Marvin G. Arend

Jan 24, 1938 -

Jan 6, 2026

Longtime Alaskan Marvin G. Arend passed away Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026.

Born on Jan. 24, 1938, in Denver, Colo., he was the son of Eric and Estelle Arend. He was the first born of three children, followed by brother David and sister Gwen; both preceded him in death.

After working on a ranch for three years, Marv entered Navy boot camp on his 17th birthday. During his four-year tenure of exceptional advancement, he married his wife of 68 years, Gail Elaine Matthews of Pueblo, Colo. He was the father of six, grandfather of 12, and great-grandfather of three.

Marv lived a very full and active life. After the Navy, Marv went to work for Mountain Bell in Colorado for seven years, then moved to Alaska in 1966. In 1959, Mav and Gail had their first child, son Michael G. Arend, followed every couple of years by James E Arend, Kristi E Arend, Gregory M Arend, Vicki M. Arend (Folkerts) and Cindy K Arend (Callaham).

Alaska was heaven for him and his friends, still wild and free. He loved hunting and fishing and running the rivers. Then he started flying. He got his private pilot's license, then his instrument rating as well as his commercial rating, more as a hobby for the latter two. Marv worked for MTA for a year in 1966, then went to work for ATU for 30 years. During that time, he worked in several different trade classifications. He also served as the Shop Steward for seven years. As a business representative, he was many negotiating committees, served on the Pension Trust and on the Executive Board of the IBEW 1547.

A Google search of Marv will find that he was also an inventor. He designed and implemented a city-wide pay station system that led ATU to be the first telephone utility in the entire country to be 100% compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

All who met Marv were inspired by his "get-r-done" attitude. He was a doer; he got things done. Marv always wanted to learn more and understand everything. He was never satisfied with the amount of knowledge he accumulated. He was an avid reader who read about every subject. Marv will be missed by many and remembered by all.

Celebration of Life to be announced at a later date.

Kenneth Peter Haakenson

Aug 13, 1952 -

Mar 12, 2026

Kenneth Peter Haakenson, known to many as "Haak," passed away on March 12, 2026, at the age of 73, with family by his side. He was born in Anchorage, in 1952, to Lionel and Esther (Larson) Haakenson, and raised in Anchor Point, Alaska, where his family homesteaded beginning in 1955. He later lived in Soldotna and Anchorage, Alaska.

Kenny lived a life defined by hard work, skill and resilience. He spent many years as a commercial fisherman and built a career as a telephone lineman, often working in challenging conditions that he handled with confidence and precision. He took pride in doing things right, whether operating heavy equipment, driving trucks or running his boat.

Those who knew Kenny will remember him most for his humor. He had a dry, quick wit and way of saying things that caught people off guard, often leaving them laughing moments later. He loved a good story, a well-timed joke and the simple comforts of life including his homemade blueberry vanilla ice cream and a good bowl of soup.

Kenny was a man of faith and a devoted family man. He especially cherished his role as a grandfather, showing up for his grandchildren's events, celebrating their accomplishments and making each of them feel special.

He is survived by his children, Dennis (Cindy) Haakenson, Matthew (Melissa) Haakenson, Emily (Wesley) Remmer and Julia Haakenson; grandchildren, Chloe Loop, Angelica (Brennen) Slats, Gavin Haakenson, Nathan Haakenson, Elliot Haakenson, Samantha Haakenson and Lucille Remmer; siblings, Tim (Melody) Haakenson, John (Celeste) Haakenson, Mary (Charlie) Perry and Ronnie (Lisa) Haakenson; and many nieces, nephews and other family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lionel and Esther Haakenson; and brothers, Jim Haakenson and Robert Haakenson.

Kenny leaves behind a family and friends who will remember him not just for what he did, but for how he made people feel: laughing, thinking and always with a story to tell.

Norma Hannan

Apr 24, 1937 -

Jan 3, 2026

Norma Hannan lived a life, curious, adventurous and unmistakably her own. She passed peacefully on Jan. 3, 2026.

Born in Colorado, Norma moved to Alaska when her father joined the Alaska Railroad. She graduated from Anchorage High School and went on to study for three years at the American University of Beirut. Norma earned a degree in education and spent 40-years teaching at Eagle River Elementary School.

Norma married Leo Hannan in 2000. Together they shared laughter, travel and a home alive with warmth until Leo's passing in 2015. In later years, she chose awe over fear, flying with her newfound companion, Herb. Norma was a lifelong adventurer, traveling to places such as Egypt, South Africa and Australia. She was an accomplished skier, scuba diver and photographer. Wherever she went, Norma had a rare ease. She listened with real interest, asked thoughtful questions and made people feel accepted rather than evaluated. Her authenticity gave others permission to relax into their own.

Norma is survived by her children, Marc, Robin, Joe and Kim; grandchildren, Cade, Colt, Callie and Tyler; and great-grandchildren, Mercy and Oliver; Leo's daughters, Sarah and Ellen; and his granddaughters, Amy and Mellisa.

Norma's love lives on through her family, her students, her friends and the animals and strangers she quietly lifted along the way.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 1 p.m., on April 11, 2026, at the Alaska Center for Spiritual Living, 929 E. 81st Street, Anchorage, AK 99518.

Jennifer Hunt

Jul 15, 1965 -

Mar 21, 2026

Jennifer Landreth Hunt, age 60, passed away on March 21, 2026. She was born on July 15, 1965, in San Antonio, Texas, to Lawrence and Elizabeth Hunt. She grew up in Hudson, Ohio, where she developed a lifelong curiosity and compassion that would guide her life. Dedicated to a pursuit of learning, she acquired higher education from several institutions. At the time of her death Jennifer was a board certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, APRN, specializing in neurology and pulmonary medicine.

Once having earned an RN degree, Jennifer completed the NIH Neuroscience Nurse Internship Program and the Veterans Administration residency. During her career of 12 years at NIH, Jennifer was awarded the NIH Director Safety, along with a poster presentation for an evidence-based project design in opioid risk mitigation for the Veterans Administration, and Clinical Research Nurse/Protocol Manager for neuroendocrine research. Jennifer's vast knowledge and experience at Bethesda, Md., for cancer and stem cell research was another successful experience.

In 2015, Jennifer Hunt, APRN, made a courageous and adventurous decision to leave her position at NIH in Washington, D.C., and move to Anchorage, Alaska, to work with Denali Healthcare Specialists to serve the needs of Alaskans. Recently she was a case manager of the Arctic North Slope Native Association.

She embraced this new chapter of life—the state's natural beauty and its meaningful community. She found a spiritual home at Anchorage Independent Baptist Church, where her faith deepened with her circle of friends. She enjoyed singing in her church choir, creative quilting and knitting sweaters—dimensions of the care and warmth she naturally gave to others. In her free time, Jennifer served her community by helping with local events such as the 2024 Arctic Winter Games as an EMT-3 on duty at the rink for international teams.

Jennifer will be remembered for her intelligence and adventurous spirit. With her steady and quiet ways, she made the lives of others better. Her legacy lives on in the many patients she cared for, the community that she chose and the love she shared.

She is survived by her loving parents, Lawrence and Elizabeth Hunt of Sandy Springs, Ga.; Carolyn Hunt Scoular of Sandy Springs; sisters, Emily (Paul) Zeigler of Roswell, Ga., and Allison Skidgel of Hayward, Calif.; as well as five nieces, Rachel (Colin) Treend, Anna Zeigler, Sadie Zeigler, Beatriz Skidgel and Ava Skidgel.

Mary Jean "MJ" Longley

Dec 3, 1943 -

Mar 3, 2026

Dr. Mary Jean "MJ" Longley, Inupiaq elder, educator and advocate for learning in indigenous communities in Alaska and across the country, passed away on March 3, 2026, in Arizona.

Mary Jean was born in Nome, Alaska, at the end of WWII. From the start of life, her love for learning was so intense, she could be found sitting on the steps of the schoolhouse waiting for it to open.

Growing up as one of eight siblings, Mary Jean loved her family. Her brothers Henry, Gary, Nicholas and Theodore, and her sisters Joan, Fran and Patricia were her foundation. After graduation, she moved to Oregon for the first of many times.

After raising a family, MJ pursued higher education with a voracious determination, earning an undergraduate degree, a master's degree, then a doctorate in education — all in record time. This allowed her to follow her heart to help her people in a variety of leadership positions across Alaska.

She had a lifelong love of fishing and an uncanny skill at catching the biggest ones. She loved exercising her mind and body and was always reading or working out.

Mary Jean's courage inspired generations of strong women and men within her family and community to pursue their dreams.

She grieved the loss of her beloved mother, Frances Longley, as well as siblings Joan, Gary, Henry and Fran, who predeceased her.

She is survived by three children, nine grandchildren, two great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Dr. Mary Jean "MJ" Longley will be remembered as an extraordinary woman whose life was defined by her passion for helping underserved communities, for her family and for The People.

She is likely fishing somewhere in the afterlife, smiling and surrounded by her ancestors.

She will not be forgotten.

Norman Richard "Rick" Meyer

Feb 11, 1947 -

Mar 8, 2026

In Loving Memory of Norman Richard "Rick" Meyer

Anchorage and former North Pole and Fairbanks, Alaska, resident Norman "Rick" Meyer died of pancreatic cancer on March 8, 2026. A private service will be held for family in Wasilla, Alaska, with a graveside service at Fort Richardson National Cemetery later in 2026.

Rick was born on Feb. 11, 1947, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Norman and Eileen Meyer and raised in Beaver, Pa., where he graduated from Beaver High School in 1965. He also earned his Eagle Scout Award, the highest rank in the Boy Scouts of America program. In 1969, he graduated from Colorado State University with a bachelor's degree.

Rick served on active duty with the Air Force from 1969, coming to Alaska in 1975, until 1978 when joined the Alaska Air National Guard. He continued to serve until his retirement in 2000, attaining the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He was the first Security Police Master Sergeant in the history of the Alaska Air National Guard.

Rick worked for the Alaska Department of Labor for over 20 years as an Employment Specialist and helped many Alaska veterans all over the state find employment. He also felt privileged to be an Alaskan and live in the beauty that is Alaska.

Rick was active with the Boys Scouts, the Fairbanks and North Pole Chambers of Commerce, Youth Litter patrols and served as a board member with Alaskans for Litter Prevention and Recycling. He also served on the Tony Knowles Alaska State Veterans Advisory Board and was the Alaska Department of Labor's representative on a national level for state agencies for eight years and helped to found the Interior Veterans Advisory Committee in Fairbanks. He was a member of the American Legion, VFW, DAV and the Air Force Association, as well as a volunteer at the Museum of Transportation and Industry in Wasilla.

Rick is survived by his wife, Orlanda, of 56 years; three children, Christopher Meyer (Sunanta), Richard Meyer (Shelly) and Amy Martin (Nathaniel); four grandchildren, Henry Meyer, Maya Meyer, Ryan Martin and Jessica Martin; and four siblings, Patricia Merz, John Meyer, Pamela May and Daniel Meyer.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Eileen Meyer; father, Norman Lee Meyer of Pennsylvania; and grandson, Riley Martin, of Palmer, Alaska.

John Peter Mitchell

Jan 13, 1944 -

Mar 19, 2026

John Peter Mitchell, 82, of Anchorage, Alaska, formerly of East Haven, Conn., passed away on March 19, 2026, surrounded by his family.

John, or Peter as he was known by his family, grew up in East Haven and joined the Air Force a year after graduating from high school although he didn't know what he wanted to do when he grew up. He spent the next 27 years traveling the world until he retired from the service in 1990 and was able to move back to Alaska. He then spent another 18 years working for the State of Alaska in Department of Transportation before fully retiring in 2010.

He loved model railroads, any time spent at his cabin in Cooper Landing and taking care of his dogs. He spent most of his retirement volunteering at St. Benedict's Catholic Church and Lumen Christi Catholic High School. John was known for being a jack-of-all-trades, as he was able to fix most anything, the love and care he gave to his family, and for his sense of humor.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia; daughter, Alicia; son-in-law, Floyd; grandchildren, Stephen and Vance; sister, Suzanne; and many other relatives.

A funeral service will be held on March 31, 2026, at 3 p.m., at St. Benedict's Catholic Church in Anchorage, followed by full military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lumen Christi Catholic High School.

Katy Nalley

Apr 13, 1931 -

Feb 8, 2026

Heaven opened its gates to beloved Katy Nalley, age 94, in Anchorage, Alaska, on Feb. 8, 2026. Katy was endearingly called by some "little tyke," a personality punctuated with a fantastic sense of humor and quick wit. She was a beautiful lady of great refinement - well known for her gourmet dinner parties, immaculate table settings and excellent taste in everything from wine to art.

Katy was born in South Carolina on April 13, 1931. On Dec. 4, 1949, she married Doug Blankenship and went on to have three beautiful children: David, Julie and Wayne. During this time, Katy traveled the world and even spent a year in the "Little White House" in Tulsa.

In 1964, Katy married Max Nalley, which led her on an Alaska adventure during Max's career with Exxon. She fell in love with the beauty and close community of Alaska and decided to stay forever after Max passed away in 1988.

Over the years, Katy volunteered for numerous organizations, including serving as President of the Petroleum Wives Club and Board of Directors for the Performing Arts Center. Katy was most honored to serve as the Vice Chancellor of the Chaine DeRotissuers - a worldwide, exclusive gourmet club.

Katy married Roy Howard in 2002, which marked her final chapter in Alaska with many years of loving companionship, travel, music and memories made with friends and family.

Katy is survived by Roy Howard; children, Julie and Wayne; grandchildren, Kyle, Kari, Randi, Casey, Jeff and Amanda; and nine great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by Doug Blankenship, David Blankenship and Max Nalley.

Katy leaves a legacy of impact for all those who experienced her acts of service, her joy of cooking, her penchant for adventures on skis, traveling and exploration— but most of all, her love and good humor.

A celebration of life will be at the Petroleum Club of Anchorage on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.

There, we can share stories and a toast together in honor of Katy, "To lost friends and absent companions."

Stephen Boshell Potter

Apr 4, 1959 -

Mar 18, 2026

Stephen Boshell Potter, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished son, dedicated uncle and brother, passed away on March 18, 2026, at the age of 66.

Born in 1959 to William and Betsey (Boshell) Potter in Ann Arbor, Mich., Stephen grew up in a close-knit family that valued faith, love and togetherness. He carried these virtues throughout his life, becoming a pillar of kindness and compassion for those around him. As he grew, his faith in God grew, and in difficult times he relied on Philippians 4:7, "the peace that surpasses all understanding."

Stephen was the beloved husband of Sami T. Ali, M.D., with whom he shared a deep, supportive and joyful partnership. Their marriage was a source of profound love and mutual encouragement. He was the proud and adoring father of Emma Potter, who brought immense light and purpose to his world; he cherished every moment of watching her grow and thrive.

Stephen's legacy is one of unwavering family devotion, gentle strength and a life lived with heart and kindness. He was a Master of Social Work who trained in Miami, Fla., where he dedicated himself to helping AIDS mothers and their newborns in the early 1980s AIDS epidemic. He later moved to Anchorage, Alaska, where he worked as a licensed clinical social worker at Providence Alaska Medical Center for 35 years, touching the lives of over 35,000 people through his compassionate care. While at Providence Hospital he served as Assistant Manager in Case Management for nine years, was pivotal in creating a Psychiatric Emergency Department, and mentored many new clinicians, easing the way for patients and staff alike.

His friends and family will remember his quick wit, charming smile and love of laughter. Although proud of his social work degrees, he was equally as proud of being a member of Costco since 2004. At work in the stressful emergency room, he was known for wearing whimsical Hawaiian shirts, bringing an extra touch of joy to those around him.

He is preceded in death by his father, William Sommerville Potter.

He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love he gave so generously.

Please join us to celebrate his life at the Angelus Memorial Park, 440 East Klatt Road in Anchorage, on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 2 p.m. As a tribute to Steve, please wear your favorite Hawaiian shirt.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in honor of Steve to the Leukemia Research Foundation, the Blood Bank of Alaska or Bloodworks Northwest. For those who wish to contribute in another way, please consider registering as a bone marrow donor or donating blood products to your local blood bank and give the gift of life.

Your love endures in peace, dear Stephen—beloved husband, brother, father, son, uncle and friend.

Thomas Earl Robinson

Feb 7, 1949 -

Mar 13, 2026

Thomas Earl Robinson, age 77, passed away on March 13, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska, surrounded by his wife and daughters.

Thomas was born in Bryan, Texas, to Jacob and Vanee Robinson. He arrived in Anchorage in 1949, with his family, after driving the Alcan Highway.

A longtime member the Greater Friendship Baptist Church, Thomas was an avid fisherman. He enjoyed camping, hiking and spending time at his cabin. He loved to play pool, all types of music and singing and especially treasured the time he spent with his grandsons.

Thomas will be remembered by his wife, Julie; daughters, Chelsea and husband Jon, Breanna and husband Russell, and Margaret; grandsons, Dylan, Nolan, Tiernan and Dominik; siblings, Curtis (D'Etta), Melvin (Audrey), Verna (Tyrone) and Anthony Polk (Rose); sister-in-law, Carlotta; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his brother, Will and George; his parents; and great friend, Chet Courville.

A visitation will be held on Friday, March 27, 2026, from 1-2 p.m., at Greater Friendship Baptist Church, 903 East 13th Avenue in Anchorage, followed by a service. Michael Bunton will preside. A Repass will follow the funeral from 3:15-5:30 p.m., in the Ann Stevens Room/Galleria at the Z.J. Loussac Library.

Thorald "Terry" William Schleppegrell

Apr 30, 1953 -

Jan 14, 2026

Thorald William Schleppegrell, "Terry," passed away peacefully in his sleep on Jan. 14, 2026.

Terry was born on April 30, 1953, in Princeton, Minn., to Beverly Joanne (Carlson) Schleppegrell and John Daniel Schleppegrell. He attended Lathrop High School, graduating from Forest Lake High School in Minnesota, class of 1971.

As a young man, Terry served as a medic in the United States Navy. He was honorably discharged on Oct. 25, 1973, at the age of 20, and received the National Defense Service Medal for his service.

Terry worked his entire career in the grocery business, where he was known for his knowledge of store operations and his willingness to help wherever needed. Over the years, he worked at Carrs/Safeway in Anchorage, Alaska, and later at VONS/Safeway in Boulder City, Nev.

Outside of work, Terry earned a Life Master Certificate from the American Contract Bridge League in 1978.

Terry was also a devoted sports fan who closely followed basketball and football. He enjoyed the strategy of the games and the thrill of placing well-considered bets, always appreciating the numbers and probabilities behind the action.

Terry was preceded in death by his brother, Ronald Schleppegrell (2025); father, John Schleppegrell (2019); mother, Beverly Staskanis (2012); and stepfather, Frank Staskanis (1999).

Terry is survived by his son, Jackson Schleppegrell, born on April 12, 1989, in Anchorage, living in South Korea; sisters, Linda Schleppegrell of Fairbanks, Alaska, Karen Schleppegrell Pellouchoud (Dan) of Boulder City, and Tammy Schleppegrell of Las Vegas, Nev.; nephew, Dane and Noelle Beebe (Henderson); nieces, Paige Pellouchoud of Tempe, Ariz., Megan Pellouchoud of South Korea, Amy Pellouchoud of Toluca Lake, Calif.; and great-niece, Hannah Beebe, carrying the family traditions two more generations into the future.

Terry's Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday May 1, 2026, in the Chapel at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City. Friends and family are gathering after the service at Dan and Karen Pellouchoud's house, 385 Cats Eye Drive in Boulder City.

Melvin Schroder Jr.

Nov 19, 1944 -

Mar 15, 2026

Longtime Anchorage, Alaska, resident Melvin "Mike" Schroder Jr. passed away on March 15, 2026.

As a child in 1950, Mike moved with his family from Oregon to Anchorage, where they lived in a tent for two years while his dad built the family home. Mike attended school in Anchorage, graduating from West Anchorage High School in 1963, where he played on the hockey team and played in the band.

After graduating, Mike worked for two years for the National Bureau of Standards on Elmendorf Air Force Base before going to work for Pacific Northern Airlines in 1966. He continued to work in cargo for the airline through it's transition to Western Airlines and then to Delta Airlines, from which he later retired.

Mike's hobbies included playing darts and his guitars. In his retirement, Mike enjoyed fishing in Alaska, gardening, traveling and restoring his vintage Corvette.

Mike is survived by his wife of 61 year, Lauralee Schroder; daughter, Connie Downs; and granddaughters, Melissa Self and husband Billy and Kaila Downs, all of Spring, Texas. He is also survived by his sisters, Terry Sloan and husband Rory of Salem, Ore., and Debra Roper and husband Ron of Wasilla, Alaska; numerous in-laws; and nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m., on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at Anchorage Funeral Home, 1800 Dare Avenue in Anchorage.

Leslie Smith

Nov 14, 1974 -

Mar 7, 2026

Longtime Anchorage, Alaska, resident Leslie K. Smith, 51, passed away on March 7, 2026, surrounded by her children, family and devoted caregivers in Eagle River, Alaska. She fought a courageous nine-year battle with ALS, always saying that her love for her children kept her going.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 1, 2026, at Legacy Heritage Chapel at Angelus, 440 E. Klatt Road in Anchorage, at 2 p.m.

Leslie was born on Nov. 14, 1974, in Traverse City, Mich., to Richard and Shirley Smith. She grew up in Eagle River and Anchorage, graduated from Dimond High School in 1993, and attended UAA. She began her career with Alaska Airlines in 1996, later moving into logistics and CSR work in the Alaska oil and gas industry. She was employed with Furie Alaska at the time of her ALS diagnosis in 2017. A devoted mother, Leslie loved traveling—especially to Hawaii and Rome—hosting gatherings, camping and planning adventures with her family and friends. Her vibrant personality lit up every room. Although she lost her ability to speak, her expressive eyes conveyed her love and humor to all those around her.

Her family wrote: "Leslie's love, generosity and kind heart inspired everyone who knew her. She lived life to the fullest and faced ALS with unmatched strength and humor. We are forever grateful to her caregivers and medical team."

Leslie is survived by her five children, Alex (Theresa), Riley, Makena, Katelynn (Jenoi and three grandchildren) and Kyle; parents; sisters and family. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Steve and Sandra Lambert for their extraordinary care over the past two years.

Per her wishes, her children will privately scatter her remains at a later date. Memorial donations may be sent to Lisa Winzenburg, P.O. Box 230842, Anchorage, AK 99523.

Jennifer Sylvester

Jun 7, 1974 -

Mar 6, 2026

Jennifer was taken too soon. What a warrior! Jennifer showed exceptional courage, fierce determination and incredible stamina as she fought esophageal cancer to the end. Doctors and other medical personnel were astounded with Jennifer's ability to overcome major hurdles and setbacks throughout her long painful battle. With regrets Jennifer had to end her teaching career early to devote herself to her battle with cancer.

Jennifer was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, and had a career here as an elementary teacher. Jennifer is survived by her spouse Brent and son Cullen.

Jennifer's parents, Noel and Marie Fujimura, and many extended family members, as well as numerous friends mourn Jennifer's passing.

At Jennifer's request, there will be no formal service. Her ashes will be dispersed privately by family at a later date. View the full obituary at www.alaskacremation.com.

Roger Van Ornum

Nov 5, 1943 -

Mar 5, 2026

Roger Dean Van Ornum, 82, of Eagle River, Alaska, formerly of Duncombe, Iowa, passed away on March 5, 2026. He was born on Nov. 5, 1943, in Duncombe.

Roger spent his early years in Barnum, Fort Dodge and Duncombe before moving to Alaska in 1988. A hardworking farmer, heavy equipment mechanic, truck driver and true jack-of-all-trades, Roger was known for his skill with machinery, his love of the outdoors and his unforgettable sense of humor.

He was a member of Otho United Methodist Church in Iowa and Independent Baptist Church in Anchorage. Roger enjoyed horses, four-wheelers, snowmachines, hunting and building or digging anything he could get his hands on.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara; children, Troy of Houston, Texas, Trent of Chicago, Ill., and Tana (Doug) of Gardner, Kan.; as well as Shirley Fitzpatrick, Linda (Mike) Armistead and Tim (Darlene) Davis; and many grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wounded Warriors or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Anton John Weiss

Feb 20, 1945 -

Mar 24, 2026

Anton John Weiss, age 81, died peacefully in his Anchorage, Alaska, home on March 24, 2026. He was proud to be born and spent his entire 81 years in Anchorage. He was born to John and Clarice Weiss on Feb. 20, 1945, and graduated from Anchorage High School.

He was a longshoreman for 45 years and a member of Anchorage Independent Longshore Union #1, Alaska Teamsters Local 959, The Bartender's Union and The United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 1496.

He loved Alaska, snowmachining and spending time at the family cabin at Big Lake. He was happiest when surrounded by family and friends that he loved. He was known for speaking his mind and telling it like it is. He was tough on the outside, but kind and soft on the inside. He loved his family deeply and was loved right back. He will be dearly missed.

Tony leaves behind his children, Kelli (Steven) Lambe, John ( Devin) Weiss and Casey (Gail) Weiss: grandchildren, Keegan (Lydia) Lambe, Camden Lambe, Caleb (Ashley) Lambe, Jackson Weiss and Berlin Weiss; great-grandchild, Finnegan Lambe; and also Denalee Hurn and Thaddeus Hurn.

There will a Celebration of Life for Tony on March 30, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., at 49th State Brewing Company in Anchorage. His ashes will be spread over Mt. Susitna, Big Lake and Eureka in summer 2026.

Jakob Caesar Whittaker

Jul 2, 1966 -

Mar 11, 2026

Jakob Caesar Whittaker, "Jake," 59, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, while tending to his tomato starts in his new Wasilla, Alaska, home.

Jake spent his early years in Ketchikan before moving to Anchorage, Alaska. He graduated from the King Career Center, worked for B&B Tools for many years, then managed a series of Whittaker Management apartments with his mother. More recently, he enjoyed buying and selling real estate, playing poker, fishing, trying new gardening techniques and expressing his political views to elected officials.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dick Whittaker of Ketchikan; mother, Judy Whittaker of Anchorage; and three dogs all named Groucho.

Survivors include his two beloved dogs, Groucho (the fourth) and Sweetie; siblings, Maxx, Juno with niece Jeorgia, Josh, Jetta with nephew Leo and niece Ruby, and Jed; and good friends, Clint and Theresa Churchil.

At his request, no services will be held; Jake's his ashes will be spread at various fishing holes. To remember him, please speak kindly to a dog and don't forget to vote!

Joan "Jody" Wolff (Mehelich)

Apr 2, 1941 -

Feb 24, 2026

On Feb. 24, 2026, Joan "Jody" Wolff (Mehelich) passed away unexpectedly, at the age of 84, in her home in Sun City West, Ariz., with her loving husband of 48 years, Art, by her side.

Born Joan, but soon nicknamed Jody, she grew up in the mining town of Coleraine where she had much fun with her friends, brothers Tom and Bill, and sister Jeannie. From a musical family, Jody played French horn and was also a baton-twirling majorette.

After high school, Jody worked as a dental hygienist in Minneapolis, Minn., but soon decided to go to Bemidji State to receive a degree in what was to become her calling in life, teaching. Upon graduation, Jody, along with the accordion-toting Gersich sisters, set out for jobs in Alaska, which involved a two-week journey and camping along the rugged Alaska Highway. Jody taught fifth and sixth grades, and later kindergarten, in Anchorage, Alaska, schools.

She was a lifelong, curious learner, which is part of what made her such a good teacher. While working as a teacher, Jody got her master's degree in education from the University of Alaska and achieved the highest accreditation possible in her field. Everything she did, she did very well.

Jody was very adventurous and loved to travel. She and Art traveled worldwide, and even worked for Princess Cruise Lines in their retirement to receive discounted cruises. She also enjoyed crafting, and was a great cook. She was an excellent host to those who showed up on her Alaska doorstep. After retiring, Jody and Art traded the Alaska cold for Arizona sunshine, where they kept busy with friends, family and camping in their RV.

Jody is survived by her husband, Art; brother, Tom (Fran) Mehelich; brothers-in-law, Gene Specht and Kirk (Janet) Wolff; sister-in-law, Cynthia Boock; 11 nieces and nephews; and many friends.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Tony and Iris Mehelich; parents-in-law, Fred and Irene Wolff; brother, Bill Mehelich; sister-in-law, Lynn Mehelich; sister, Jeannie Specht; and nephew, Michael Mehelich.

There will be no formal funeral service.