Franco Reid Warren Belk

Nov 7, 1947 -

Apr 5, 2026

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Franco Reid Warren Belk on April 5, 2026.

Lifelong Alaskan, 42-year business owner and consummate free-spirit, Franco arrived in Alaska at age 3, the eldest child of Reid and Angela (Seghezzi) Belk. He spent his youth growing up in the Eagle River and Chugiak communities with siblings Ann, Harold and Larry.

Franco was a member of Chugiak High School's first graduating class in 1965. On his 18th birthday, Franco enlisted in the U.S. Army. He served with distinction and was a proud Vietnam veteran. Following his military service, Franco returned to Alaska, immediately joining the Bureau of Land Management where he fought wildfires across the Kenai Peninsula in the early '70s.

From early youth, Franco had an enthusiasm and talent for anything automotive and that shaped his life and career choices. He channeled his automotive knowledge and obtained ASE certification as a Master Certified Automotive Technician. After gaining experience at several Anchorage-area automotive shops, Franco took a huge leap of faith in May 1984, opening his own business, Peters Creek Auto Repair. When the chance to expand to Eagle River arose, Franco and wife, Kristie, opened a second shop there in 1992. Ultimately, they merged the two shops in 1996, subsequently building a large addition and becoming present day Eagle River Automotive.

Franco embraced life full speed ahead with boundless energy and an independent spirit with few limits. At age 16, he and his mother flew stateside, picked up a new family car and drove back to Alaska, making that Alcan trip countless times over the years. Franco's love for automobiles was eclipsed only by his love of speed; in his teen years, he raced cars on the back roads of Chugiak-Eagle River to Fort Richardson, timing the trips to beat the next time. And Franco loved to fly. In the Army he was crew chief on Huey helicopters, back in Alaska he flew hang gliders off Wallace Mountain in Eagle River and took flying lessons. He camped, fished and boated all over the state as well as many Lower 48 states, Canada and Hawaii, sharing many adventures with his children and grandchildren over the years. And always, Franco played golf.

Throughout his life, Franco's passion for golf remained a consummate pastime and challenge while fostering lasting friendships and a lifetime of great memories. More than that, golf served as a primary motivation during his recovery periods from major health battles. Over the years, Franco overcame a multitude of serious accidents, major surgeries and life-threatening health challenges. His unwavering tenacity and resilience, a whole lot of stubborn Italian attitude coupled with that unwavering determination to swing his golf club one more time was the motivation that kept him always moving forward with a strong mental attitude.

In his youth, Franco played baseball and basketball, often made possible only through the support of local small business owners. As a business owner himself, he felt an obligation to honor those owners and pay it forward. Franco's commitment to the Chugiak-Eagle River community including supporting local youth and youth organizations, a multitude of small nonprofits, as well as local civic organizations. He belonged to American Legion Post 33, was a charter member of the Eagle River Elks Lodge and lifetime member of VFW Post 9785.

In addition to his wife and siblings, Franco is survived by seven children and stepchildren, along with eight grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews across the U.S., as well as family in Italy, and his canine cohort in crime, Zeus.

At Franco's request, there will be no formal funeral service. In his memory, contributions are suggested to one of his favorite charities, Alaska Beagle Ranch, 1161 E Dan St, Wasilla, AK 99654; www.alaskabeagleranch.org.

"When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure."

Linda Louise Hartley

Jul 11, 1949 -

Nov 20, 2025

Linda Louise Hartley passed peacefully on Nov. 20, 2025, in Carmel, Ind., following complications from injuries sustained in a fall. She was born on July 11, 1949, in Salem, Ore., to Robert Wesley Hartley and Marilyn Starr (Morse) Hartley.

Linda grew up in Salem and graduated from North Salem High School. She attended the University of Oregon before setting out on a bold new adventure in Hawaii in 1968, where she lived a life of friendship, meaningful work and lasting memories. After returning to Oregon, Linda married and later lived in Michigan and Virginia, where her sons were born and raised. In 1983, the family returned to Oregon, allowing her to remain close to family and to continue building a life centered on creativity, faith and service.

A gift from her grandmother Morse helped launch one of the defining chapters of Linda's life: a career in sewing, quilting, sales and creative entrepreneurship. She worked for Whitlock's Sewing, later opened her own store, Sew Much More! in McMinnville, Ore., and went on to work with Viking Distributing, traveling throughout the Northwest teaching and mentoring.

In 2006, Linda moved to Anchorage, Alaska, where she helped the successful launch of the restored McKinley Tower Apartments. She retired in 2014. After a serious car accident in 2017, Linda faced later health challenges with resilience and grace. In 2022, she moved to Indiana to be near her son Benjamin and his family.

Linda was known for her integrity, warmth, humor, creativity and remarkable ability to make people laugh. She was an accomplished storyteller, seamstress, quilter, decorator and salesperson who brought beauty and excellence to everything she did. She was also a breast cancer survivor and a woman of deep and abiding faith.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Marilyn Hartley; grandparents, Charles Dean and Georgia Leanna Starr Morse, and James Madison and Grace Naomi Hughes Hartley. She is survived by her brother, Robert Hartley (Pam) of Prineville, Ore.; sister, Lael Marlow (Marc) of Anchorage; sons, Andrew Frobig (Samantha) of Fargo, N.D., and Benjamin Frobig (Leslie) of Carmel, Ind.; granddaughters, Kendall and Ellie Frobig; and beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 4 p.m. on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at Faith Christian Community, 4240 Wisconsin Street in Anchorage. A second memorial service will be held in Salem on Friday, Aug. 14, 2026. Linda's ashes will be spread in Hawaii, her "happy place," on July 11, 2026, the day that would have marked her 77th birthday.

Arlene Turner Hassell

Mar 10, 1942 -

May 15, 2026

Arlene Turner Hassell, age 84, died May 15, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska. Arlene was born in Clayton, N.C., to Nellie and Rowland Turner. Though in her last years she dealt with Alzheimer's, her life prior to that was full and rewarding. Her husband's career allowed her to remain at home until her children graduated from college. After that she worked successfully as a vendor representative at Alaska military bases representing some major lines.

She made good use of the time she was a housewife, learning to be a proficient hunter and fisherman, among other hobbies. She also decorated cakes and became a major award winner at Fur Rendezvous and Alaska State Fair competitions from 1970 through the late 1990s. She has numerous newspaper articles written about her awards and met three governors.

Arlene is survived by her husband, Jim; two children, James Hassell Jr. and Katherine Schock; and two grandchildren, Matthew Schock and Samantha Schock. She also leaves two sisters, Mary Rhodes and Shirley Coble.

No formal services are planned, rather a private gathering to celebrate her life will take place at a later date.

Ralph Langham

Mar 14, 1964 -

Dec 15, 2025

Ralph Franklin Langham Jr. passed away on Dec. 15, 2025, at the age of 61 years. Ralph was born in Fairfield, Calif., on March 14, 1964, to mother Dorothy Virginia Nead and father Ralph Franklin Langham Sr.

He is preceded in death by both his parents; sister, Crystal Dawn Langham; and niece, Brittany Langham.

Ralph moved to Alaska in the 1970s. He had trade skills in masonry, carpentry and many others, before starting work on the North Slope. He was an employee for Nabors Alaska Drilling for 30 years, and enjoyed his job and working with his coworkers. He was a Field Tool Pusher, was always dependable and put safety first. He loved fishing, hunting, camping and sitting around the campfires with friends and family. He enjoyed spending time on his homestead, and worked hard to make it a beautiful, inviting home. He loved his boats, campers, motorhomes, fast cars, snowmachines, motorcycles, vintage vehicles and many other fun toys. He was a community favorite, with a smiling face and helpful disposition. He would bring elders smoked salmon, halibut, moose meat and home grown vegetables, and help his neighbors in need.

He leaves behind his wife of 15 years, Roxanne Dolfi Langham; along with their nieces, Alyson and Aluxia; and nephew, Anthony Lieble, who he was helping raise. He leaves his brother, Scott Langham; nephews, Michael, Nick and Devin; sister, Linda Martin and brother-in-law Peter Martin and their children, daughter Daniele Lafond of Dallas, Texas, and son Jake Belanger of Tacoma, Wash.

A Celebration of Life Potluck will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 2 p.m., at his homestead, 11701 North Wright Way in Sutton, Alaska.

Lawrence Wayne Libby

Jun 4, 1949 -

May 16, 2026

Lawrence Wayne Libby, better known as Larry, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the age of 76.

Born in Arlington, Va., on June 4, 1949. Larry, with his wife, Wilda M. Libby, relocated to Anchorage, Alaska, where they raised their three children and where he made his home for the remainder of his life. Larry lived a life devoted to faith, family and hard work. A proud and loving father of three, he could tell you all things about working on the Alaska pipeline, thawing waterlines, building, water taps, road construction, working on engines and all things history. You name it - he could tell you everything about every western movie that has ever been made.

There were always stories to listen to and history to be discussed with Ol' Man Libby. While grandkids knew him as their grandpa who sat in his chair, watching old westerns, and seasonally "Thawing Waterlines," his friends and family saw him as a great man - an entrepreneur of sorts.

Lawrence Wayne Libby is preceded in death by his parents: Walter L. and Lessie G. Libby of Arlington. He's also preceded in death by his two brothers: William Libby of Arlington and Walter Libby Junior of Louisa, Va. He is survived by his sister-in-law, Erika Libby of Louisa; nephew, Wayne Libby of Louisa; and two great-nephews, Austin Libby and Nathan Libby of Louisa.

Larry is survived by his beautiful spouse of 57 years, Wilda M. Libby of Anchorage; and his three children: daughter, Kristina L. Libby of Coeur d'Alene, Idaho; son, John Wayne Libby of Anchorage and wife C. Alison Libby; and daughter Sharon L. Libby-Eyerly of Shoreline, Wash., and husband Matt Eyerly.

Larry is survived by his four precious grandchildren: Sterling D. Sederholm-Libby of Coeur d'Alene, Hope M. Libby of Coeur d'Alene, Justus Wayne Libby of Anchorage, and Elle H. Eyerly of Shoreline.

Visitation at Evergreen Memorial Chapel in Anchorage, Alaska will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Services and Burial will follow in West Virginia on June 6, 2026.

Kermit Mosher

Feb 22, 1944 -

May 5, 2026

Kermit "Kip" Mosher, born on Feb. 22, 1944, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. He was 82 years old.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, coach, veteran and public servant, Kip lived a life defined by integrity, humility and service to others. He is survived by his beloved wife of 54 years, Kathy Mosher; children, Patrick Mosher and Jennifer Farley; and cherished grandchildren, Chase and Cameron.

Kip arrived in Alaska in 1959 and quickly made it his home. After serving honorably in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era, he spent 20 years with the Anchorage Police Department, where he earned the respect of colleagues and the community through his professionalism, fairness and calm presence.

In his younger years, Kip was an elite athlete, played college football and semi-pro baseball, and later became a PGA certified Golf Pro. He enjoyed all things outdoors, was a skilled marksman, fisherman and survivalist, and loved sharing these hobbies with friends and family. Kip also dedicated countless hours to coaching and mentoring young people from elementary through high school. He taught not only the fundamentals of sports, but also the values of discipline, teamwork, resilience and sportsmanship. To many, he was a steady and encouraging influence whose impact extended far beyond the field.

Above all, Kip treasured his family. His marriage to Kathy reflected a lifetime of love and partnership, and he was a proud father and grandfather who brought guidance, humor and quiet wisdom to those closest to him.

Kip will be remembered not only for his service, but for the character with which he lived — humble, dependable and generous. Whether in uniform, on the field, in the woods or at home with family, he led by example and left a lasting impact on all who knew him.

A celebration of life to be announced at a later date.

Robert Carl Peltz Jr.

Jan 10, 1942 -

May 11, 2026

Robert C. Pelz Jr., "Bob," died peacefully from leukemia at Baxter Senior Living in Anchorage, Alaska, on Monday, May 11, 2026. Bob was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Ruth Pelz; his sister; and his beloved wife of 35 years, Sharron Ann Harris. He is survived by his partner, Holly Trimble, and his cherished friends.

Bob was born in Oak Park, Ill., and moved to Alaska in his early 20s after earning a degree in general science. A lifelong learner, he went on to earn advanced certifications in science and education.

Bob quickly discovered that Alaska would remain his true home for the rest of his life. He loved the beauty of the state, its people and the many adventures he experienced here. Over the years, he worked in a wide variety of contract positions as a field geologist, biologist, educator and counselor. His work reflected his wide-ranging intellect, curiosity and independent spirit.

Bob fully embraced Alaska. He loved remote places, long adventures and the lifestyle Alaska provided. Friends knew him as thoughtful, compassionate, intelligent and deeply authentic. He made everyone he spoke with feel like the most important person in his life at that moment. He listened to countless people without ever violating a confidence.

In his 50s, Bob developed severe rheumatoid arthritis, a disease that progressively limited his physical abilities and eventually reshaped nearly every aspect of his daily life. Despite these challenges, he worked hard to maintain his optimism, humor, independence and appreciation for life. Those who knew him well admired his courage and grace.

Bob will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, sharp mind, resilience and enduring love for Alaska. He leaves behind Holly and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by his kindness, intelligence, humor and companionship.

A celebration of life will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in the Airport Heights neighborhood. The date and time will be announced later. Please see Janssen Funeral Homes for updates at www.janssenfuneralhomes.com.

Nichole Roullier

Sep 13, 1974 -

May 9, 2026

Nichole Diane Roullier (Hess), 51, passed away suddenly in her home in Anchorage, Alaska, on May 9, 2026.

Nichole was born on Sept. 13, 1974, in Denver, Colo., to her loving parents, William Hess and Diane Hess. She moved to Alaska at eight months old, with them and her two older siblings, Patrick and Katherine. Nickie graduated from Dimond High School in 1992. In 1991, she was introduced to Mark Roullier, who would become the love of her life. They married on June 23, 1994, surrounded by loved ones.

Nichole became a loving mother in 1997 to Mariah, and to Dalton in 2000. She was an involved and devoted mother who worked tirelessly to provide her children with love, guidance and encouragement.

Nichole earned a bachelor's degree in civil engineering with a minor in mathematics from UAA in 1996. She ran many successful home businesses while also raising her two children. Nickie had a loving heart, and often cared for many children beyond her own. She never failed to rise to the occasion when it came to helping her friends and family. In November 2025, she became a grandmother to Ezra and cherished every moment with him until her untimely passing.

Nichole was preceded in death by her father, Bill Hess. She is survived by her mother, Diane Hess; her loving husband of 32 years, Mark Roullier; two children, Mariah (Brayden) Neeser and Dalton Roullier; grandson, Ezra Neeser; siblings, Patrick (Pamela) Hess and Katherine DeLaughter; and loyal companion, Denali.

Please join us for the funeral service on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at 1 p.m., at Janssen's Evergreen Memorial Chapel, 737 E Street in Anchorage. The celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 6 p.m., at the Alaska Aviation Museum, 4721 Aircraft Drive in Anchorage.

Frederick "Fred" Lee Sager

May 21, 1954 -

May 7, 2026

Fredrick Lee Sager passed away on Thursday, May 7, 2026, at Providence Hospital in Anchorage, Alaska, at the age of 71.

Born in Hillsdale, Mich., to Richard and Hildagard (Kruger) Sager, Fred discovered his love for theater early in life through music, performance and technical production. He graduated from Jonesville High School in 1972, attended Interlochen Arts Academy Summer Camp, and later graduated from Central Michigan University before traveling the country working on theater productions from Virginia to Oregon.

When Fred arrived in Anchorage, he found the place that would become his true home.

Fred worked with Alaska Repertory Theatre through the 1980s as a Journeyman Electrician and later joined Anchorage Concert Association as Technical Director during its transition into the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. He would go on to serve for decades as Production Manager for the Evangeline Atwood Concert Hall, becoming a cornerstone of Alaska's performing arts community.

Fred's true artistry lived in light. He especially loved lighting dance and was a devoted creative partner to Alaska Dance Theatre for decades, helping generations of young dancers step confidently into the spotlight. Quietly and without fanfare, he mentored artists, technicians and colleagues across Alaska's arts community through his dedication, precision, humor and steadfast loyalty.

Though exacting in his work, Fred was deeply kindhearted and generous to those fortunate enough to know him well. Beyond the theater, he loved camping, hiking, kayaking and exploring Alaska's wilderness.

He is survived by his brothers, Richard Sager and David Sager; sister, Paula (Erich) Abraham; best friend of more than 30 years, Mark Florez; and a theater community forever shaped by his presence.

Later in summer 2026, friends will gather to celebrate Fred's life. Fred's family invites donations to the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, 621 W. 6th Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99501, where his work quietly illuminated stages, artists and audiences for decades.

Arthur H. Snowden II

May 1, 1940 -

Apr 25, 2026

Arthur H. Snowden II, a legendary figure in Alaska's judicial history, died on April 25, 2026, in Portland, Ore. He was 85. Born in Connecticut, Snowden came to Alaska in 1973, when he was hired as Administrative Director of the Alaska Court System, a position he held for nearly a quarter of a century.

In an interview conducted in 2006, Snowden described the Alaska Supreme Court as "desperate" when they offered him the job back in 1973. The court system had been through seven directors in the 14 years since statehood and was struggling to be recognized as an independent branch of government rather than another department within the executive branch.

Snowden proved to be an effective advocate for the court system in Juneau, eventually persuading legislators and the executive branch to regard the judiciary as a co-equal branch of government rather than a department and as a trustworthy steward of public funds. With legislative support, he hired administrative staff and took over the administrative functions previously performed for the courts by the executive branch.

He took pride in accomplishing one of the supreme court's highest priorities, which was strengthening the rural magistrate system. At the time, non-lawyer magistrates provided justice throughout rural Alaska, but often worked out of their homes without adequate preparation for the case types they were expected to handle. Again, with support from the legislature and the supreme court, Snowden was able to move magistrates "off their kitchen tables and into real offices." He hired lawyers to create forms, checklists and other magistrate training materials, and recruited trial judges to answer magistrate calls.

Later, at the supreme court's request, he successfully advocated for creation of the Court of Appeals to handle criminal appeals. He obtained funding for additional trial court judges, for new court buildings in Fairbanks, Anchorage, Palmer and Kenai, and received legislative approval to purchase the Anchorage Times Building so that the court's administrative offices and training facilities could be consolidated under one roof. During his 24 1/2 years as administrative director, the court system's budget was never cut. When asked to explain his extraordinary legislative support, Snowden attributed it to relationships, giving your word, complete honesty, complete transparency and whether they like you or not.

Snowden's influence extended well beyond Alaska. He became a member of the board of directors of the National Center for State Courts beginning in 1984, and was later elected to a leadership role in that organization. In 1991, he received the Warren E. Burger Award, which is given annually to an individual in recognition of substantial contributions to the improvement of court administration and the judicial system.

Even after his retirement in 1997, Snowden continued to serve Alaska's justice system. He co-chaired the Alaska Criminal Justice Assessment Commission on a volunteer basis almost immediately after stepping down, and the commission's final report credited him as playing a "crucial role" — noting that "without his ideas and skills, the Commission would not have accomplished the significant work represented in this final report."

In recognition of Snowden's decades of distinguished service, the Alaska Supreme Court named the Administrative Office Building in downtown Anchorage after him.

Snowden is survived by his wife, Cheryl Copeland Snowden; daughter, Kirsten Snowden and husband John Schroeder; son, Arthur Neilan Snowden and wife Caitlin; four grandchildren; sister, Barbara Snowden Van Dine; and several nieces and nephews.

Michael Patrick Suman

Feb 2, 1963 -

May 10, 2026

Michael Patrick Suman has passed away on May 10, 2026, at the age of 63.

Michael was born the oldest child of Patrick and Patricia Suman on Feb. 2, 1963, in Dayton, Ohio. He attended college in Marquette, Mich., before making a big life move to Alaska, where he lived for over 34 years. While there, he developed a passion for mushing and ran his own dog sled for many years, both for enjoyment and competition. He was crazy about dogs and cats alike, having many of both over the years. He also proudly followed in his father's and grandfather's footsteps and became an amazing woodworker.

Michael loved animals, the outdoors and the amazing people and places of Alaska. He was a kind man and a good son, brother and friend.

Michael leaves behind his father, Patrick; sisters, Karen (Ron) and Leigh Ann (Kris); nieces, Alicia, Emily (Roberto), Kaitlyn (Dan), Haley and Sydney; and nephew, Wesley (Rylee); as well as many dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Patricia; and niece, Sara.

Michael will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Marie Weinard Blood

Jul 20, 1931 -

Apr 17, 2026

Marie Louise Weinard Blood passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on April 17, 2026. She was fondly known for her cookies and her carefully crafted poetry, both of which she gifted freely with love.

Born in High River, Alberta, Canada, on July 20, 1931, to Henry "Gea" Weinard and Bessie Arnold, Marie spent her childhood on ranches in Eden Valley, Alberta, and Salmon Arm, British Columbia. There, she enjoyed the outdoors and playing with animals, while learning to knit, sew, work hard and be grateful for all she had. At just 10 years old, she heard of troops fighting in WWII and knitted socks for them.

She graduated from Salmon Arm High School, Kamloops Business School, and worked as a school secretary until she enlisted in the Royal Canadian Air Force, from which she was honorably discharged as an Airwoman 2nd Class.

In 1955, after months of correspondence, Marie married Slim Blood. They purchased the F/V Jo in Seattle and made their home in Elfin Cove, Alaska. Son Russell was born, soon followed by Frank. Raising two small boys on a fishing boat was challenging, so Marie and Slim built a tent house in Glacier Bay. After living in Anchorage for a short time, they moved to Fairbanks, Alaska, where Marie raised their boys in a rustic cabin outside of town while Slim helped develop the Seattle-Fairbanks route for Lynden Transfer.

Marie and Slim fished the F/V Jo out of Cordova during the 1963 season, docking the boat in Valdez, Alaska, for the winter before returning to Fairbanks. In March 1964, the family prepared to travel to Valdez to ready the boat for the next season. However, Marie, expecting youngest son, Dean, was not feeling well and decided to delay their trip. The earthquake hit, and their boat was lost. Realizing the community would face significant supply and transportation hardships, they decided to move to Valdez to help rebuild.

In Valdez, they bought and fished the F/V Payday. Marie was integral to their newly established Harbor Fuel and Valdez Alaska Terminals businesses. Over the years, she also assisted in other local businesses and worked as Terminal Manager at Polar Airways.

Marie was a lifelong poet, from her first contest-winning piece to numerous published works, print ads and gifted poems. Her work was renowned far and wide, earning her many awards and accolades. She took great pride in her community and its Gold Rush Days celebration, to which she contributed annual poems, modeled in the fashion show, hosted hat-making classes and even served as royalty. She was a proud member of the National Poets Society, many state and local civic organizations and the Pioneers of Alaska.

Marie's life was a testament to love, devotion, family and community. A devoted member of Bayside Community Church, she built a strong and loving church family, cherishing her time spent in fellowship. Her legacy lives on through her love for family, friends and dedication to her faith. She will be deeply missed.

Marie was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, John and Bob Weinard; and sister, Margaret Dobbin. She is survived by her sons, Russ (Janet), Frank (Jule) and Dean (Tina); grandchildren, Chad (Regina), Pat (Ashley), Ryan, Shannon, Gary (Kena) and Gavin; great-grandchildren, Warren, Malin, Theron, Nolan, Madelyn, Natalia, Willow, Walker, Elias and Julian; and niece and nephews, Wendy Dobbin, Ron (Ruth) Dobbin and Freddy Weinard.

A Celebration of Marie's life will be held on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 2 p.m., at the Valdez Civic Center.