Keyvalue
Keyvalue
Search for an Obituary List by town directory
Advertisement
Recent Obituaries
Your search returned 14 results
 indicates that the individual has a Lasting Memories online memorial website

AdamsRonald E. ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 1, 2026

Ronald E. Adams

May 19, 1951 -

Dec 30, 2025

Ronald E. Adams passed away peacefully on Dec. 30, 2025, surrounded by the love of his wife, Julie Adams, and their son, Randy Adams.

Ron was a devoted husband, father and grandfather, and a cherished member of his community. He is survived by his beloved wife, Julie; two sons; three daughters; and 17 grandchildren, all of whom were the pride and joy of his life.

Ron made Anchorage, Alaska, his home from 1979 until his passing. He began his career at Fred Meyer after transferring from Seattle, Wash., and after several years decided to pursue a new path. He went on to work at Spenard Builders Supply, where he ultimately retired after many years in Rural Sales. Through his work, Ron built lasting relationships with countless clients—many of whom became close friends, and some who felt like family.

Ron and Julie shared a deep commitment to service. Together, they volunteered at special education events, helping, cheering and cooking for those in need. One of their most cherished traditions was hosting Thanksgiving dinners for SHS, preparing meals for over 300 children each year. These moments filled their hearts and created lifelong friendships.

Summers were spent at the cabin and on the river—fishing, laughing and making memories. "Fish on" was more than a phrase; it was a way of life. These are the memories his family and friends will forever hold close.

Every day with Ron was filled with special moments that will never be forgotten. He often shared how grateful he was for the life he and Julie built together, the memories made with family and friends, and the love they shared. Their marriage was a true partnership—built on friendship, love and laughter.

Ron will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know and love him.

-Love of his life, his wife Julie Adams

BunkerMargaret "Peggy" ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 4, 2026

Margaret "Peggy" Bunker

May 8, 1939 -

Jan 26, 2026

Margaret "Peggy" Bunker, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and caregiver, passed away on Jan. 26, 2026, at Mat-Su Regional Hospital in Palmer, Alaska. Born in 1939, in Jackson, Mich., to Merle and Madeline Grinnell, Peggy lived a life defined not by volume or spectacle, but by steadiness, devotion and a quiet strength that shaped her family and community for more than six decades.

Peggy grew up in southern Michigan, where she met and married her high school sweetheart, Gerald "Jerry" Bunker, at just 16 years old. Their marriage would span nearly 63 years and form the foundation of a shared life marked by movement, sacrifice and enduring partnership. From the beginning, Peggy carried her commitments seriously, assuming responsibility early and with little fanfare.

During Jerry's service in the U.S. Navy, Peggy lived on base in San Diego, Calif., often functioning as a single mother while Jerry was deployed for months at a time. It was there that she began raising their young family, learning early the strength required to hold things together quietly and reliably. After Jerry's honorable discharge in 1960, the family returned to Michigan, where their sons Glenn, Greg and Jeff were born, before eventually planning the move that would change the course of their lives.

In summer 1965, Peggy relocated to Alaska with Jerry and their three young sons, pregnant with their fourth, Aaron. Though Alaska was initially Jerry's dream, Peggy made it her home, anchoring the family through the uncertainties of a new place with calm resolve and unwavering care. While Alaska may have called to Jerry first, Peggy embraced it with quiet aplomb. Relatives back in Michigan were often surprised to learn that the shy, reserved girl they remembered was now thriving in the Last Frontier — packing a pistol on her hip and managing the camp and kids while Jerry, his cousins and uncles worked to build a remote cabin that would become a touchstone for their young family. Beneath her gentle demeanor was a strength and adaptability that surfaced naturally when circumstances demanded it.

Where Jerry was outwardly gregarious and magnetic, Peggy was reserved and steady — a perfect and necessary counterbalance. She once confided that she felt she lived in Jerry's shadow, but those closest to her saw something different entirely. Peggy was the emotional architecture of the family: the quiet presence that made everything else possible. She did not seek attention, but she commanded trust. She did not lead loudly, but she led faithfully.

As her children grew, Peggy began shaping an identity beyond her role as wife and mother, extending her caregiving nature into the wider community. She ran a successful in-home daycare, earning the trust of neighbors through her warmth, reliability and calm authority. She later managed the Spenard Kiddy Drop daycare center for many years, caring for countless children and supporting families during some of their most formative seasons. Her work was never about recognition; it was about responsibility, and she carried it well.

That same instinct later found its way back into her own family life, as Peggy lovingly provided daycare for different sets of grandchildren over the years. In doing so, she wove a family tapestry threaded with generational continuity — the same steady care, quiet presence and faithfulness she had offered to so many others. Peggy's gift was not spectacle but presence. She listened more than she spoke. She noticed what others missed. She remembered birthdays, worries and small details that mattered. In a life shared with a man drawn outward by adventure, Peggy created the home that made return possible — steady, welcoming and quietly strong. In her final years, that same quiet constancy remained — not dramatic, not easy, but faithful. Peggy met even the hardest seasons of life the same way she met all others: with resolve, humility and care for those around her.

Peggy was preceded in death by her son, Jeff, in 1988; and by her husband, Jerry, in 2019. She is survived by her sons, Glenn, Greg and Aaron, along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who were shaped, in ways both visible and unseen, by her enduring love.

In keeping with Peggy's nature, there will be no formal funeral service. A remembrance will be held and announced at a later date. Her legacy lives on not in grand gestures, but in the lives she held together — patiently, faithfully and well.

ConwayDiana ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 4, 2026

Diana Conway

May 29, 1943 -

Jan 18, 2026

Diana Conway died on Jan. 18, 2026, at age 82. She was a woman who lived life entirely on her own terms.

Born in Marshall, Mo., she graduated from UCLA and earned her Ph.D. from New York University. She served in the Peace Corps in Peru before moving to Anchorage, Alaska, where she taught Spanish at University of Alaska Anchorage for many years.

After retiring, Diana spent nearly four decades at Halibut Cove, Alaska. There she published children's books, became a newspaper columnist for the Anchorage Daily News, tended her garden, walked the island trails and became a beloved member of the community. She found the love of her life in artist Alex Combs, with whom she shared 30 years until his death in 2008.

A lifelong learner and minimalist, Diana taught herself Chinese, played guitar and sang, traveled the world and never stopped questioning.

She is survived by her sons and stepsons, their families and the community at Halibut Cove.

In lieu of flowers, take a walk and pick up something interesting.

HelmersJessica Nicole ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 1, 2026

Jessica Nicole Helmers

Jun 12, 1979 -

Jan 8, 2026

Jessica Nicole Helmers passed away on Jan. 8, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nev., with her family and one of her best friends by her side. Jessica Helmers was a beautiful soul whose warmth, kindness and generosity touched everyone she met. She had a rare gift for making friends wherever she went. Jessica was kind to everyone, always offering a smile, a listening ear or a helping hand.

After graduating from West Valley High School in Fairbanks, Alaska, in May 1998, Jessica started attending classes part-time at the University of Alaska Fairbanks while working part-time at the Captain Bartlett Inn. It was soon after that she applied for a job at Alaska USA FCU, now known as Global FCU. Professionally, Jessica built an impressive and respected career at Global Credit Union, and through many years of dedication, leadership and integrity, she rose to the role of Regional Vice President before retiring. She was admired not only for her professional accomplishments, but also for the way she supported and mentored others.

Jessica loved to travel and explore new places, embracing the experiences and memories that came with each journey. In her free time, she enjoyed playing softball and pool, as well as playing cards with her family - moments filled with laughter and cherished memories.

Above all, Jessica will be remembered for her loving heart, her ability to make everyone feel seen and valued, and the countless lives she touched simply by being herself.

Jessica is survived by her parents, Tom and Teri Helmers of Fairbanks; sisters; Leslie Helmers of Anchorage, Alaska, and Ashley Christenson of Fairbanks; nephews; as well as many cousins, aunts and uncles in Alaska and throughout the states.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Celebration of Life is planned for late May 2026, at Birch Hill Cross-Country Ski Recreation Center.

HoustonJanet ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 1, 2026

Janet Houston

Jun 27, 1961 -

Jan 20, 2026

Janet Houston, age 64, passed away peacefully on Jan. 20, 2026.

Born on June 27, 1961, in Centerville, Tenn., Janet lived a life defined by compassion, dedication and love. She most recently made her home in Wasilla, Alaska, where she was deeply rooted in her family and friends.

Janet devoted more than 30 years of her life to caring for others as a registered nurse. Her career was not just a profession, but a calling—one she carried out with skill, empathy and unwavering commitment to those in her care.

Above all else, Janet was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was the cherished wife of Ronald, a devoted mother to Olivia, Benjamin and Joseph, and a proud grandmother to Lucas and Corbin, who brought her immense joy.

Janet will be remembered for her warm heart, gentle spirit and the deep love she had for her family. She found happiness in simple pleasures—spending time crafting, sewing and tending to her garden and flowers—activities that reflected her patience, creativity and nurturing nature.

Her kindness touched countless lives, and her presence will be profoundly missed by all who knew and loved her.

Janet was preceded in death by her father, Franklin Plunkett.

She is survived by her mother, Amy (Bill) Flowers; siblings, Timmy Plunkett and April (Josh) Tidwell; her husband of 45 years, Ronald Houston; children, Olivia, Benjamin (Shannon) and Joseph; and grandchildren, Lucas and Corbin.

KirkDeborah L. ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 1, 2026

Deborah L. Kirk

Apr 4, 1950 -

Dec 22, 2025

Debby Kirk, born Deborah Vohs, she preferred to be known as "Debby with a Y," age 75, passed away peacefully on Dec. 22, 2025, at home in Palmer, Alaska. She was born on April 4, 1950, in Deer River, Minn., to Barney and Betty Vohs. At the age of 5, she moved with her family to Gresham, Ore., where she grew up with her older siblings, David and Judy, and attended public schools, graduating from Gresham High School in 1968.

It was in Gresham that she fell in love with Leonard Kirk, and they were married on March 21, 1970, soon after he graduated from Oregon's Portland State University. Their first child Benjamin arrived on April 13, 1972, at Woodland Park Hospital in Portland.

It was in 1973 that the young family set off on their Alaska adventure, arriving in Kotzebue late that year. As Debby cared for little Ben, Leonard started his aviation career, first with Baker Aviation and later with Maxon Aviation and Wien Air Alaska. Debby and Leonard welcomed their daughter Kiana on April 8, 1975. Debby was busy raising two young children, but she soon began providing childcare for the families of doctors working at Kotzebue's Indian Health Service hospital and the families of teachers at Kotzebue's schools. It was the beginning of Debby's long career helping and caring for young people.

In 1979, Debby, Leonard and their young family moved to Anchorage, where Debby pursued her passion for helping families and young people while Leonard continued his aviation career. Debby soon became a licensed childcare provider, operating her own childcare center. And she cared for other children, spending many hours volunteering at the Providence Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. In addition, she helped to start the Family Daycare Association to encourage licensing daycare homes and aiming to improve childcare quality.

In 2011, when Debby's aging father Barney needed their help, Debby and Leonard moved back to Gresham to care for him. But when Barney passed away in 2019, they returned to their beloved Alaska, settling this time in Palmer. Happy to be back in Alaska, they joyfully reconnected with old friends.

Palmer is known for wind, and when the wind howled and the power was out, Debby and Leonard enjoyed sitting in front of their fireplace, staying warm and sharing memories of childhood and the life they spent together, raising their family and helping others. Although Debby had ventured as far as Panama and Fiji, her favorite travel memories were in Alaska, especially camping with Leonard, Ben, Kiana and "wonder dog" Albert. Although she dealt with chronic medical issues, Debby always enjoyed friends' visits, bingo at the Palmer Senior Center, playing the "Hand and Foot" card game and working on the jigsaw puzzles that often covered her dining table. She was a caring person who adored Leonard, her children and her grandchildren.

Debby was predeceased by her daughter, Kiana, and survived by her loving husband, Leonard; son, Benjamin; daughter-in-law, Vivian; granddaughters, Savannah and Katie; and grandson, Andy, all living in Alaska. She is also survived by her brother, David of Oregon; and sister, Judy of Colorado.

Those who wish to honor Debby can donate to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Providence Hospital, 3200 Providence Drive, Anchorage, AK 99508; or to the Sarcoidosis Research Institute, 320 West Ohio Street, Chicago, IL 60654.

LacombeDonald ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 4, 2026

Donald Lacombe

Dec 20, 1933 -

Jan 28, 2026

Donald G. Lacombe passed away on Jan. 28, 2026, at the age of 92. Born in Cranston, R.I., he was the son of the late Joseph and Florence MacPherson Lacombe. Donald proudly served in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, Donald worked with American Airlines and Trans World Airlines, spending time in Saudi Arabia and several other countries. His career eventually brought him to Malta where he met his wife, Rita Despina. They married in 1972, and his work allowed them to travel the world together before settling in Fairbanks, Alaska, where he worked for Alaska International Air Inc. Donald and Rita later made their home in Anchorage, Alaska, where they have lived for the past 50 years.

Donald was predeceased by his son, Donald; daughter, Christine Long; three brothers, Raymond, Robert and Edward; and three sisters, Helen Lowe, Lillian Lacombe and Rena Mahon.

He is survived by his wife, Rita; brother, Joseph; daughter-in-law, Rebecca (Bo); and son-in-law, Steve Long. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Steve, Scott, Donald, Victoria and Elizabeth; great-grandchildren, Donnie, Laine, Brigitte, Shanaya and Emilia; and many loving nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at noon on Friday, Feb. 13, 2026, at Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Church, 2800 O'Malley Road in Anchorage, followed by burial at Fort Richardson National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Salvation Army of Anchorage, Alaska.

LozanoOfelia Felix ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 4, 2026

Ofelia Felix Lozano

Apr 11, 1943 -

Jan 28, 2026

Ofelia Felix Lozano, 82, passed away at her home in Palmer, Alaska, on Jan. 28, 2026. Ofelia was born in Zacatecas, Mexico, to Felipe Felix Gonzales and Carmen Berumen Pinedo. She married her true love, Pedro Muro Lozano on June 27, 1971, in Zacatecas, and then became a resident of Anchorage, Alaska, the same year. Pedro passed away in 2004. Ofelia moved to Palmer in 2013, when all her kids decided to settle in the Mat-Su Valley.

Ofelia loved being a wife, mother and grandmother above all. All who knew her were spoiled with her amazing cooking including her salsa, enchiladas, rice and quesadillas. She enjoyed crocheting and caring for her lawn and garden. She was known for her style and love of flashy colors, patterns and sparkly glasses and jewelry.

Her family wrote: "Ofelia, better known as mom or Bita, instilled the value of family, culture, tradition and loyalty that will leave a lasting legacy. She was selfless and lived to provide opportunities for her children. There was never a problem too big that we couldn't solve as a family. She was a skilled saver who knew how to turn a penny into a bounty. Her passing leaves her family with great sadness. However, there is peace knowing she is reuniting with her husband, Pedro, and our Lord, Jesus Christ."

Survivors include her daughter, Ophelia Barlow and son-in-law Bryan; daughter, Lisa Corcoran; son, Peter Lozano and daughter-in-law Addy; daughter, Carla Vizzerra and son-in-law Hondo; grandchildren, Evan and Ava Barlow, Cruz and Pedro Lozano, BrookeLynn and Dominic Young and Amaya and Katalina Vizzerra; great-grandson, Zaiden Young; and many beloved brothers and sisters.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Pedro Lozano; parents, Felipe and Carmen Felix; sister, Carmen; mother-in-law, Antonia Lozano; numerous brothers- and sisters-in-law; and godson, Michael Gonzalez.

Ofelia will be buried at a later date next to her husband at Angelus Memorial Park Cemetery in Anchorage.

MadisonGary Allan ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 1, 2026

Gary Allan Madison

Dec 22, 1945 -

Jan 21, 2026

Gary Allan Madison, nicknamed "GMAD," died peacefully at his home in Anchorage, Alaska, on Jan. 21, 2026.

Gary was born on Dec. 22, 1945, in Santa Rosa, Calif., to Arlyne Diehl and Harold Madison. Gary grew up in Riverton, Wyo., and developed a lifelong love of the outdoors through fishing, dirt biking, snowmobiling and hunting in the Wind River Range. He later earned a bachelor's degree in mathematics from the University of Wyoming.

After graduation, Gary joined the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, serving six years as an aircraft commander. While stationed in Jacksonville, Ark., he met and married Karen Lynn Hayden, his wife of 50 years. He began his civilian flying career with Air US in Riverton, later working for United Airlines for 20 years and finishing his career with Aero Air medevac.

Gary was an active member of his church for many years, serving as a deacon and as a member of the Gideons. He was widely known for his quiet generosity and service to others, frequently volunteering his mechanical skills, helping process game for families in need of food, shoveling roofs and maintaining yards—always without being asked or without seeking recognition. He consistently placed the needs of others before his own. His life was centered around church and family.

Gary is survived by his wife, Karen Madison of Anchorage; son, Hayden with wife Margarita Madison and their three children; son, Nick Madison with wife Megan Martone and their son, Carson Madison; daughter, Erica Madison with husband Chris Klosterman and their two children; brother, Steve Madison; and sister, Susan Taylor. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lew and Arlyne Diehl; grandmother, Margret Weber; and brother, Kent Madison.

McKenzieSharon ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 4, 2026

Sharon McKenzie

Oct 20, 1937 -

Jan 24, 2026

Sharon Kay McKenzie died in Anchorage, Alaska, on Jan. 24, 2026. Sharon was born on Oct. 20, 1937, in Sioux Falls, S.D., to Alexander and Mable Trembley. Sharon was the third of nine children.

As a child Sharon lived in Austin, Minn.; Tracy, Minn.; Hammond, Ind.; and Minneapolis, Minn. She graduated from South High School in Minneapolis in 1955.

After graduation, Sharon worked for Northwestern Bell Telephone Co. as an operator, before beginning her career in the travel industry with Northwest Airlines in 1958. Sharon worked for Northwest Airlines in Minneapolis, Washington, D.C., and Miami, Fla., before transferring to Anchorage in June 1960.

In Anchorage, Sharon worked for Northwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Western Airlines, MarkAir, World Express Travel, Crown Travel and Alaska Travel Source, and was associated for many years with Tandy Wallack of Circumpolar Expeditions.

Sharon conducted the first airline/travel agency classes in Alaska at the Anchorage Business College in 1969-1971, and conducted international airline classes at Alaska Pacific University in the 1970s.

Sharon married William "Red" McKenzie on Sept. 4, 1965. She was a member of Jewel Lake Parish church and P.E.O., Chapter K. Sharon enjoyed travel, reading, sculpting, crocheting and spending time with friends.

Sharon is survived by her sons, Donald McKenzie and Bryan McKenzie of Anchorage; brother, Neil Trembley of Minnesota; and sisters, Carol Vick of Minnesota and Sandra Null of Texas.

Sharon was preceded in death by her husband, Red McKenzie; and brothers, Alex, Ron, Chuck, Bruce and Tom Trembley.

A celebration of Sharon's life will be held at Jewel Lake Parish, 3833 Strawberry Road in Anchorage, on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, at 2 p.m.

SavilleJanis  

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 4, 2026

Janis Saville

Dec 2, 2025

Janis Burke Saville of Fayetteville, Ga., passed away at her home from the loving arms of her family into the loving arms of Jesus on Dec. 2, 2025. Born in 1951 and raised in Seward, Alaska, Janis attended the University of Alaska at Anchorage and Fairbanks, which included a semester at the Sorbonne in France, earning a B.A. in history. After devoting many years to raising her children, she attended Dallas Theological Seminary receiving her Masters in Theology. With this education and her many talents, she served in several capacities at Denton Bible Church of Denton, Texas, focusing on woman's leadership ministries and Bible teaching. This led to her employment in extensive worldwide missions to women and children, traveling to multiple countries on five continents, in the service of her Lord, Jesus Christ.

Expressive of her desire to be an attentive mother, some of her many interests and pursuits over the years included natural childbirth, breastfeeding advocacy and education, La Leche League leadership and homeschooling her children all the way to college acceptance. She was a voracious reader and a marvelous cook. Her delicate and compassionate care and concern for creation was displayed in the way she relished the beauty of wildlife, and how she cared for many pets.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Fern Burke of Seward; sister, Nancy Palmer of Boise, Idaho; and nephew, Jason Palmer of Orange County, Calif.

Surviving her is her husband of 52 years James E. Saville Jr. of Fayetteville; son, Nathan and daughter-in-law Angela, grandson and granddaughter Luke and Josephine Saville, all of Peachtree City, Ga.; daughter, Katherine Sullivan and grandson Henry Sullivan of Bend, Ore.; and nephew, Geoffrey Palmer of Long Beach, Calif.

Janis was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother, friend and servant leader, who was a blessing to all who knew her, distinctive for her true and beautiful faith in the Lord Jesus, and for the love that she let flow from him to all those around her. We were all so blessed to have her in our lives. We welcome you to provide your condolences, thoughts and memories on our Tribute Wall. Mowell Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Peachtree City, www.mowells.com.

StarkSteve ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 1, 2026

Steve Cass Stark, 63, passed away at home in Anchorage, Alaska, on Jan. 23, 2026. He was born in West Branch, Mich., on Jan. 26, 1962.

SumeyJanice ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 1, 2026

Janice Sumey

Dec 7, 1942 -

Jan 25, 2026

Janice Colleen Sumey (Ericson) was born on Dec. 7, 1942, in North Bend, Ore., to Carl Frederick Ericson Jr. and Mary Patricia Ericson (Murphy). She passed away unexpectedly at home in Anchorage, Alaska, on Jan. 25, 2026.

Janice graduated from North Bend High School in 1961, and Sacred Heart School of Nursing in 1964. She was commissioned as 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Air Force in 1964. She completed basic training in Montgomery, Ala., in 1965 during the Freedom Marches; served as a labor and delivery nurse at the USAF Academy Hospital; then trained as a flight nurse at the School of Aerospace Medicine. She went on to serve as a Captain at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines with the 19th Casualty Staging Unit during the Vietnam conflict. She remained in the reserves until 1976.

In 1968, Janice married Thomas Sumey in the Philippines and after returning stateside, they relocated to Alaska while continuing her career as a labor and delivery nurse. She raised three children and lived in Fairbanks, Anderson, Moose Pass, Soldotna and Anchorage, where she settled permanently in 1983. She worked for over 40 years supporting families as a Labor and Delivery nurse and retired from Providence in Anchorage in 2010.

She loved her dogs and cats, fishing, berry picking, making jam and smoking fish. She found joy in crocheting sweaters, scarves, hats and blankets for others and we will treasure her creations forever. She also loved traveling with her dear friends and family.

Janice was part of the St. Patrick's, Holy Cross and St. Benedict's parish through her years in Anchorage. She supported the St. Patrick's Senior Group through parish nursing and by making and selling cookies and breads to raise funds to purchase socks for unhoused Alaskans.

Janice is preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Mary Ericson; sisters, Francis Ericson and Laurie Malone; and sister-in-law, Jeranne.

Janice is survived by her children, Laura Young (Randy), James Sumey and Katherine Sumey; grandchildren, Christina Sumey, Jacob Overway, Max Young and Megan Young; brothers, Fred Ericson, John Ericson (Vicki) and Richard Ericson (Sheila); sisters, Patricia Horne, Buffy Ericson and Mary Ericson (Jack); many beloved nieces and nephews; ex-husband and friend, Thomas Sumey; and bonus family, Candice Engen (Brian), Scott Stanford, John Engen and many that called her "Grandma Jan."

A service will be held at St. Patrick's Parish in Anchorage on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026. Visitation and rosary from 11-11:30 a.m., Mass at 11:45 a.m., with reception to follow in the hall.

Janice will be buried in Coos Bay, Ore., on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026. Service at 1 p.m. at North Bend Chapel, with a 2 p.m. graveside service with Military Honors at Sunset Memorial Park.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Janice's favorite charities: Brother Francis Shelter or Covenant House Alaska.

Van SantSteven ( -

First published in the Anchorage Daily News on Feb 4, 2026

Steven Van Sant

Apr 28, 1947 -

Dec 19, 2025

Steven was born in 1947, in Amarillo, Texas, to Joe Carrroll and Donna Dean (Davis) Van Sant, and graduated class of 1965 Tascosa High School in Amarillo. During the intervening years he and his family lived in 33 states, ending up in Alaska in 1968. Even from an early age Steven lived his life – his way! His interests included, Golden Gloves Boxing, car racing, disco dancing - he and his partners owned the first disco in Fairbanks, Alaska - stand-up comedy, acting, writing and directing multiple melodramas, skiing, snowmachining, attending Arctic Man and Trek Over the Top and learning the joys of living in Alaska. He enjoyed his years in National Guard, and he loved boating, camping, traveling along the Yukon and Tanana rivers. He was known for being kind, genuinely and deeply loved by everyone who crossed his path. He could make a room feel lighter just by being in it, and his laughter was contagious. He showed up for people, cracked jokes when they were needed the most.

In Steven's professional life, he started his career as a mapper in the Fairbanks North Star Borough and advanced to property appraiser. He went on to hold the title of Assessor in the Mat-Su Borough and the Municipality of Anchorage, then Assistant State Assessor, finally reaching his goal of State Assessor, where he became a premier instructor of appraisal and assessment. He was the liaison with the Alaska Legislative body and oversaw the assessment process for the State of Alaska. He took every position seriously, but never too seriously. He believed in fairness, hard work and doing things the right way, all while keeping his sense of humor intact. He had a gift for making even the driest topics more bearable and was respected not just for his work, but for the way he treated people.

Steven is survived by his beloved wife, Idris; and sisters, Vicki Salyer and Karen Anderson. Together Steven and Idris built a family full of personality, strength and just the right amount of chaos. He never missed an opportunity to brag on every child and grandchild! He was the proud father of Kurt, Lori, Dustin, Theresa, Kristi, Kyle and Katie; and along with grandchildren, Justin, Kirstie, Kavyn, Kenzie, Kaydence, Kenton and Mason. Two great-grandbabies are expected in March 2026.

Steven enjoyed building a life with his family, his precious dogs, Mr. Dickens, Baby Girl and Bebe. He created a bonus family of much-loved friends including, but not limited to: Karl and Kathy McManus, Wayne and Nancy Haerer, Lenny and Patti Reagan, Larry and Lynne Brown, Vern Roberts, Betty McLeod, Mikie Boehm and Roger and Christina Robertson.

Steven lost his long battle with vascular dementia and prostate cancer in December 2025. He requested no service, just a celebratory camp out with a bonfire and his family in remote Alaska. Steven leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and countless memories that will continue to be shared. He will be deeply missed, fondly remembered and forever loved.