David Baggett

Jan 11, 1948 -

Oct 29, 2026

David Paul Baggett, 78, passed away on Oct. 29, 2026, with his family by his side in Wichita Falls, Texas. David was born on Jan. 11, 1948, in Vernon, Texas, to Paul and Margaret (Mortimer) Baggett. He was the eldest of three children, followed by his brother Bruce and sister Toni. They grew up on their humble 80-acre family farm in Rayland, Texas.

He graduated from Lockett High School in 1966 as class vice president, and attended two years at Midwestern State University.

In 1967, David started working at a service station in Wichita Falls; that was the day he met the love of his life, Vicki Lynn Turnbow, and they were later married on June 12, 1970.

In 1973, after a short stint in Denver, they packed up and headed off to Alaska to follow a prospective oil field job opportunity. He started as a roustabout and worked his way up to vice president of Quadco, where he retired at 70. David and Vicki renovated their first house in Anchorage, before building the family home in 1981 that they would raise their family in. Their first son, Justin, was born in 1979, and second son, Cody, in 1984. He enjoyed tinkering Jeeps and had 11 of them over time, a lifetime hobby that gave him great satisfaction and which became a family affair passed on to both his sons.

Their family life was rich with time spent together; summers spent traveling around Alaska and Canada in their motorhome and enjoying days at the company cabin in Kenai. Christmas was usually spent returning to Texas to be with family. He shared his childhood love of Boy Scouts with his two sons. A longtime member of the Petroleum Club, he enjoyed a good scotch, usually Johnnie Walker. His witty sense of humor collected many good friends and even better stories over the years.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Margaret; and brother, Bruce. He leaves behind his wife of 56 years, Vicki; son, Justin (Ruth and granddaughter Adela); son, Cody (Jordan); sister, Toni Butler (Bill); granddog, Chewie, all of Anchorage; and numerous extended family.

Marie Barker

Jun 12, 1937 -

Oct 16, 2026

Marie Ellen Barker (Heman) passed away on Oct. 16, 2026, at the age of 89, at Woodland Hills Senior Community in Hudson, Wis., where she resided the last two years of her life.

Marie was born in Britton, S.D., to Kenneth and Violet Heman. She grew up in Minneapolis, Minn., attending North High School and later the University of Minnesota earning a Bachelor of Science degree. After graduating from college, Marie worked a few years as a jewelry buyer for Donaldson's Department Store, often traveling to New York on buying trips. An opportunity to become a teacher took her to Lansing, Mich., where she taught grade school and attended night classes to attain her master's in teaching from the University of Michigan. After graduating in 1969, Marie and a friend pulled a travel trailer up the Alcan Highway to Anchorage, Alaska. This was quite a feat as neither woman knew how to back up a trailer. For 1500 miles, pull-through camping spots were a must! Arriving in Anchorage, Marie taught at Wonder Park.

One night, a friend suggested Marie join him and a visiting salesman for dinner. Teaching salaries being rather low, Marie quickly agreed to join them for a free dinner. And six months later, handsome Randell Barker became Marie's husband. Marie moved to his home in Lomita, Calif., and helped raise his two young sons: Tim and Scott. There, Marie again attended night classes and earned a Special Education certificate at the University of California. Eventually, Marie convinced Rande and the boys to move to Anchorage, where they bought a lovely hillside home, and Marie resumed teaching. She taught Special Ed at West High and Stellar and was the Special Ed department chair at Romig Jr. High. Marie was a talented, compassionate and effective Special Ed teacher and counselor. After retiring from the Anchorage School District, Marie taught part-time as a teacher at a Providence residential program for abused girls. Her quiet manner and innate talent for sensing others' feelings made her an asset to the program and a trusted friend to the girls.

After 15 years of marriage, Rande died of a brain tumor. It was then that Marie took up cruising and eventually ballroom dancing. Rarely did a Princess Cruise ship leave a dock without Marie on board. She traveled to China, the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, the Panama Canal and sailed through all five Great Lakes. She traveled with trunks of beautiful gowns and jewelry. She enjoyed the formal dinners, the shows, dancing, massages and hairstylists! Traveling with Marie was fun; she made friends wherever she went and was always up for an adventure; she even rafted the Grand Canyon for seven days! But of all the places she traveled, Alaska was home and she loved it. Her La Honda townhome overlooked Fish Creek, and she spent many hours watching the frequent visitors: seagulls, moose, foxes and bears. There was a tree close to her window where seagulls nested. Marie, with her strong binoculars, came to consider herself an authority on seagull sex.

But most of all, Marie loved to dance. She began taking ballroom dance classes in her 50s. She was remarkably graceful and poised, and she possessed a natural rhythm. Her already large circle of friends increased even further when she joined the dance community. She attended many out-of-state dance camps. Once at a dance camp in San Diego, Calif., where many Asian students were in attendance, Marie, blond, big-boned and nearly six feet tall, initially felt self-conscious. Her companion remarked, "Marie, you could be the tallest, blondest lady they've ever seen. Let's ask if they want a picture with you." They did, and Marie graciously held her arms out above their heads for a group picture. All of them - Marie included - giggling as the picture was taken. Many friends' children also appreciated Marie's willingness to be the World's Tallest Easter Bunny, a convincing Santa Clause and Glinda the Good Witch, where she amazed, and possibly frightened, small children at a Wizard of Oz singalong!

Marie continued her love of dance even when confined to a wheelchair. At Woodland Hills, where she last lived, Marie organized a New Year's Eve dance. She started by appealing to the staff. "These old people want to dance!" she'd say to the activities director. And she kept saying it sweetly to her week, after week, after week. New Year's Eve arrived at Woodland Hills and so did a disc jockey, a glittering light ball and refreshments. Marie's brother, Neil, swung Marie around the dance floor in her wheelchair in time to the music, and Marie coaxed many formerly reluctant dancers onto the floor. It was a joyful evening. At the end of the dance, Marie was presented with a plaque thanking her for bringing New Year's cheer to Woodland Hills.

In 2018, Marie moved to Stillwater, Minn., to be close to family. There, she enjoyed Friday night dinners and card games with brother Neil's family especially enjoying her nieces and nephew.

Marie is survived by her brother, Neil (Kathy) Hemen; sister, Cynthia Christie; nieces, Katie (Brian) Haupt, Elizabeth (Ron) Newman and Jennifer (Chris) Van Tassel; nephew, Brian (Kailee) Christie; many great-nieces; a great-nephew; and stepsons, Scott and Tim Barker. She was preceded in death by spouse, Randell; parents; and nephew, David Christe.

A celebration of life was held on Nov. 7, 2026, at Woodland Hills Senior Community.

Marie's ever-present positive attitude and smile will be greatly missed.

Christopher Kenny Boskofsky Jr.

Oct 26, 1984 -

Oct 31, 2026

Christopher Kenny Boskofsky Jr. passed away at home in Anchorage, Alaska, on Oct. 31, 2026, just five days after celebrating his 42nd birthday.

Christopher was born to Christopher Sr. and Sharon Boskofsky. He grew up in Ouzinkie, Alaska, where he met his first love - basketball. Chris attended Mt. Edgecumbe High School in Sitka, Alaska, and graduated in 2003. He played on the basketball team, giving him the opportunity to show off his exceptional skills.

Throughout his working years, Chris worked in construction, oil spill response and most recently dedicated his time to caring for his dad. He worked hard at whatever he did, and his most important job was caring for his parents.

If there was one thing everyone could agree on about Chris, it was that he was the life of the party. He was a friend to everybody, and he had a way of making people feel welcome. He always greeted you with a smile, had a great sense of humor and could make just about anyone laugh. He had a way of bringing people together and making ordinary moments memorable.

Chris loved his family above all else and was especially proud of being an uncle. His nieces and nephews held a special place in his heart, and he cherished the memories he made with them. He also had a lifelong love of basketball, whether he was playing on the court, watching a game or playing on his PlayStation, it was one of his greatest passions in life.

Those who knew Chris will remember his humor, his big personality, his infectious smile and, of course, his favorite saying: "Don't you ever die!" It is a phrase that will surely bring a smile to the faces of those who remember hearing him say it.

Chris was preceded in death by his parents, Chris Sr. and Sharon. His family finds comfort in knowing he has been reunited with them.

He is survived by his siblings, Jamie and husband Kenny, and Crystal and husband Luis Sr.; beloved nieces and nephews, Ashley, Hayley, Kelley, Luis Jr. and Isabel; great-nephew, Luis III; girlfriend, Hillary; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends who will miss him dearly.

Chris lived his life bringing laughter, friendship and joy to the people around him. Though his time here was far too short, he will live forever in the memories of those who knew and loved him. In true Chris fashion, we'll hold on to his words: "Don't you ever die!"

A funeral service was held on Nov. 9, 2026, at St. Innocent Orthodox Cathedral. Interment followed at Angelus Memorial Park Cemetery.

May his memory be forever eternal.

Garris Robert Covington

Oct 15, 1936 -

Oct 11, 2026

Longtime Palmer, Alaska, resident Garris Robert Covington, known to most as Bob, died on Oct. 11, 2026, at Mat-Su Regional Hospital surrounded by family. He is survived by loving wife Carolyn, seven children, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Bob lived a life devoted to his family, working multiple jobs for decades to provide. A celebration of life was held with family and closest friends in his home on his 90th birthday.

Bob was born on Oct. 15, 1936, in Florence, Colo., to Joseph and Nellie Ranson Covington. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy immediately following graduation from Montrose High School. Among his honors of service, he was especially proud of his position as driver to Admiral Felix Stump, commander of the US Pacific Fleet, while stationed at Pearl Harbor Naval Base.

Upon returning from the Navy, Bob enrolled at Western State College in Gunnison, Colo., where he met the woman who would become his wife. He received a B.S. in mathematics and education and immediately continued to earn a M.S. in school administration. In 1969, upon receiving a letter from Carolyn, Bob raced up the Alaska Highway from Colorado, completing the trip in only four days to see how he could help her.

Soon after arriving in Alaska, Bob began employment as an adjunct professor at Mat-Su College teaching mathematics, a position he held until his retirement in 2000. Soon after, he began work at McLaughlin Youth Center, where he worked until the Mat-Su Borough School District hired him to initiate the Correspondence Study Program, now called Mat-Su Central School. Bob often quipped, "When I didn't have two jobs, I had three." To attempt to include them all here, would be a fool's errand.

In addition to a productive and successful career, Bob was most proud of and will be most remembered as a loving husband, father, friend, grandfather and great-grandfather. Below is a poem that directly speaks to his role as patriarch written by granddaughter Camryn Smart and read at his celebration of life.

"A Morning with Grandpa"

Grandpa makes blueberry bagels

He smears them with strawberry cream cheese

And cuts them into quarters

Grandpa peels a banana

And cuts it in half

To split between us

Grandma brews coffee that's too strong for most

And grandpa sips on it happily

While we drink our tepid hot chocolate

Grandpa turns on PBS

And Arthur argues with DW

While the sun streams through the window

Between the birch and pines

Grandpa teaches us times tables

While the birds sing

on the old wooden porch

Grandpa mows the lawn

And watches us carefully

As we pick four leaf clovers

Grandpa cleans the garage

And watches us carefully

While we play hopscotch

And four square

And basketball

in a hoop that's small enough

For us to feel strong

Grandpa stands at the window

With hands signing

"I love you"

The window stands empty now

A portrait missing its subject

While the birds still sing

On that old wooden porch

Muriel Frances Furman

Jan 24, 1943 -

Nov 2, 2026

Muriel Frances Furman, nee Bledsoe, passed away peacefully on Nov. 2, 2026, at Providence Medical Center, surrounded by her three children.

Muriel was born on Jan. 24, 1943, in San Antonio, Texas, to Alfred Bledsoe and Alta Andrews. In the 1940s, her family relocated to Alaska when her father was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base. As the daughter of a military serviceman, Muriel spent her early years living throughout the U.S. and overseas before her family eventually settled in Vancouver, Wash. It was in the Portland-Vancouver area that she would raise her own family, welcoming her three children: Melanie, Dawn and Martin.

Muriel dedicated much of her professional life to caring for others as a registered nurse. She served patients in Portland, Ore., and Anchorage, Alaska, including Providence Medical Center and the Veterans Administration. She retired from nursing in the late 1990s, leaving behind a career grounded in service and compassion. Above all, Muriel's greatest passion was her family. She cherished her children and grandchildren and took great joy in the time they shared together. Her interests reflected a love of life and a curiosity about the world: serving her church communities at Central Lutheran and St. Mary's Episcopal Church, supporting the musical arts, gardening, traveling and reading with her beloved cats nearby. She was also a proud member of the Purple Ladies book club for more than 40 years, a testament to the enduring friendships and shared interests that were such an important part of her life.

Muriel was preceded in death by her parents, Alfred Bledsoe and Alta Andrews. She is survived by her husband, Eugene Furman; sister, Sherrill Keller; daughters, Melanie Clark and Dawn Lindsay; son, Martin Wohlgemuth; grandsons, Cameron and Griffin Lindsay; and granddaughter, Chloe Wohlgemuth.

Muriel's family will remember her for her devotion to those she loved, her years of service to others and the many interests and friendships that made her life uniquely her own.

A private family ceremony will be held to honor Muriel's memory.

Joan Victoria Gainer

Mar 12, 1936 -

Nov 8, 2026

Joan Gainer, born on March 12, 1936, in Putnam, Conn., passed peacefully on Nov. 8, 2026, in Wasilla, Alaska, at the age of 90. Educated at Putnam Catholic Academy, Joan lived her faith through daily acts of service and devotion. In her final two years, she grew ever closer to God, a deepening spiritual journey that sustained her through life's seasons.

For years, Joan worked as an IBEW Telephone Operator. She regularly opened her home to serve meals to single military members and travelers stranded at airports, extending Christ's hospitality to strangers. She cared for feral cats and had many dogs, finding in the care of animals a reflection of God's creation. Joan was a pianist and found joy in dancing polka with her husband, Richard "Dick" Gainer, their partnership a living expression of the commitment and love.

Joan is survived by her husband Richard; five children, Denise, Leeanne, Cathy, Chris and Mike; 14 grandchildren; 33 great-grandchildren; and eight great-great-grandchildren. Joan loved and accepted a daughter-in-law, Roberta Gainer, and two sons-in-law, Dave Johnson and Bill Boulay. Several times in her life she became the primary nurturer for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, a role she was quite good at.

She was a champion advocate for Mike's education, supporting him through his dyslexia and serving as taxi driver for him and his friends at sporting events. Denise, her eldest, was proud to be a product of Dick and Joan's honeymoon. A beginning that set the tone for a life rich in family blessing. Through her children and their children's children, Joan's legacy of faith, generosity and steadfast love continues.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Joan's life will be held on Thursday, Nov. 19, 2026, at 4 p.m., at St. Benedict's Catholic Church. As Christ promised, "I am with you always" (Matthew 28:20)—words that sustained Joan and remain her comfort to those she leaves behind.

Susan Harper

Aug 11, 1956 -

Oct 10, 2026

Susan Margaret Harper passed away on Oct. 10, 2026, after a brief but incredibly courageous battle with cancer. Susan was born to Pat and James Lichau on Aug. 11, 1956 in Santa Rosa, California. After graduating from Mapleton High School in 1974, her yearning for adventure first led her to the shores of Hawaii before ultimately being drawn to the infinite mountains and abundant oceans of Alaska.

She truly found her home in Ketchikan, Alaska - a land that nourished her adventurous soul and filled her with an awe and excitement that propagated throughout the remainder of her life. It was there that she met a coast guard serviceman by the name of Stephen Harper that would, unbeknownst to her, become the love of her life.

Susan and Stephen married on Dec. 20, 1975, which is perhaps an important clue as to why Susan so avidly and enthusiastically celebrated the holiday season. Nearly 2 years to the day later, they welcomed their first child, Nicole Michelle, who would from then on be Susan's best friend for the rest of her years. After returning to Oregon for a short time in the early '80s, Susan gave birth to her first son, Taylor Justin, whose curiosity and energy often tested the limits of maternal patience, but she constantly encouraged his exploration of the world all the same. Not long after, her soul was called back to Alaska, where she was meant to be, and gave birth to her second son, Travis Dustin. The kindness in his heart was surely Susan's gift to him at birth, modeled exactly after her own. Travis's penchant for catching frogs began a lifelong fondness of the amphibians for Susan.

She raised her children in what she called "god's country." Where the people were kind, the air was pure and adventure was at your doorstep. She never missed a baseball game, concert or awards assembly and would drop everything to be there for her kids, 100% of the time. She never met someone she couldn't strike up a conversation with and was fiercely loyal and protective of her family.

Though she spent most of her career working in healthcare administration, she was most at home as a deckhand fishing for Alaska's bounty, as she did for many summers. When she wasn't on a boat, she and Steve were off exploring the far reaches of the Last Frontier in their "goofy" trailer. She would openly admit that those days camping with Steve and their friends were the best days of her life.

The only thing that rivaled her love of exploration was the flower gardens that were ubiquitous at every home she ever lived. It was her conduit to the earth that she felt so intrinsically connected to, and it was evident in the vibrancy of her flower beds. It was the perfect reflection of her soul - beautiful and wonderful.

She was preceded in death by Stephen Harper; and is survived by her loving children, Nicole, Taylor and Travis; and six grandchildren, Kasey, Marilyn, Mayan, Evelyn, Paige and Hadley.

Her ashes will be laid to rest next to the love of her life, Stephen, on Nov. 11, at 1 p.m., at Eastside Memorial Park in Minden, Nev.

Barry Johnson

Jul 3, 1939 -

Oct 29, 2026

Barry Johnson, 87, passed away in Anchorage, Alaska, on Oct. 29, 2026. Born to Gwen and Roy Johnson, Barry grew up in Watford, England, where his love of soccer and scouting grew into a lifelong appreciation for sports and adventure. In Watford, he apprenticed and then worked as a journeyman printer. After completing his British Military service as a member of the Military Police, he found printing work at newspapers in South Africa and New Zealand, traveled extensively, and finally landed in Anchorage as a printer with the Anchorage Times in 1969.

In Anchorage, he played soccer, learned to cross-country and downhill ski, and fished near Anchor Point and wherever else fish were biting. He deeply loved to fish, and started his own guiding business, Alaska Fishing Adventures, to take clients - and himself - on raft trips down remote rivers in search of fishing holes.

Barry volunteered for the Nordic Ski Association of Anchorage (NSAA) for many years as the printer and then editor of the Nordic Skier newsletter, as the creator of the NSAA annual photo contest and calendar sale, and as a photographer for Nordic ski events. He also trained for and skied in the Tour of Anchorage year after year and recruited many friends to do the same.

Barry was amiable and outgoing and enjoyed jokes and community events.

Barry is survived by his wife of 48 years, Joyce Weaver Johnson; children, Raven Johnson, Diana Johnson and Sally Hokanson; six grandchildren; and sister, Lorna Biczysko. A memorial service is scheduled for Jan. 10, 2027, from 2-4 p.m., at Lidia Selkregg Russian Jack Chalet, with donations welcomed for the NSAA endowment fund, in lieu of flowers.

Mary Jo Kidd-Thomas

Dec 28, 1945 -

Oct 17, 2026

Mary Jo Kidd-Thomas, 80, passed away peacefully on Oct. 17, 2026.

Mary Jo spent her childhood in Sitka and made Alaska her home. Teaching was her passion, and she made a lasting difference in the lives of everyone she touched. She was a gifted educator who poured her heart and soul into her family and preschool, Kidd's Early Learning Center. She will be remembered with affection by those who knew her. She had the warmest heart.

Mary Jo and her husband, Robert, shared 57 years of marriage. She is survived by Robert; four children, Julie Adriensen (Chris Adriensen), Carolyn Ivy, Christopher Thomas (Tracey Thomas) and David Thomas; five grandchildren, Celecia Ivy, Saivion Ivy, Isaac Thomas, Aislyn Thomas and Isla Thomas; great-grandson, Austin; granddaughter, Amber; and five siblings, Sylvia Kidd, Chas Kidd, Dusty Kidd, William Kidd and David Kidd.

Her legacy lives on in her family and anyone who experienced her kindness. She will be deeply missed, loved and thought of in our hearts forever.

Jason Edward Kumpula

Sep 5, 1975 -

Nov 4, 2026

Jason Edward Kumpula, 51, of Wasilla, Alaska, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and friends on Nov. 4, 2026, at Providence Alaska Medical Center in Anchorage, Alaska. Jason was born on Sept. 5, 1975, to Joel and Ginger (Sanda) Kumpula in Wadena, Minn., and grew up in New York Mills, Minn. He attended and graduated in 1994 from New York Mills High School. He was in band, played football and was a great wrestler. Jason followed his parents to Alaska in 1998. Jason loved everything about Alaska; he was outside every day building something, riding some sort of machine, fishing or hunting. Jason lived in Willow, Fairbanks, and Wasilla during his 28 years in Alaska. Jason worked on the North Slope for most of his life in Alaska, many years for Peak and most recently and proudly for Northern Energy Services. He met Shannon in 2004. They were married in 2013, at a cabin in the White Mountains. Jason's son Edward was the first baby born in Fairbanks in 2014 and his greatest accomplishment. He loved taking Eddie to Trapper Lake, saunas, the Minnesota Vikings and his family and friends. Jason was preceded in death by his grandparents, Martin and Arles Kumpula, Harry and Doris Sanda; nephew, Kody Christenson; uncles, Jon Kumpula, Jerome Sanda; and aunt, Karen Kumpula. Jason is survived by wife, Shannon Kumpula; son, Edward; parents, Joel and Ginger Kumpula; father-in-law, Steve Norton; sister, Jennifer (Derek) Christenson; sister-in-law, Stacy (Randy) Sparks; nephews, Zachary (Des) Christenson, Dylan Christenson; nieces, Grace (Quinn) Mathisen, Elizabeth Sparks; and great-nephew, Brady Christenson. Jason's memories will live on through many more family members and friends and coworkers.

Celebration(s) of life will be planned for early summer 2027 in both Alaska and Minnesota.

Ruth L. Marston

Oct 12, 2026

Twenty years old and fresh out of college, Ruth flew north in 1956, to teach in the Kenai Territorial School. She described her early Alaska experiences in "Once Upon The Kenai" (Kenai Historical Society, 1984). Ruth transferred to the Anchorage School District in 1958 and served 28 years as teacher or librarian at Fairview, Baxter, Muldoon, Creekside, Scenic Park, Northwood, Tundra, and Tudor elementary schools, and for seven years as principal at Oceanview and Birchwood elementary schools.

Ruth traveled Alaska and around the world, relishing different cultures. She shared her experiences with students and friends and filled her home with unusual artifacts. After retiring from the ASD, Ruth moved to Wasilla and continued outreach through Brite learning materials for young children.

Many Alaskans will remember Ruth's beautiful contralto solo voice singing hymns in local churches, and in opera and choral productions with the Anchorage Community - now Concert - Chorus and Anchorage Community Theater. She served in the Ushering in the Arts program and other organizations. Ruth's love of music and the arts complimented her love for travel and cultural enrichment. But Ruth's love for the Lord, and her Christian faith, were the foundation for her life and work.

Born in Pennsylvania in 1935 to George and Pauline Marston, Ruth was a preacher's kid, the eldest of four children. Her parents; sister, Muriel; and brother, Richard pre-deceased her. Ruth is survived by her sister, Priscilla of Arizona and family; and by her brother's children. Ruth is also survived by friend, fellow birdwatcher and former ASD librarian, Flo Kirkpatrick, who was Ruth's traveling companion and housemate for over 60 years.

In 2013, Ruth moved to Warm Beach Community in Stanwood, Wash., then resettled in 2023, to her "snowbird" home in Prescott, Ariz. Ruth's ashes will be intered at the Anchorage Memorial Park Cemetery.

Lena D. Mason

Apr 22, 1931 -

Sep 26, 2026

Lena D. "Lee" Mason, "Meme" as she was affectionately known by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, passed away peacefully in the arms of our Lord at her daughter's home in Meridian, Idaho, on Sept. 26, 2026.

Lena was born on April 22, 1931, in Boston, Mass., to Angelina and Francesco Rizzi. She graduated from Hyde Park High School in Hyde Park, Mass.

During that time, she developed her love for music and became an accomplished piano player that lead her to meeting the love of her life, Robert "Bob" Mason, when she filled in for his band. They were married on July 21,1951.

The family got stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska, in 1969. Mom was the epitome of an Air Force wife and stay-at-home mom. She became a youth bowling coach and joined the local Youth Board of Directors for Anchorage and served as Vice-President and then President for many years. Lena was instrumental in getting bowling to be a varsity letter sport for high schools in the Anchorage area in the 1990s. She was a member of the United States Bowling Congress for over 50 years and was inducted into the Greater Anchorage USBC Hall of Fame for Meritorious Service during the 1991-1992 season. Lena was also a member of St. Anthony's and St. Patrick's Catholic churches.

Lena's greatest love in life was her family. Family first and foremost, Mama Bear came out more times than we can count - her feisty and stubborn spirit making an appearance, especially when it was at the defense and protection of her family.

Lena is survived by sons, Robert "Bob" Mason Jr. (Carol) of New Jersey, and Rick Mason of Anchorage; daughters, Lynne Goard (Chris) of Idaho, and Lori Petty (Brian) of Anchorage; grandchildren, Christina, and Robert Mason III (Tina) of Maine, Diana Weber (Drew) of New Jersey, Margaret "Maggie" Mason (Trevin) of North Carolina, Royce Woodruff (Jenelle) of Idaho, Ryan Dudley (Kacie) of Iowa, Jenna Dudley, Alec Dudley (Haley) and Katelyn Petty, all of Anchorage, Christopher Goard (Rebecca) of Chugiak and Oliver Goard of Wasilla; great-grandchildren, Anthony, Neveah, Carleigh, Leenah, Miranda, Otto, Oscar, Heidi, AJ, Kennady, Claire, Mason, RaeAnne, Aubree, Matilda, Addisyn and Bristol. Lena was joyously reunited with her husband of 57 years, Robert; son, John; daughter-in-law, Patricia; mom and dad; brothers, Luigi and William; and grandchildren, Arianne and David.

Our family wishes to thank Dr. Stephen Settle of the CyberKnife Center at Providence Alaska Medical Center and Dr. Stephen Schaffer of ACENT and Resound ENT for their talents that allowed us more quality time with mom than anyone thought possible. In addition, the staff of Medical Park, Dr. White, Dr. Buck, Dr. Laufer and Dr. Beck, who took amazing care of mom over the past 45 years. Also, a big thank you to the amazing nurses at Providence Alaska Medical Center for the extraordinary care they took with mom over the past year.

A celebration of life will take place in June 2027. We are so grateful for an amazing 95 years for mom, but somehow, that wasn't enough. Mom, we love you to the moon and back. Goodbye is not forever. Goodbye is not the end. It simply means we will miss you until we meet again.

Thaddeus "Teddy" Raphael Mayac Sr.

Jun 17, 1936 -

Oct 30, 2026

In loving memory of Thaddeus Raphael Mayac Sr.

Born on June 17, 1936, on King Island, Alaska, to Peter and Theresa Mayac, the eldest son of eight children, he was baptized on King Island on June 29, 1936, by father LaFortune, S.J.

Teddy married Agnes on June 30, 1963. Together they had six children: Christina, Matthew (deceased), Annette, Ted Jr., Eloise and Charlene.

As a young child Teddy attended boarding school at Holy Cross then continued his education at Copper Valley School, where he was in the first class to graduate in 1957. He served in the Army Reserves from August 1955 to July 1960, he was then drafted to Germany and discharged on July 31, 1964.

While Teddy and Agnes lived in Nome, Alaska, he traveled to and from Anchorage to attend school, where he trained as an engineer. He was hired by the State of Alaska Department of Transportation in September 1960, and retired in July 1987, as a project manager. During this time he had lived in various parts of Alaska, building roadways and bridges.

For several years Teddy served as a president and board member for King Island Native Corporation. He was a head member of a King Island dance group. He contributed to the creation of The Alaska Heritage Center and various Alaska Native studies.

A renowned ivory carving artist, Teddy loved hunting, fishing, camping and sharing his culture with family.

He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Agnes Mayac; five children; 11 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and sisters, Rosey, Rita and Lucy. Preceded in death by siblings, George, Mary, Aloysius, Joe and Raymond; and son, Matthew.

Service will be held at 2 p.m., on Nov. 17, 2026, at St. Anthony Catholic Parish.

Eric Noble, M.D.

Mar 30, 1956 -

Oct 9, 2026

With heavy hearts we say goodbye to our beloved Eric Noble who passed away on Oct. 9, 2026, in Tupper Lake, N.Y., after being diagnosed with ALS in March 2026. He was born in San Francisco, Calif., on March 30, 1956, the oldest son of Andrew and Marilyn Noble.

Eric and his siblings grew up exploring the hills and coastal waters around San Francisco and Tomales Bay. He had an enduring love for the natural world, nurtured by his parents and strengthened through a lifetime of adventures with family and friends. He carried encyclopedic birding knowledge, often erupting in fits of excitement when a unique bird appeared. His love for family was evident in his devotion to his wife Lois and their children, Alea and Andrew.

While he was ever humble, Eric loved to learn and was brilliant across many subjects. He worked as a pediatrician for 32 years, initially in Bethel, Alaska, and surrounding communities at the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, then in Anchorage at Alaska Native Medical Center. He was endearingly described as the "nutty professor" by his colleagues, who all admired the deep connections he made with his patients and their families. He poured his heart and soul into his work and touched the lives of many individuals throughout his career.

Words will never fully articulate the extraordinary person Eric was. He will be remembered as a kind and gentle soul who never sought attention, gave everyone the benefit of the doubt and always strived to do the right thing.

Eric is survived by his wife, Lois Rockcastle; daughter, Alea Robinson and husband Rayce Carey; son, Andrew Noble; sister, Molly Noble and husband Bob Guilbault; brother, Jim Noble; nephew, Henry Guilbault; niece, Sarah Guilbault; and Alaina Aloysius and their granddaughter, Arleta Werba.

A celebration of life will be held in Alaska on Dec. 19, 2026, at St. Mary's Episcopal Church at 1 p.m., and in California on Jan. 17, 2027, at the Inverness Yacht Club at 1 p.m. We invite all who knew and loved Eric to join us in honoring his memory.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Mid Klamath Watershed Council, mkwc.org; South Sudan Medical Relief, www.southsudanmedicalrelief.org; or The Wild Center, www.wildcenter.org.

Nicholas James Peters

Jun 19, 1992 -

Sep 15, 2026

Nicholas Peters entered into his eternal rest in an airplane crash in western Alaska on Sept. 15, 2026. He and his wife Kristen cherished nine years of marriage and welcomed three beautiful children: Cecil, Rohn and Alaina. He was the son of Richard and Barbara Peters, and brother to Matthew, Brian and Maria Peters, all of whom survive him.

Nick spent his childhood recreating outdoors, hunting and trapping. This swiftly transformed into a career as first a welder and then a skilled pilot and operator of Nick's Air Service serving fellow adventurers and hunters in rural Alaska. He enjoyed and found peace in Alaska's wilderness and was eager to share it with others. Nick was always willing to lend a hand, loved his family tremendously and cherished his friendships.

We love you and may you rest peacefully in the sanctuary of God's embrace.

Kathleen D. Stipe Appolloni

Dec 6, 1945 -

Nov 4, 2026

Kathy was born in Seattle, Wash., and raised in Portales, N.M. She moved to Ketchikan, Alaska, where she served as a police officer. She settled in Anchorage, Alaska, where she raised her family and built a successful career as a real estate agent. Kathy met and married her love, Jack Appolloni, in 1994.

Throughout her life, she had many accomplishments and passions. She belonged to quilting guilds where she enjoyed creating intricate beautifully detailed quilts that she donated to raise money for numerous nonprofit foundations and charitable causes such as, Friends of Pets, Quilts of Valor and Salvation Army. She had a gifted eye for design and a generous heart.

Kathy was a force of nature, strong, brilliant and endlessly witty. She faced life with an unshakable spirit and sharp mind that could solve any problem. Her laugher was infectious and her wisdom unmatched.

She had a special way of making people feel loved and welcome. She made friends wherever she went. To know her, you would experience a personal and meaningful relationship.

She carried herself with poise and class. She had impeccable taste, was well spoken and extremely intelligent. She lived her life full of intent, purpose and meaning. Her words of encouragement, guidance and wisdom will be missed.

Kathy fought off cancer for a year with determination and strength, and never complained. She's a remarkable woman and so strong. Her husband never left her side. He was her greatest supporter and strength. Their love for one another is an inspiration to us all. Their 32 years of marriage, love, happiness and life's joys that they shared together will continue and forever remain.

The beautiful memories she leaves behind will be held close to our hearts.

She is loved and remembered by her husband, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many friends. We will cherish her memory.

Marion Terwilliger

Jan 7, 1934 -

Nov 6, 2026

Marion Patricia "Pat" (Cozzens) Terwilliger, 92, of Anchorage, Alaska, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Nov. 6, 2026. Known as Pat to most and Mom to many, she spent over 70 years serving the Lord in Alaska as a pastor's wife, church musician and piano teacher to hundreds.

Pat was born on Jan. 7, 1934, in Washington, D.C., to Marion and Frances Cozzens. As a young girl at Bible camp, she committed her life to the Lord Jesus Christ. A gifted pianist and vocalist, she enrolled at Bob Jones University at 17.

There she met Wendell Terwilliger, and they married in 1952. Called as missionaries, they sailed to Ketchikan, Alaska, a week later. In 1954, by faith, they moved to Haines, Alaska, where they founded Port Chilkoot Bible Church. Later serving with Gospel Missionary Union (now Avant) in Haines, Fairbanks, and Juneau, Alaska, they moved to Anchorage in 1978. Pat taught piano, directed choir and played at The Chapel by the Sea, and earned her Alaska Bible College degree in 1983.

In 1993, they planted the Indian Valley Bible Chalet, where Pat directed the music until 2023. Even at 90, she accompanied the Thursday Hymn Sing at Maple Springs Assisted Living.

Pat was preceded in death by her husband of 62 years, The Rev. Wendell Terwilliger; her parents; and sister, June. She is survived by her brother, Dr. Robert Cozzens; seven children, Tim (Cindy), Teresa Peterson, Bonnie Fischer, Janette (The Rev. Tim) Davis, Daniel, The Rev. David (Lisa) and Elizabeth (The Rev. Eric) Kretschmer; 16 grandchildren; and 29 great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m., on Nov. 14, 2026, at The Chapel by the Sea; interment at Angelus Memorial Park beside her husband. We rejoice in the hope of seeing her again in our eternal home with the Lord Jesus Christ.

David John Veronick

Jun 17, 1955 -

Nov 1, 2026

David "Dave" Veronick was born on June 17, 1955, to Clifford Veronick and Mary (Mazar) Veronick in Eveleth, Minn. He passed away in Anchorage, Alaska, on Nov. 1, 2026. He grew up in various areas around Minnesota, including Brainerd, St. Paul, and Gilbert. After graduation from high school, he pursued a vocational degree in electronics and also played in a band with both his father and his uncle, James Veronick, playing around Michigan, Des Moines, Iowa and Minnesota. This was one of the highlights of his life that he often talked about. The three Veronick men enjoyed entertaining others and traveling around to do so. Dave played the electric bass guitar, his favorite instrument, and also enjoyed playing many Bach pieces on the piano. Bach was his absolute favorite composer. He was a major Beatles fan, as well as The Doors, The Hollies and other groups from a variety of musical styles. He loved the rhythm and beat of music – it fed something deep in his soul.

Dave worked in one of the mine processing plants for US Steel in northern Minnesota, and then did radio work in the same area. After a subsequent layoff at a new radio job, he eventually decided to move to Alaska. There he lived with his uncle, James, and grandmother, Rose Veronick. Alaska suited Dave very well. He loved hiking, climbing up the Gunsight Mountain with his grandfather, cross-country skiing and bicycling.

Dave's main areas of interest in this world were astronomy, archaeology, technology and music, among many others. At work, he was often referred to as Super Dave or MacGyver for his ability to work at solving a problem until he found a solution. If he didn't understand the problem when he found it, by the end, he was an expert in that subject. He had an innate skill for understanding computers, electronics, just about anything digital or anything he chose to understand for himself. Dave earned a Microsoft certification by studying on his own and then the world of computers and other technologies became his work for the last 40 years of his life. Dave retired in 2020, spending the last six years of his life exploring many of his interests, including following the launch of the James Webb telescope and the many images it began sending back, helping us understand more about the origins of the universe.

At age 55, Dave was diagnosed with systemic scleroderma, a disease that rarely affects men as much as it does women. He lived with this diagnosis for his final 15 years, which impacted many areas of his life. He put his MacGyver skills to the test in devising new ways to see and do things when the scleroderma changed how he used to do them, such as putting pliers to use to help him open tightly sealed, vacuum-packed containers or using different tools to help him pick up things when his fingers no longer worked well. He was always thinking of ways to do something that someone wouldn't usually think of. He was such a talented person at not succumbing easily to scleroderma. He will be missed greatly.

Dave is survived by his wife, Julie; children, Richard and Elizabeth; mother, Mary Veronick; siblings, Mary Kay and Brian; and niece and nephew-in-law, Nikki and Nick Duff. He was predeceased by his father, Cliff; sister, Renee; grandmother, Rose Veronick; grandfather, John Veronick; and uncle, James "Jimo" Veronick.

Dewey David Young

Sep 4, 1948 -

Oct 5, 2026

Dewey D. Young passed away peacefully in his home on Oct. 5, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska. He was born in Ashland, Ore., in 1948, to parents Dewey and Alyce Young and grew up in Rogue River, Ore. He earned a B.A. in education from Southern Oregon College. In 1976, Dewey and Jerri embraced the spirit of adventure and made the life changing decision to move their young family to Alaska. They set out for a new beginning, inspired by the opportunities his in-laws had shared and the promise of a wonderful place to call home. What began as an adventure became a lifetime of memories and experiences in Alaska.

Dewey proudly served in the Navy during the Vietnam War on the USS Bon Homme Richard. Despite a degree in education, Dewey was a natural born salesman and was instead drawn towards business. Dewey had a long career in sales and most notably worked as the General Manager of Frito Lay Alaska for many years. Dewey had a magnetic personality, was always the life of the party and his friends and family lovingly referred to him as the "Big Chip." He loved golfing, hunting and traveling. But above all, his greatest joy was his family. He could most often be found on the sidelines, cheering on his children and grandchildren at their sporting events. He took great pride in being involved in their lives.

Dewey will be remembered by those who knew and loved him. His memory will live on through his family and all the lives he touched.

A Celebration of Life will be held in spring 2027 in Anchorage, with details to be announced at a later date.