery stores. She was quick to laugh and try new experiences. She was a devout Catholic, and she and Steve could be found every Saturday afternoon at mass in their familiar spot at St. Patrick's Parish.

She is survived by her husband, Steve; and two sons, Ernesto and Michael.

A service for Remie Doyle will be at St. Patrick's Parish at 12 p.m., on Friday, Feb. 20, 2026.

Kelly Jelich

Jun 9, 1959 -

Jan 11, 2026

Kelly Jelich (Goodman), beloved wife, aunt, sister and friend, was born on June 9, 1959, in Anchorage, Alaska, and passed away on Jan. 11, 2026. A lifelong Anchorage resident, she graduated from West High School in 1977.

She was known for her deep compassion, sharp wit and genuine nature. Kelly knew where funny lived, always bringing laughter, light and brevity to the darkest of times. Her fierce devotion carried to all areas of her life. She worked over a decade for Alaska Airlines customer service, and spent over 20 years with Ram Services. She was a second mom to so many and lived a life dedicated to kindness, generosity and making others feel seen. She was never afraid to offer advice, sometimes unrequested.

She was a protector of people and animals, especially her kittens who adored her immensely. Kelly brought a unique light into this world, and her absence will be deeply felt.

She is survived by her husband of 22 years, Donny; as well as her brother, Stuart Noble-Goodman; nieces, grandnieces, nephew, grandnephews, step-children, grandchildren and lifelong friends. She lived for those she loved and was preceded in death by her parents, John and Norma Goodman; brother, Fraser Goodman; sister, Leslie Warner; and niece whom she raised, Cristi Bailey.

Donations to Friends of Pets can be made in her name.

Albert Dow Patterson

Oct 24, 1938 -

Dec 22, 2025

Albert "Al" Dow Patterson, 87, born on Oct. 24, 1938, passed away on Dec. 22, 2025, in Anchorage, Alaska. He was born in Wichita, Kan., to Ross and Leona Patterson, and raised there with a strong sense of family, and humor that would define his life.

Al was a proud multi-sport athlete in his youth, lettering in football, basketball and golf. Golf, in particular, became a lifelong love, one that stayed with him long after the scorecards were forgotten.

He served his country in the United States military from 1959 to 1961, earning the rank of Specialist. Following his service, Al worked for Boeing, transferring from Kansas to Washington, where he met his bride, Linda. Al and Linda returned to Kansas, where Al returned to school. Al pursued higher education with a determination that set him apart. He earned his bachelor's degree in sociology from Wichita State University, his master's degree in counseling psychology from the University of Alaska, and his Juris Doctorate from the University of Puget Sound. Al was especially proud to be the first member of his family to graduate college, a milestone he carried with quiet pride.

Al spent several years working for the federal government with the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation and the Bureau of Land Management, before deciding to take a bold move and attend law school as an "old man" of 38. After graduating, Al was in private practice for many years, focusing on commercial collections, with his partner, Jeffrey VanAbel. Al and Linda eventually retired to Arizona. Retirement, however, didn't quite stick. He was twice "lured back" into public service, first as an Assistant Municipal Prosecutor and later as the Municipal Prosecutor, roles he approached with intelligence, integrity and his signature wit.

In 2021, Al returned to Alaska for good, a place that always felt like home.

Above all else, Al was a devoted husband, extraordinary father and grandfather. Married almost 60 years, he and Linda, set a strong example of wedded commitment. Through every up and down, they were in it together. He never missed an activity his daughters participated in, and showed up consistently and proudly. He was known for his unmatched ability to tell a dirty joke, his impeccable comedic timing and his deep love for movies that made him laugh, especially those by Mel Brooks and Monty Python. If it was irreverent, clever or downright inappropriate, Al was all in.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ross and Leona Patterson.

Al is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; daughters, Angela Patterson, Rebecca (Mark) Karstetter and Pamela (Mike) Webb; seven grandchildren, Prima, Jack, Walter, Quinn, Rose and Joe Webb, and Martin Karstetter; older brother, Marion Patterson; sisters and brothers-in-law; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and far too many friends to count.

A Celebration of Life will be held on June 21, 2026, in Wasilla, Alaska, with an open house at the home of his daughter, Rebecca, from 2-7 p.m. Please call 907-782-8687 for the address. Laughter is encouraged, stories are welcome and quoting Monty Python would be entirely appropriate.

Thomas "Tom" Rachal Jr.

Oct 29, 1941 -

Feb 9, 2026

Anchorage, Alaska, resident Thomas "Tom" Urbain Rachal Jr., 84, died on Feb. 9, 2026, at his residence in Anchorage.

At his request, no services are planned. His ashes will be taken to Natchitoches, La., for burial in Fern Park Cemetery.

Tom was born on Oct. 29, 1941, in Shreveport, La., one of three children born to Thomas Urbain Rachal and Amelie (Allbritton) Rachal.

Tom graduated from Vidalia High School in 1959. He received a B.S. degree in business education from Northwestern State University of Louisiana in 1963, and M.S. degree in the same subject from the University of Southern Mississippi in 1965. He taught in public schools in Haynesville, La., and Fort Myers, Fla.

Tom moved to Anchorage in 1970, where he switched careers to accounting and worked for several companies, including Chugach Electric Association, Cook Inlet Region Inc. and Alaska Native Foundation. In 1984, he began his career with the Merrill Field Airport Manager's Office as Senior Accountant, from which he retired on Jan. 1, 1998.

Tom's retirement years were spent volunteering his services for many organizations, including Identity Inc., various local, state and national organizations to reduce tobacco use among the LGBTQ+ population, Parents Friends and Families of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) and Alaska Workers Association. He traveled extensively as he had many friends around the country with whom he enjoyed spending his leisure time.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Urbain Rachal and Amelie (Allbritton) Rachal; brother, David Randolph Rachal; significant partner, Al (Elmer) Kaneta; and husband, Andre "Andy" Robichaud.

He is survived by his sister, Jenny Sybil (Rachal) Criner of Renton, Wash.; nieces, Cynthia (Knight) Craft of Belfair, Wash., Molly (Knight) Brannon of Renton, Susan (Rachal) Atkinson and Dee (Rachal) Clune of Baton Rouge, La.; several grandnieces and grandnephews; and his many longtime Alaska friends.

Donations in Tom's memory may be made to PFLAG Anchorage, P.O. Box 210874, Anchorage, AK 99521-0874; or Alaska Workers Association, 3243 Commercial Drive, Anchorage, AK 99501-3020.

Connie Jo Sanders

Feb 14, 1961 -

Feb 5, 2026

Dr. Connie Jo Sanders of Anchorage, Alaska, died on Feb. 5, 2026, after a short battle with metastatic breast cancer. She was 64 years old. She was born on Feb. 14, 1961, in Billings, Mont., to Horace and Patricia Sanders. Her family moved to Anchorage when she was 10, and she remained part of the Anchorage community throughout her life.

While Connie was a veterinarian with a distinguished work and volunteer history, she was proudest of her family and friends. She is survived by her husband of 32 years, Bob Loeffler; and two children, Rebekah Loeffler and Henry Loeffler and wife Saleha Belgaumi. She is also survived by her mother, Patricia Sanders; sister, Heidi Foster; brother, Greg Sanders and wife Nancy; and several nieces and nephews. She had a wonderful circle of friends, many of whom she remained close to since high school. Others she acquired during her active life in Anchorage. Connie traveled widely with her husband and friends and had visited Africa, Central and South America, and the Grand Canyon, among other places.

Connie graduated from Bartlett High School in 1979. She graduated from Washington State University in 1983, and earned a degree in veterinary medicine from Oregon State University in 1987. She worked at several veterinary practices around Anchorage and became the veterinarian and then manager of Anchorage Animal Control. She retired from Animal Control in 2000, when her second child was born, and spent her time as a mother and community volunteer. As a volunteer she was a Court Appointed Special Advocate, on the board of the Anchorage Waldorf School and the treasurer for several Alaskan political campaigns. After her children left home, she worked with friends at a local business. She retired in February 2025. She will be greatly missed.

Robert H. Tripp

Dec 13, 1937 -

Jan 30, 2026

Robert Hagerman Tripp, 88, of Palmer, Alaska, was born in Washington, D.C., to Brigadier General Robert C. Tripp and Effie S. Tripp, and passed away on Friday, Jan. 30, 2026. He was married to Carol L. Tripp for 57 years, and was known to family and friends as Bob, living a life defined by service, adventure, intelligence and a deep love of family and the outdoors. Bob's childhood was unique. As a military dependent, he lived inpost-war Germany, arriving at just8 years old in 1946, when much of the country was still rebuilding from the devastation of World War II. That experience shaped his perspective and gave him a lifelong appreciation for history, resilience and the world beyond the familiar. He also learnedGermanduring those years, a skill that stayed with him for life. Bob attendedParis American High School and Andover High Schoolbefore continuing on to theUnited States Military Academy at West Point, graduating in1960and receiving his commission as an officer in the U.S. Army. While at West Point, he was a member of the rifle and pistol teams, a reflection of the focus, precision and discipline that remained part of who he was throughout his life. He served with distinction in the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) as a Green Beret, at a time when the Special Forces units were still in their earliest chapters. His military career included service connected to theBerlin Crisissurrounding the construction of the Berlin Wall, with duties that took him intoEast Berlin. He also trained alongside elements of theFrench Foreign Legion in sabotage, and completed deployments inSaudi Arabia. During his tenure in the Army, Bob earned the rank of captain, and finished out his service with the 12th Special Forces Group (Airborne), U. S. Army Reserve in California. Following his military service, Bob built a respected and far-reaching career as acivil engineer specializing in cost and scheduling engineering. He spent many years withBechtel Corporation, contributing to major infrastructure and energy projects across the United States and Canada. His work took him toSouthern California;Page, Ariz., where he worked on theNavajo Power Station; and to northern Quebec as part of theLa Grande Riviere hydroelectric project (LG-2), including time inMontreal. He eventually brought his expertise to Alaska, working on theBradley Lake Hydroelectric ProjectnearHomer, and later continued his professional career as a consultant withMactecinAnchorageuntil his retirement. Over the course of his life, Bob lived in many places, but wherever he went, he carried the same traits: integrity, discipline, competence, curiosity and a sharp sense of humor. Outside of work, Bob was an avid outdoorsman. He loved hunting, fishing, boating, camping and shooting, and he passed those passions down to his three sons. Bob also had a deep love of dogs, and they were always part of his life and considered true members of the family. He received his first dog — a German shepherd — when he was 8 years old, and from that point on, he rarely lived without a loyal canine companion by his side. He was also a gifted storyteller, with impeccable comedic timing — the kind that could have an entire room laughing until they cried. Bob is survived by his beloved wife,Carol L. Tripp; three sons,Charles M. Tripp, Donald C. Tripp and Robert B. Tripp; granddaughters,Miesha Adams (Tripp), Brenna Tripp, Laura Hales (Tripp), Sarah Tripp and Anya Tripp; and great-granddaughter,Teagan Sayer. Bob will be remembered for his service, his brilliant mind, his adventurous spirit and his ability to make the people around him feel both protected and entertained. His legacy lives on through the family he loved, the stories he told and the places he helped build.

Bradford Holley Tuck

Jan 10, 1937 -

Feb 7, 2026

Bradford "Brad" Holley Tuck, 89, passed away peacefully at his home on Feb. 7, 2026, surrounded by family. Born on Jan. 10, 1937, Brad was the son of Russell and Margaret Holley Tuck of Newton, Mass. Brad was a 1955 graduate of Chauncy Hall School and went on to briefly attend Bates College, where he met his future wife, and love of his life, Una Fosdick. They married in 1963.

During this academic period, Bradford also fell in love with the study of economics, eventually earning his Ph.D. from Boston University. In 1965, a job offer inspired a relocation, and the first of many cross-country road trips, to the new state of Alaska. There, Brad began an enjoyable and rewarding career encompassing a variety of teaching and administrative roles at Alaska Methodist University, the Land Use Planning Commission and the University of Alaska, Anchorage, eventually retiring from UAA as a Professor Emeritus of Economics in 1999.

Brad loved living in Alaska and enjoyed exploring the state's great outdoors with his family and friends while camping, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, cross-country skiing and downhill skiing. Downhill skiing in particular remained a passion, and regular winter activity, until his 88th year. Life in Alaska was shared with his three children, a succession of beloved family dogs - Oscar, Buttermilk and Amber - and a unique and special group of Alaskan friends who enriched his life, and the lives of his family.

Brad also enjoyed classical music, and played the violin for many years, but one of his more impressive talents was his ability to build or fix almost anything; his own father modestly calling him from a very young age "handy." His VW and Dodge van camper conversion projects were a highlight, enjoyed by all the family on summer trips back to the East Coast to visit family.

Bradford was particularly thankful to his mother and father, whom he regarded as exceptional people, and devoted and loving parents. It was to his father's childhood town of Greene, Maine, that he and Una retired to in 2011, lovingly restoring the Tuck family farmhouse and beginning a new life filled with machinery, field management, woodchopping and a vegetable garden considerably larger than the one in Anchorage.

Bradford was a devoted husband, a loving father and grandfather, and a kind, thoughtful and supportive presence to all those in his life. He will be deeply missed.

Bradford is survived by his wife of 63 years, Una; children, Benjamin and partner Tracy, Cordelia and husband Ronald, Jessica and wife Pascale; grandchildren, Alanna, Kevin, Owen, Max and Etienne; brother, Julian and wife Sharon and their children Sheldon and Medora Stephens; and nephew, Jun Takahara; cousin, Maynard Forbes; and dear friend, Margritt Engel. He was predeceased by his parents; and brother, Abbott.

Our family offers its heartfelt appreciation to nearby family, Terri DeCoster and Debbie Avasthi, New England Cancer Specialists, Andwell Health Partners and Maine Death with Dignity for their compassion and support during the last weeks of his life.

Family and Friends are welcome to stop by between 1-3 p.m., for a simple gathering at The Fortin & Pinette Group, 217 Turner Street in Auburn, Maine, on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026. A burial service will follow in the Spring at Valley Cemetery in Greene.

To share memories and condolences with the Tuck family, please visit http://www.FortinPinetteGroupAuburn.com.

Donations can be made in Brad's memory to The Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine, https://www.gsfb.org or Doctors without Borders, https://doctorswithoutborders.org.

Laura K. Vogel

Nov 11, 1988 -

Jan 14, 2026

Laura Vogel, 37, passed away from sarcoma at her home in Burien, Wash., surrounded by her family and partner Matt Hole. She was born in Palmer and grew up in Eagle River, Alaska. After graduation from Chugiak High School, she attended UAA and received her BSN. She worked briefly as an RN at the Alaska Native Medical Center. She then continued her nursing career at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, Wash. There she became an Assistant Nurse Manager, respected and loved by her coworkers and managers alike for her kindness, patience, generosity, knowledge and people skills.

She moved to Seattle with her then-future spouse Shane Worden, whom she married in 2015. Together they raised a rambunctious dog, Kaya, and attended many concerts and sporting events.

Laura grew up playing ice hockey. She was passionate about the sport, playing boys comp hockey with the Mustangs and on other women's teams. She continued to play in adult hockey leagues her entire life, both women's and coed teams, traveling all over the U.S. and Canada to play in various tournaments. Through the close-knit hockey community and her travels, Laura met her partner, Matt Hole, who shares her deep love for playing hockey. Hockey was not just a game to Laura–it was a lifelong passion that shaped her friendships, adventures and family. She was instrumental in inspiring her niece, Juniper, to take up the sport, and in turning her sister, Erika, into a proud hockey mom.

Laura loved all wilderness experiences: hiking, backpacking, kayaking, packrafting and skiing, both in Alaska and Washington with many friends and family. There was never a body of water too cold for her to jump into. She especially enjoyed her outdoor adventures with her best friend Erin Johnson.

Gardening was an integral part of Laura's life, achieving certification in Permaculture. She taught everyone in her life the ways of a true horticulturist, right down to what to feed the worms in her worm bin. For sharing all her gardening wisdom, we are forever grateful.

She will be remembered every day and missed dearly, taken from us all prematurely. Laura, you skated a hard shift and surrounded by your family, when it was time, we said it was okay to get off the ice.

There will be two Celebrations of Life for Laura, one in Washington and another in Alaska.

Laura is survived by her grandmother, (Abuelita) Joy Lynn Conoan; parents, Matt and Kathy Vogel; brother, Adam Vogel (wife Mindi); sisters, Erika Wright (husband Mike) and Jessie Bonadurer (husband Paul); nieces, Olive and Juniper Wright; nephews, Lewi, Emri and Ira Bonadurer; cousin, Jason Arnold (wife Bekah); and partner, Matt Hole. Additionally she leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and many, many friends.

William Webb

Oct 17, 1942 -

Jan 24, 2026

William F. "Bill" Webb, 83, passed away on Jan. 24, 2026, at Providence Hospital following a long illness.

Bill was born on Oct. 17, 1942, in Kansas City, Mo., to Ellis and Jane (Backus) Webb. Growing up in Kansas City, he demonstrated early the industrious spirit and leadership that would define his life. Even before earning his first paycheck, Bill achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.

At age 16, Bill began working as a busboy at the Hillcrest Country Club in Kansas City. Through dedication and ability, he quickly rose to assistant manager of the 1,000-member club. This experience laid the foundation for a lifelong career in food service and hospitality—one that would eventually lead him to Alaska.

In 1975, Bill and his wife, Barbara, accepted an assignment with Greyhound Food Management supporting construction of the trans-Alaska pipeline. Asked years later why he stayed in Alaska for the next five decades, Bill answered simply, "It was home."

After first settling in Fairbanks, the couple moved to Anchorage, Alaska, in 1977. During pipeline construction, Bill found his calling in the "oil patch," managing housing and food services for hundreds of employees on oil rigs, offshore platforms and remote camps throughout Alaska and California.

In the 1970s, Bill hired Joe Mathis to manage a pipeline camp, and later brought him on to work on an offshore rig in the Beaufort Sea. The two remained close friends for more than 50 years.

"He was not bashful. He didn't shy away from being forthcoming," said Mathis. "But everything was about making Alaska better."

In 1978, Bill founded Arctic Hosts, a company specializing in remote-site support services, including food service, security, housekeeping and other essential operations. The company supported projects across Alaska, including specialized "cat trains" used for seismic exploration in the Arctic.

One of Bill's most meaningful roles was with the Alaska Support Industry Alliance, a 360-member organization dedicated to the responsible development of Alaska's oil, gas and mineral resources. As General Manager, Bill oversaw legislative advocacy in Juneau, membership development and the planning of conferences and meetings.

"One time in Juneau, the Alliance made baloney sandwiches for all the legislators," recalled Mathis. "That's because a bunch of baloney was what was coming out of the Capitol."

"Bill was politically savvy," said longtime friend Paul Craig, "but he never lowered his ethics to get his way."

Craig met Bill while developing Trading Bay Energy.

"We were trying to do the impossible—build an independent oil and gas company in Alaska," Craig said. "Bill offered to work on the project for a year in exchange for sweat equity."

Although Trading Bay was ultimately sold, the friendship endured.

"We've been very close friends for more than 30 years," Craig said. "We went to Lucky Wishbone every Friday for lunch."

Following his work in the energy sector, Bill devoted himself to community-focused projects in the Anchorage area. He was instrumental in developing the Anchorage Market and Festival - Saturday Market - growing it from 100 booths to more than 320. He also directed the three-day Bear Paw Festival in Eagle River and produced the Anchorage Arts & Crafts Emporium, Holiday Food and Gift Show and Christmas Village Show.

In addition, Bill managed the popular Made in Alaska program for 10 years.

Two years ago, Bill received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Alaska Support Industry Alliance, where he was named Director Emeritus. The honor included a special Legislative Citation from the 33rd Alaska State Legislature.

Bill was a member of the Resource Development Council, Society of Petroleum Engineers, Arctic Power, Visit Anchorage and the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce. He also served as a founding board member of Charter College.

"He lived life boldly and fully," said Craig, "and he was never afraid of a new challenge."

"Bill was upfront and honest about his death," said Mathis. "I don't think he had any regrets. I'm blessed that he was part of my life, and I will miss him dearly."

Bill is survived by his wife of 55 years; grandnephew, Michael Ingerson; nieces and a nephew; and several grandnieces and great-grandnieces. He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Ellis Webb; and sisters, Janie Birkholz and Mary Garland.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, at 2 p.m., at Legacy Heritage Chapel, Angelus Cemetery, 440 E. Klatt Road in Anchorage.