Roger Bliss

Aug 31, 1953 -

Aug 16, 2026

Roger Bliss was born in Auburn, N.Y., to Anna and Clarence Bliss. He grew up in Savannah, N.Y., surrounded by farms and learned how to work hard early.

He attended Buffalo State College and earned a bachelor's degree in industrial arts education. He was married in 1977, and he and his wife soon headed to Alaska. Roger taught in the Northwest Arctic School District for three years.

They moved to Wasilla, Alaska, in 1981, and joined the dog mushing community. Roger operated Mush Alaska dog sled tours in the winter and worked as a driver guide for Alaska Sightseeing/Cruise West in the summer.

After 10 years he decided it was time to start a new career and bought his first dump truck. He operated Wheel Dog Trucking in the valley for the next 30 years until his retirement in 2021.

One of his passions was riding his Harley Electra Glide. He was a founding member of the Motorcycle Tourers Forum and he traveled all over the country in his spare time. He cherished his rides and the many friends he made along the way.

Roger passed away peacefully at home at the age of 73. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ellen, of 49 years; son, Sean (Laura); and grandchildren, Paisley, Ahstyn, Mersaides and Mechai. A Celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, at the Bliss home.

Nancy J. (Gaida) Hawley

Jun 19, 1950 -

Aug 19, 2026

Nancy Hawley passed into the arms of her Heavenly Father on Aug. 19, 2026, in Altoona, Pa., surrounded by her family and loving husband Richard.

She was born June 19, 1950, to John and Caroline Gaida in the small coal mining town of Colver, Pa., where she attended elementary school and then attended and graduated from Central Cambria High School in Ebensburg, Pa., in 1968. After graduation she went to work for the FBI in Washington, D.C., while living in Arlington, Va. It was there, in 1970, that she met the love of her life, Richard Hawley, whom she married on March 24, 1973. During the next 20 years they moved numerous times while Richard was serving as a career Army Officer, finally settling in Eagle River, Alaska. As a result of these moves, she got the opportunity to see and enjoy the beauty, history and culture of, not only many parts of America, but also those of many other countries. During all those moves she continued her own Federal Government career retiring after over 37 years of service.

Early in their marriage Nancy wanted a dog, and they got a golden retriever. That started a lifetime of love for goldens, and for the rest of her life there was always one or more goldens in her home. They were not only pets and family members, but she also trained and showed them in various American Kennel Club events, winning numerous titles. She was also an outstanding cook and enjoyed experimenting with new recipes knowing that her husband was willing to try nearly anything. Friends and neighbors always looked forward to her dishes whenever she was attending any potluck meal or event. Nancy also developed a passion and expertise for sewing and quilting. She has made numerous quilts of various patterns and provided each of her siblings with some. In addition, she would make fleece dog beds and donate them to the local animal shelter. She was also an ardent volunteer and provided her skills to a number of nonprofit organizations. Her husband and her golden retrievers were her greatest source of pride and deepest joy.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Richard Hawley; sisters, Margaret Manion of Culpepper, Va., and Betty Ann Burry of Alden, N.Y.; brothers, Eugene Laskowski of Dripping Springs, Texas, and John Gaida of Colver, Pa.; golden retrievers, Riley and Brooke; and extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Caroline Gaida; and sister, Mary (Gaida) Hughes.

Her life was celebrated with a Memorial Mass at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, at Sisters of St. Ann Chapel, 1120 N Center Street in Ebensburg, followed by a short ceremony at the Holy Name Cemetery. Funeral arrangements by the Matevish and Matevish Funeral Home, Ebensburg.

Irvin Kreider

Apr 12, 1940 -

Aug 11, 2026

Irvin Lane Kreider II, known lovingly to family and friends as Irv, passed away on Aug. 11, 2026, in Bullhead City, Ariz., after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on April 12, 1940, in Kirkland, Wash., and lived a life marked by hard work, devotion to family and a generous spirit that touched everyone who knew him.

Irv was the son of the late Gladys Dorthy Woolcott and Irvin Lane Kreider Sr. He was preceded in death by beloved family members, including his sister, Shirley Reitzle and husband Bill; and sister, Rotha Marie MacMaster and husband Malcom.

He is survived by his wife, Diana Kreider; children, Irvin "Skeeter" Lane Kreider III and Katherina "Kathy" Dawn Miller; and a large and loving family that brought him great pride throughout his life.

Irv also left to cherish his memory his loving brothers and sister, Wallace "Wally" Hazael Kreider and wife Linda Beverly, James "Jimmy" Kreider and wife Mary, and Jennifer Kreider Kompkoff and husband Michael "Jug" Kompkoff (deceased); as well as brother-in-law, Leroy Kramer and wife Debra; sister-in-law, Rose Dunlap and husband Clark; and sister-in-law, Judy Hallmark and companion Larry Koehler.

He was a proud father and grandfather, and he treasured every moment spent with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. From his son Skeeter, he leaves behind Irvin Lane "Lane" Kreider IV, Johnathon Roy Kreider and wife Madison Marie, Savannah Marie Davey and husband Seth, and Dorthy Nicole Archer and husband Dakota Lee, along with six great-grandchildren who were a source of joy and delight to him. From his daughter Kathy, he is remembered by Jacqueline Diana Helgesen, Megan Jean Helgesen and Morgan Andrew Helgesen. Irv's family was the center of his world, and his love for them was steadfast and unconditional.

Irv served his country honorably in the United States Navy, where he trained as an electrician. His Navy service also included work on a minesweeper, reflecting both his skill and his willingness to serve in demanding roles. The Navy helped shape the strong work ethic and practical knowledge that would guide him throughout his life. Later, the FAA sent him to additional schooling for navigational and maintenance supervision, expanding his expertise and preparing him for the many responsibilities he would carry in the years ahead.

Throughout his career, Irv worked as an electrician in many settings and earned the respect of those who worked alongside him. He was employed at the NIKE site - a military missile site - and for General Electric as an electrician. His career with the Federal Aviation Administration took him to Cordova, Middleton Island, Summit, and finally Bethel, Alaska. In addition, Irv and his wife were owners of Kreider Rentals and ID Variety/Radio Shack DLR in Bethel. His business sense, reliability and determination were evident in all he did.

Irv belonged to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where his beliefs were reflected in the way he lived his life. He was generous, optimistic and selfless, and those qualities were evident in his relationships, his work and his everyday actions. He had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued, and he approached life with a steady kindness that left a lasting impression. He was a very generous man. Even from the very beginning he always took care of his mother.

In his free time, Irv enjoyed hunting, fishing, boating, gardening and spending time with family. He valued time with his family, and his happiest memories were made in the company of family and friends. Those who knew Irv will remember a man of strength, humility and honesty. He left behind a legacy of family, love and perseverance. His life was a testament to the value of hard work and the importance of family, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Funeral Services were held on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, at 2 p.m., at Legacy Heritage Chapel, 440 E. Klatt, Anchorage, AK 99515.

Daniel L. Kukowski

Jun 6, 2026

Longtime Alaska resident Daniel L. Kukowski passed away June 6, 2026, in Montrose, Colo.

Daniel was born the fourth of 12 children to Gordon and Edith Kukowski in Anchorage, Alaska, and remained there for much of his life. In his younger years he worked with his family at the goldmine in Chicken, Alaska, until adulthood.

Dan worked for many years as a truck driver, which he loved doing for Carlisle Trucking and Spenard Builders Supply. His last working years were with the Municipality of Anchorage in the Water & Wastewater Division.

After Dan retired, he visited family and friends in the Lower 48 and chose to settle in Montrose, living close to his sister Mary.

Dan genuinely enjoyed fishing and being on the water and sharing his great fishing tails!

He was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly; second wife, Alice; parents, Gordon and Edith Kukowski; and siblings, David, Judy, James and baby sister.

Danny's family held a private graveside service at the Anchorage Cemetery where he was laid to rest peacefully with his family.

Peace of Christ be with you brother; you are finally home. We will miss you.

Stephen Kurth

Mar 20, 1942 -

Jun 21, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Stephen Douglas Kurth on June 21, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska, after a hard-fought battle with cancer. He was 84 years old. Stephen was a devoted life partner, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle and friend who was deeply loved by his family and the many people whose lives he touched.

Stephen was born on March 20, 1942, in Ackley, Iowa, to Irene (Lockman) Kurth and Julius Kurth. He was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Jay Kurth. He is survived by his brother, Michael Kurth; sisters, Susan Swart and Debra Kurth; four daughters, Ruth, Beth, Bobbie Jean (Molle) and Dominique; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and his beloved life partner of 36 years, Grace Frier.

Stephen married Patricia (Thompson) Kurth of Ackley, and together they began raising their family. After earning his degree in civil engineering, they moved their family to Alaska, where Stephen began his career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He later enjoyed a long career with the Federal Aviation Administration before pursuing commercial fishing—a lifelong dream he had shared with his father.

A passionate outdoorsman, Stephen passed his love of Alaska's wilderness on to his children and countless friends. He built a cabin near Talkeetna, where family and friends gathered to enjoy camping, fishing, hunting and creating lasting memories. He also cherished traveling the Alaska Highway and exploring the Lower 48 with Grace and their beloved border collies, Bonnie and Clyde.

Stephen's deep appreciation for the natural world extended beyond recreation. Throughout his life, he supported the protection and preservation of wildlife and their habitats, reflecting his enduring respect for the beauty of Alaska and the outdoors.

Stephen lived a life filled with adventure. His kindness, generosity and adventurous spirit will be remembered by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever held in the hearts of those who loved him.

Monica Lord-Wolf

Aug 5, 1960 -

Aug 10, 2026

Monica Lord-Wolf (Ilgwa'), 66, passed away in the early morning of Monday, Aug. 10, 2026. Born in Sitka, Alaska, on Aug. 5, 1960, to Nellie and Gilbert Lord Jr., Monica was born into the Kwaashk'i Kwaan clan and the Dis Hit clan house.

Raised in Sitka, Monica graduated from Sitka High School, where she excelled academically, participated on the drill team and was an active member of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Throughout her life, she remained deeply rooted in her culture and community, serving as an engaged member of the Alaska Native Sisterhood and a passionate advocate for cultural and spiritual wellness.

Following in the compassionate footsteps of her mother, Nellie, Monica's heart and home were always open to those in need. Whether family or friends were facing physical or spiritual pain, or navigating financial hardship, Monica met them with open arms. She was exceptionally resourceful, guiding countless individuals toward healing and stability by connecting them with essential community services and support.

Monica met Kane Wolf, and together they had three children. She was a constant source of wisdom through life's uncertainties and grief, as well as a joyous champion of life's victories—always the loudest voice cheering on the youngest family members as they celebrated their own milestones.

Monica is survived by her children, Kristofer and Suzanne; cherished grandchildren, Grace Wolf, Tyler Wolf, Seth Shelver, Adriel Wolf, Oliver Wolf, Emily Wolf and Ivy Shelver; and siblings, Vik Lord Irwin, Arleen Henry, Katie Lord-Fraker, Tomi Phillip, Dorothy Lord-Matthew and Richard Lord. She is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Gilbert Lord III; and beloved son, Nicholas.

Funeral services are scheduled for Friday, Sept. 4, 2026, at 1 p.m., at Legacy Heritage Chapel at Angelus, 440 E Klatt Road in Anchorage, Alaska. A potluck-style reception will immediately follow the service at the chapel. Family and friends are warmly invited to join in sharing food and memories as we celebrate Monica's life.

A service in Yakutat, Alaska, to lay Monica to rest will be scheduled for summer 2027, with details announced at a later date.

Jilda Rosa Monsen

Jun 9, 1930 -

Jul 16, 2026

Jilda "Jerry" Rosa Monsen (Romano), 96, died on July 16, 2026, in her sleep at the Pioneer Home in Anchorage, Alaska. She was born in Brooklyn, N.Y., on June 9, 1930, to Giovanni and Mary Romano (Calise). Jerry grew up in Brooklyn with her two older half-siblings and two younger sisters. She was the valedictorian of her graduating class at Jamaica High School in 1949, and then graduated from the Norwegian Hospital School of Nursing in 1952. Along with a friend from nursing school, Jerry applied to the Public Health Service and was assigned to the PHS Hospital in Kanakanak, Alaska. In early 1953, she and her friend took a train across the country to Seattle and flew to Alaska. During her time in Kanakanak, she met a dashing bush pilot from Naknek. Her second year with the PHS was at the Seward facility, where that pilot flew in to propose. They married in 1955, and lived together in Naknek, Fairbanks and, since 1964, Anchorage, Alaska.

Jerry stayed home with her children when they were young, and as they got older she continued her nursing career, working around her children's schedules. She worked at St. Joseph Hospital in Fairbanks as well as Providence Hospital and Alaska Native Service Hospital, both in Anchorage. After retiring in the mid-1980s, she kept busy working in her beautiful garden, caring for her grandchildren, volunteering at the NICU and knitting hats for donation to those experiencing homelessness.

Jilda is preceded in death by her husband, Melvin Johan Monsen Sr.; and two half-siblings, Madeline Santinello and Joe Romano.

Jilda is survived by her daughter, Susan Monsen (Mark Berry); son, Melvin Monsen (Lisa); grandchildren, Sarah Berry, Matthew Berry and Elizabeth Strong (Homer); great-granddaughter, Daria Feckla Strong; sisters, Jean Place and Anna Natan (Tom); and many nephews, nieces and other relatives and friends.

Memorials may be sent to: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage through the Healthy Kids Fund at the Healthy Alaska Natives Foundation - this specific fund directly supports the Pediatric unit, PICU and NICU programs - or Catholic Social Services, 4600 Debarr Road, Suite 201, Anchorage, AK 99508.

Montalene Murray

Feb 23, 1938 -

Aug 23, 2026

In Loving Memory of Montalene Francene (Michaud) Murray

Montalene "Monty" Murray passed away on Aug. 23, 2026, in Homer, Alaska, exactly six months after celebrating her 88th birthday. Born on Feb. 23, 1938, in Custer, S.D., Monty lived a vibrant life filled with deep affection for the people and world around her. She was known for her sharp wit and quick laughter.

Driven by an adventurous spirit, Monty and her beloved husband, John Daniel "Dan" Murray, moved to Alaska in 1963 on what was meant to be a two-year contract with the FAA. They both came to love the state, stretching that stay into a lifetime of adventure. Together, they raised their four daughters while moving across Alaska, making lifelong friends everywhere they went. Monty was preceded in death by Dan in 2010, with whom she shared 51 years of marriage and countless cherished memories.

Monty was an avid reader, loved to garden and thoroughly enjoyed painting ceramics. Above all, she loved nothing more than gathering with friends and family to share a story and a laugh.

Her legacy of love lives on through her daughters: Lori Murray and Patty Murray of Homer, Mary (Bill) Barnhart of Mount Sterling, Ky., and Sharon (Mark) Morganti of Bothell, Wash. She is also survived by her granddaughter, Katherine Barnhart; and grandsons, Matthew Barnhart, Giovanni Morganti and Vincent Morganti. She will be profoundly missed and fondly remembered by them, their families and her many friends.

To honor her life and wishes, Lori, Patty, Mary and Sharon will gather with their families in Alaska in summer 2027 to celebrate Monty's life, share memories and honor the beautiful legacy she leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Homer Senior Center, 3935 Svedlund Street, Homer, AK 99603, to support the community where she spent her final years; https://secure.qgiv.com/for/boardchallenge.

Janis J. Plume

Jul 21, 1960 -

Jul 28, 2026

Janis Juris Plume, formerly of Anchorage, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026, following a brave struggle with the complications of heart failure.

Janis was born at a U.S. Forest Service lookout post in Grangeville, Idaho. He was the son of Maija Plume (nee Slesers) and Ventis Plume. Ventis's work for the Forest Service took his family all over the country, from Grangeville to Western Maryland to the Columbia River valley and, eventually, to the majestic landscape of Alaska, the state that Janis called home for 51 years.

Janis arrived in Anchorage with his family in summer 1974. He graduated from East High School in the class of 1978. It was during high school that Janis first met Jorgia Marie Bergman, who would eventually become his wife.

After an adventuresome decade in Juneau, Alaska, Janis returned to Anchorage in 1987. He enrolled at UAA, majoring in journalism, and rekindled his acquaintance with Jorgia. The two were married on July 29, 1989. After graduating from UAA, Janis began what would become a rewarding, decades-long career in advertising and media.

In 1993, Janis and Jorgia welcomed their only child, a son, Douglas. Being a father to Douglas was the thing that made Janis the most proud. Another of his proudest and most lasting achievements was in finding sobriety and succeeding in recovery. Janis found a supportive and lasting community in AA, and gave of his time and talent in service work whenever he could.

Janis will be remembered for his wit, fine sense of humor, adventuresome spirit and his love of his family. Janis is survived by his wife, Jorgia; son, Douglas; and sisters, Mara Gano and Inta O'Brien.

A celebration of life for Janis will be held on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the Kincaid Chalet, 6998 Raspberry Road in Anchorage.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Janis's memory may be made to the American Heart Association or to Life Donor Services Alaska.

Suzette Marie "Sue" Stewart

Jul 10, 2026

On July 10, 2026, Suzette Marie (Warren) Stewart, age 66, passed away unexpectedly at her mother's home in Jennings, Mich., while visiting on vacation from Alaska. She was born on Feb. 18, 1960, in Lake City, Mich.

Suzette, known to everyone as Sue, was a gentle loving soul who was truly one-of-a-kind. She was always positive, had such a loving heart and always found the good in every person in any situation. Her loving spirit and kind heart will live with us always and memories of her will be cherished forever. Sue's passion was handmade crafting; she was an incredibly talented artist and created the most amazing pieces. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. She loved and adored her husband, Michael, of 31 years, and their beloved dog Loki, her five children and nine grandchildren. Sue genuinely will be greatly missed.

Sue is survived by her husband, Michael Stewart of Alaska; children, Darylynn Warren of Alaska, Miranda (Kurt) LiPoetet of Washington, Tabatha (Carl) Curson of Washington, Angela (Chase) Conway of Washington, and Joseph Hines of Washington; grandchildren, William, Jesse and Shyanna, Luna, Jayley, Skylar, Kora, Cassandra and Tucker; mother, Nancy Gibson of Michigan; and siblings, Cathleen Warren of Michigan, Glenn Gibson of Texas, Gail Gibson of Michigan, Candy Lynn Gibson of Oklahoma, and David (Michelle) Gibson of Michigan.

Mason Ryan Stiglich

Jul 19, 2011 -

Aug 15, 2026

Mason's life was about adventure, connection and shared laughter.

Mason Ryan Stiglich, 15, of Eagle River, Alaska, died on Aug. 15, 2026, following a tragic motor vehicle incident.

Born in Anchorage, Alaska, on July 19, 2011, Mason packed a remarkable amount of life, laughter and adventure into his 15 years. He loved having fun and, even more, sharing that fun with the people around him. A natural jokester, Mason delighted in making others laugh— whether he was telling a funny story, making one of his memorable funny faces or finding a way to turn an ordinary moment into an adventure.

Mason's friends will remember him as someone who knew how to make life interesting. Among some of their their treasured memories are his rather unique culinary creations involving Cheetos and milk and a laughter-filled adventure involving a dirt pile. These are the stories that will be told again and again—with smiles, laughter and perhaps a few tears—because they are so unmistakably Mason.

Mason loved mountain biking and enjoyed sharing his passion with others through videos of his adventures, often set to music by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. He also had a deep love of flying. Becoming a pilot was his lifelong dream and, even at 15, it was a dream he was actively pursuing. Through hard work, countless hours on a flight simulator and a desire to continually learn more about aviation, Mason was already working toward the future he envisioned for himself. Whether on two wheels, dreaming of taking to the skies or simply spending time with people he cared about, Mason embraced life with curiosity, humor and a sense of adventure — and he loved bringing others along for the ride.

Mason leaves behind his parents, Jared and Billie Stiglich; brother, Caleb; and an extended family who loved him dearly. He also leaves behind his beloved dogs, Leroy and Lambeau; and his cat, Woodson, all of whom held a special place in his life.

Mason's family extends its heartfelt gratitude to the members of the Anchorage Fire Department and to the physicians, nurses and staff of Alaska Native Medical Center for the extraordinary care and compassion shown to Mason and his family.

Fifteen years was far too little time for a life filled with this much personality, adventure, humor and love. Mason leaves behind stories that will be told again and again, adventures that will not be forgotten and laughter that will continue to echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Helga Wiebe

Jul 18, 1941 -

Aug 22, 2026

Helga Wiebe, age 85, of Cantwell, Alaska, passed away on Aug. 22, 2026. Helga was Ahtna Athabaskan, and Cantwell was always home to her. She was a true outdoorswoman at heart, most at home out on the land. Throughout her life, hunting and fishing were among her greatest joys. Kind, gentle and quick with a laugh, Helga had a wonderful sense of humor and was known for being a sharp card player, always ready for a game.

She was the beloved wife of Ray Wiebe, and loved Ray's daughter, Roblyn, dearly. Helga and Ray loved to travel together, taking the motorhome back and forth to California and journeying across the country, from Dollywood to Elvis Presley's Graceland to the country music of Nashville, Tenn. Along the way, she made friends far and wide, and was loved by so many.

Helga will be remembered fondly by her family and all who knew her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and memories that will be cherished by those she touched throughout her life.

A burial was held on Saturday, Aug. 29, 2026, at 12 p.m., in Cantwell. A potluck followed at the Yedatene Na' Community Center.

Tsin'aen.

Ronnie Wilson

Feb 11, 1954 -

Aug 24, 2026

Ron "RW" Wilson was born to Harold Wilson and Velda (Baker) Wilson in Ord, Neb., on Thursday, Feb. 11, 1954. He passed away early morning on Monday, Aug. 24, 2026, surrounded by his wife of 43 years. Ron succumbed to mounting conditions after a long and courageous battle with early onset dementia and Parkinson's disease.

Ron spent four decades of his life living his values and developing his character working as part of the Doyon Drilling family.

He is survived by his wife, Belinda Jane Wilson; and three sons, Curtis Wilson, Jake Wilson and Ryan Wilson and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Calvin.

Funeral arrangements will be coordinated through Kehl's Legacy Funeral Home. A celebration of life will commence on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, at 12 p.m., at Alaska Native Heritage Center, 8800 Heritage Center Drive, Anchorage, AK 99504, in the gathering room.

At the family's request, feel free to share any meaningful mementos of Ron - i.e. photos, videos, written memories - or words for the family via email to lifeofronniewilson@gmail.com.