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Cooper, Christine "Masak" Lesley ( - )
Christine "Masak" Lesley Cooper
Dec 22, 1974 -
Apr 18, 2026
Christine "Masak" Lesley Cooper, 51, of Nikiski, Alaska, passed away on April 18, 2026, at the home of a family member.
A viewing will be held from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a service from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, April 27, 2026, at Peninsula Memorial Chapel, 5839 Kenai Spur Highway in Kenai, Alaska. She will be laid to rest at the McGahan Cemetery following services.
Christine was born on Dec. 22, 1974, in Soldotna, Alaska, and remained a lifelong Alaskan. She graduated from Nikiski High School in 1993, and later attended Highline Community College in Des Moines, Wash. She also completed training at BCTI in Tukwila, Wash., and earned professional certification as a Certified Welding Inspector (NACE Level 2).
Christine dedicated over two decades of her life to Alaska's oil and gas industry. Her career reflected both versatility and determination, with roles ranging from roustabout to quality assurance and quality control inspector. She was also skilled as an equipment operator, warehouse worker, welder, pipefitter and crew lead. Her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence earned her the respect of colleagues throughout her career. She retired in 2019 to focus on her family and pursue other interests.
Outside of work, Christine found joy in quilting, sewing and crocheting. She loved fishing—both for subsistence and sport—gardening and traveling, and was passionate about wellness advocacy. She had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and a creative spirit that touched many aspects of her life.
Christine is survived by her husband, Karl Cooper of Nikiski; children, Emily Cooper (and Rikki Sickel) of Nikiski, Kyle Cooper of Nikiski, Augustus Gaetke of Anchorage, Alaska, Corin Cooper of Nikiski, and Treasa Walch of Anchorage; and cherished grandchildren, Dane, Salem, Natalie, Melinda, Valerie, Susitna and Tazlina. She is also survived by her siblings: Lillian Johnson, Billy-Gene Leavitt, Darlene Clark-Nelson, Sandy Leavitt and Mike Leavitt Jr.
She was preceded in death by her father, Mike Leavitt; and granddaughter, Stella Cooper.
Christine will be remembered for her strength, resilience and the deep love she had for her family and community. Her legacy lives on through those who knew and loved her.
Myonza Diane Dollison
May 1, 1957 -
Dec 23, 2025
Myonza Diane Dollison, "Diane," 68, suddenly passed away from natural causes on Dec. 23, 2025, at Alaska Regional Hospital.
Born on May 1, 1957, to Wynona "Princess" Key and Nathan Dollison Sr. in Vallejo, Calif., she spent most of her childhood in Omaha, Neb., and moved to Anchorage, Alaska, in 1972 with her mother, firstborn child, siblings, niece and nephew.
Upon her mother's passing, she became the family matriarch, embracing her faith to maintain unity. Despite mobility challenges stemming from a 1998 work-related injury, she remained determined and lived independently.
Diane loved dancing, cooking, events and family gatherings. Her children and family remember her devotion to motherhood starting at 15, and her quiet, feisty resilience.
Myonza Diane Dollison is survived by children, Damien Antonio Dollison, Tiana Marie Dollison, Kisha Wynona Tuttle, Devon Antwan Dollison and Dalane Anthony Dollison; grandchildren, Iiasha Jesse, Damien Jesse, Kyra Wynona Tuttle, Omariana Texter Dollison, Elias Dollison, Lainey Dollison, Lily Mraz and Isaiah Erickson; sister, Martha Davidson; brothers, Nathan Dollison Jr., Darnell Dollison, Aaron "Buddy" Dollison and Dwayne Dollison; along with great-grandchildren and a beautiful abundance of nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by parents, Wynona "Princess" Key and Joseph Key; Nathan Dollison Sr.; grandson, Malik Kelly; brother, Allen Keith Dollison; sisters, Michelle Atemba, Denise Dollison and Valerie Jean Dollison; nieces, Nadina Brown and Shorran Okemwa; and nephews, Jaron Cole, Deven Dollison and Elijah Trajon McCullough.
Services will be held on May 1, 2026, her heavenly birthday, at 6 p.m., at Aurora Baptist Church, 4001 E 5th Avenue in Anchorage. Repast will be held on May 3, 2026, from 7-10 p.m., at Lil Babes Cocktail Lounge, 3515 Mountain View Drive in Anchorage. Blue attire and memorial shirts on both days.
Danny Z. Donaldson
Sep 16, 1947 -
Apr 20, 2026
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Danny Zack Donaldson, a beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend who left this world on April 20, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on Sept. 16, 1947, in Sulphur Springs, Texas, to Zack and Helen Donaldson. Danny lived a life filled with passion, adventure and a deep appreciation for the great outdoors.
Danny's career as a fabrication manager in the oil and gas industry showcased his dedication and work ethic, but it was his love for nature that truly defined him. He found joy in hunting, particularly big game hunting, and could often be found fishing in local waters or enjoying a day of skeet shooting. His enthusiasm for the outdoors was matched only by his zest for life and his ever-present positive attitude.
Danny leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory. He is survived by his devoted spouse, Minah Donaldson; daughter, Candace Heck with husband Mark and children, Ava and Ashton McGrew; daughter, Jamie Charles with husband Ian and their children Easton, Waylon and London; son, David Donaldson; sister, Sharon Oberto and husband Bob; a host of cousins, nieces and nephews; and his lifelong friends, "brothers" Billy Bert Newsome and Frank Weiss.
A visitation will be held on April 26, 2026, at 1 p.m., at Beaty Funeral Home in Winnsboro, Texas, where family and friends are invited to gather and share their memories of Danny. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. at the same location. Danny will be laid to rest following the service at 3 p.m., at Lee Cemetery, 996 County Road 4700 in Winnsboro.
As we celebrate Danny's life, we invite all whose lives were touched by his kindness and warmth to join us in honoring his legacy. His spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.
Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Zack and Helen Donaldson; brothers, David Donaldson and Darrell Donaldson; and sister, Sharlene Blevins.
In memory of Danny Donaldson, the family request contributions to be made to one of Dan's passions in life, wildlife conservation! Zimbabwe Professional Guides Association, https://zpga.org/.
To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Danny Zack Donaldson, please visit our flower store.
Clifford Dean Ells died on Jan. 12, 2026, at Anchorage Regional Hospital. Services to be held at a later date.
James Edward Feser
Aug 26, 1933 -
Apr 14, 2026
James Edward Feser died peacefully in the early morning hours of April 14, 2026, at his home in Anchorage, after a 13-year battle with Alzheimer's.
Born on Aug. 26, 1933, in Yakima, Wash., the son of Frank Feser and Margaretha (Rabung) and youngest of four children: sister Gerty and brothers Francis and Walt.
Jim joined the United States Air Force out of high school in 1951, and served for three years as an aircraft repairman/technician.
He began working for Boeing in 1955, as an engineering supervisor and supervised the testing of the Minuteman Missile.
He met and married Marjorie Joan Gibb in 1957, had son Gregory in 1959, and divorced in 1974.
Jim transferred to New Orleans in 1963, where he oversaw the testing of the SaturnV - the launch vehicle for Apollo 11 which was responsible for placing the first men on the moon!
While working in New Orleans, Jim joined The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was baptized in 1968.
Moved, in 1971, to Salt Lake City, Utah, and began working for E-Systems (Raytheon) as an electronics technician and designed testing equipment for many devices sold to Boeing for use on their planes. He retired in 1998, after 27 years with the Montek Division.
He met and married Bonnie Jean Bacon in 1974; and had daughter Kimberly Anne in 1976.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Bonnie Jean, of 51 years; daughter, Kimberly Anne Rydberg; granddaughters, Hannah Rydberg and Morgan Rydberg; son, Gregory Feser; grandson, Matthew Feser; granddaughter, Jennifer Feser Mitrano and husband Elijah Mitrano; and nephews, Gary Feser and Stan Connelly.
The family would like to sincerely thank the VA, their kind and helpful neighbors and the ward family for their countless love and support.
A celebration of Life will take place in late May 2026. Cards and condolences can be sent to Bonnie Feser, 8136 E. 2nd Ave., Anchorage, AK 99504.
Hobbs, William Harry "Bill" ( - )
William Harry "Bill" Hobbs
Mar 18, 1940 -
Feb 17, 2026
William Harry "Bill" Hobbs was born to William C.B. and Laura E. (Bachelder) Hobbs on March 18, 1940, in Kennebunk, Maine. An only child, Bill attended a four-room elementary school, followed by a new and larger middle school and high school as Kennebunk grew after World War II. Maine provided outdoor adventures and opportunities for Bill and his friends, with Bill's interest in Alaska piqued through Sergeant Preston of the Yukon radio stories. Bill worked through high school on farms, in the woods doing logging and at the local grocery store. He played classical piano and slide trombone in high school. He met Carolyn A. Bruce just before graduation and became engaged to her, though he did not know just when he would marry her.
After graduating from Kennebunk High School in 1958, he attended Boston College, earning an Associate of the Arts degree in June 1960. After graduation, he accepted an Honorable Discharge from the Marine Corps reserve and joined the Air Force in August 1960. Bill married Carolyn in January 1961, after completing Air Force Basic Training and Technical Training to be an Air Traffic Controller at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas. He then had a short assignment at Wright Patterson in Ohio, a tour in Vietnam in 1962, and an 11-month assignment after that in Little Rock, Ark., where son Bruce William was born. In 1965, the Hobbs family of three moved to Eielson AFB, Alaska, where son Gregory Scott was born the next year.
Bill thrived in the Alaska outdoors, enjoying hunting moose in November in the below-zero cold and fishing under the midnight sun. As military life would have it, Bill and his family of four transferred back to the East Coast to Pease AFB, N.H., in 1973 for two years, which provided his sons a connection to their grandparents in Maine and Massachusetts. With the lure of Alaska still strong, Bill and his family moved back to Alaska in 1975 with an assignment to Eielson AFB in Fairbanks. Bruce and Greg grew into their teenage years, Carolyn worked at the NCO Club and the whole family enjoyed the Alaska outdoors. An assignment to Elmendorf AFB in 1979 brought Bill and his family to Anchorage. Bill achieved promotions to Master Sergeant and Senior Master Sergeant at Elmendorf. In 1980, Bill elected to turn down the final promotion and retire from the Air Force, as to accept the promotion would have meant a move to Illinois.
Bill moved his family to a newly built home in Eagle River. Bill finished raising his two sons as graduates from Chugiak High School, with college and careers that followed for both. After his sons left home, Bill was extremely active at the Masonic Lodge and was a proud charter member of the Eagle River Lodge at its inception. Bill and Carolyn enjoyed years of camping and fishing adventures in the Alaska outdoors, building lasting friendships with fellow campers. Bill finished his working career with the State of Alaska, retiring as a Title Specialist and Resource Officer in the Department of Natural Resources, Division of Land. He proudly completed his Bachelor of the Arts at Alaska Pacific University during this time.
Bill passed, at age 85, on Feb. 17, 2026, in Anchorage after a brief hospital stay. A short service for Bill will be held Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 11 a.m., at the Community Christian Church, 11529 Celestial Street in Eagle River Alaska. Bill was predeceased by his wife Carolyn on Aug. 5, 2021; and is survived by sons, Bruce and Greg; daughters-in-law, Michele and Jo; grandchildren, Lindsey, Steven and Scott; and great-grandchildren, Audrey and Tucker.
Michael Larrabee, born on June 21, 1992, passed away on April 9, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska. Legacy Funeral Homes is seeking Mr. Larrabee's family to assist in or make arrangements in seeing Mr. Larrabee to his final resting place. Please call Legacy Funeral Homes at 907-344-1497.
Marianne Paschall
May 11, 1953 -
Apr 2, 2026
Marianne Lindenfelser Paschall, 72, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska.
Marianne was born on May 11, 1953. She was an Alaska resident for 38 years, and dedicated over 30 years of her life working as a social worker with various nonprofit organizations. She had a passion for serving others and making a difference in her community.
Marianne's life was centered around what mattered most to her. First and foremost was her deep and personal relationship with Jesus Christ, which guided her throughout her life. She was a loving mother and grandmother, and she dedicated herself to her family—her three sons, Jeffrey, Tobin and Ian; and her 10 grandchildren, who brought her immense pride and joy. She also had a special place in her heart for her beloved dog, Maddy.
She will be remembered for her strong faith, her compassion for others and the warmth she brought to those around her.
Marianne is survived by her husband, Bill Paschall of Kentucky; sons, Jeffrey, Tobin and Ian; 10 grandchildren; and sister, Pat McClure.
A memorial service will be held on May 11, 2026, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Lazy Mountain Bible Church, 16005 East Shawn Drive, Palmer, AK 99645.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Assemblies of God Missions, https://ag.org/Donate; or to the Emrick Family at InterAct Ministries, https://interactministries.org/give.
She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Suzanne Warren Saxon, 80, passed away on Dec. 22, 2025. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 3 p.m., at The Foundry, 6239 B Street, Anchorage, AK 99518.
Shirley Mae Smith
Sep 16, 1937 -
Feb 21, 2026
Shirley M. Smith, 88, passed away peacefully on Feb. 21, 2026, in Prescott, Ariz. Shirley was born in Oklahoma on Sept. 16, 1937, to parents James and Edna Hightower. As a young teen, Shirley moved to Redding, Calif., where she graduated Anderson Union High School and married William "Bill" Smith.
Shirley was proud of the 30 years she and Bill lived in Alaska. Surviving both the travel up the Alcan with three small children and the 1964 Good Friday earthquake. Shirley was known for growing enormous vegetables, canning and baking bread. She loved Alaska, creating delicious meals from her garden, local fish and moose shared with family and friends at their Big Lake cabin. For years, Shirley managed rental properties and assisted Bill with his real estate company.
In their later years, Shirley and Bill relocated to Arizona. There they built a retirement home together, doing virtually all their own labor. Shirley was a dedicated caregiver to Bill as his health declined.
Shirley was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother and homemaker leaving behind three children: daughters, Brenda and Maryann (Todd) and son, Jim (Kim); eight grandchildren, Dean, Joe, Lauren, Ben, Shannon, Kailyn, Eric and Jacob; and 10 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her brother, Bob Hightower; her parents; and beloved husband of 61 years, Bill Smith.
A memorial service was held at Prescott National Cemetery on Friday, April 3, 2026.
Janet Marie Stiles
Dec 29, 1944 -
Mar 19, 2026
Janet M. Stiles, 81, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska. She was born on Dec. 29, 1944, in Woodbury, N.J., to Elbert and Mabel Gaventa. Her siblings Catherine, Ruth and Ed joined the family of six on their Repaupo family farm growing peaches, corn, tomatoes, asparagus and strawberries.
After beginning piano lessons at age 7, she began playing piano in church at age 10 and served as full-time organist and pianist for both Billingsport and Repaupo UMC at the age of 15. A 1963 graduate of Paulsboro High School, Janet pursued her passion for music at Gettysburg College before earning her bachelor's degree in music education from the University of Wisconsin. Her dedication to music became the cornerstone of her career and personal life. For 24 years, she inspired countless students as a classroom music teacher with the Anchorage School District. Earning Teacher of the Year finalist by the Anchorage Education Association in 1987-88 and in 1992, recognized for outstanding service by the Alaska Music Education Association as Music Educator in Alaska. Beyond the elementary classroom, Janet shared her talents as a staff accompanist for the UAA Music Department for two more decades.
Janet's musical gifts were not limited to teaching, they were also an integral part of her faith and art communities. With grace and devotion, her contributions extended into the faith community as she served as a choir and handbell director and accompanist for numerous local churches. Many will remember her dedication to accompanying NATS, directing ASD Honor Choir, co-directing the Arctic Spirit Handbell Choir, involvement with Regional and State Solo and Ensemble competitions, opera, community chorus and directing multiple adult and children's church choirs. She volunteered as an usher for the PAC for 30 years and loved to play at the Anchorage Pioneer Home and Marlow Manor on occasion. Through her gifts, she brought joy and inspiration to those around her.
Janet was known for her quiet humility, patience and generosity. She found joy in traveling, quilting and camping with her family—cherished moments that reflected her deep love for those closest to her. Her grandsons remember a grandma who made their favorite holiday cheese dip, kept a cookie jar full for sleep overs, sewn fleece clothes for lovies and special bed quilts to keep them warm. Her kindness, love and talent left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Janet is survived by her son, Brian Stiles; daughter, Wendy (Brian Taylor); grandsons, Lewis and Evan (Kayla); sisters, Catherine (Ed) and Ruth (Thom); brother, Ed (Marsha); as well as many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and their children. She was predeceased by her husband, Bruce; parents, Elbert and Mabel; sisters-in-law, Janet and Sandy; and in-laws, Carl and Katharine.
Janet's legacy is one of faith, musical gifts and an unwavering dedication to her family and service to her community. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her. Memorial donations can be made in Janet's name to support the Adult and Children's Music Ministry of St. John UMC. https://stjohnanchorage.org/. A memorial service is planned for May 2026 and will be live-streamed.
Al "Fritz" Tennant
May 25, 1939 -
Dec 25, 2025
Al "Fritz" Tennant was born on May 25, 1939, and passed away on Dec. 25, 2025.
Al lived a life rich in creativity, laughter and meaningful connections. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend and teacher. He was widely known in the Anchorage, Alaska, community as a gifted and respected potter. His artistic mind and distinctive style earned him a devoted following throughout the country. Whether at the wheel or in conversation, Al brought curiosity, humor, opinions and heart to everything he did.
While teaching in Homer, at ACC, and University of Alaska Anchorage, he inspired countless students who knew him for his patience, encouragement and quick wit, also crediting him for shaping their skills and their love of clay.
Throughout his life he'll be remembered for his sense of humor and generous spirit. His home and studio on Whidbey Island, Wash., was often a gathering place filled with love, laughter and outrageous story telling.
Al is survived by his devoted wife, Marianne Brabanski; son, Troy Tennant; daughters, Stacey Lindsay and Lori Gates; grandkids; and a wide circle of dear friends, students and admirers whose lives were enriched by knowing him. Al's hands shaped clay into beauty and he will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
There will be a celebration of life on July 25, 2026, at his home on Whidbey Island. For more information contact Marianne Brabanski at 360-929-9090.
Kathleen Marie Watkins
Jun 15, 1945 -
Mar 20, 2026
Kathleen Marie Watkins was born on June 15, 1945, in Lakewood, Ohio, and passed away on March 20, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska.
Kathleen was the daughter of John and Delores Watkins. She grew up in Milton, Wash., where she met her future husband, Eugene Warwick. They moved to Anchorage in summer 1993, and built a life rooted in faith, community and independence.
Nothing about Kathleen was ordinary. She faced life with determination and resilience. Though she lived with limitations, she was fiercely independent and self-sufficient, navigating the world in her own way with strength and dignity. She will be remembered for her perseverance and the quiet courage she showed every day.
Her faith was central to her life. Kathleen was devoted to God and found a loving community at Mountain City Church in Anchorage. She expressed her care for others through simple but meaningful acts, especially crocheting baby blankets in pink and blue for new babies in her church family, a gesture that brought comfort and joy to many.
Kathleen also found happiness in the things she loved most. She enjoyed playing bingo and was a dedicated fan of the Seattle Mariners, faithfully cheering them on.
She is survived by her brother, John Watkins and wife Rose; nephew, Douglas Henie and wife Cynthia; along with her nieces, extended family, church community and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Delores Watkins; and younger brother, Douglas Watkins.
A celebration of life will be held on April 30, 2026, at 11 a.m., at Mountain City Church in Anchorage.
Kathleen's life was a testament to independence and faith. She will be remembered with love by all who knew her.
