James McCaslin Brown

Sep 29, 1938 -

Feb 12, 2026

Dr. Jim McCaslin Brown, 87, passed away in his sleep at home on Feb. 12, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska.

Born with a deep curiosity for the natural world and an enduring commitment to education and community, Dr. Brown's life was marked by academic excellence, professional dedication and vibrant personal passions.

Jim began his academic journey at Fairbanks High School and quickly distinguished himself as a scholar. He earned scholarships to attend the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where he pursued his love of science. His academic path led him to the University of Alaska Fairbanks, where he earned bachelor's and master's degrees in geology, and then to the University of Wisconsin with a Ph.D. in structural geology. His doctoral work included an extensive original dissertation on the structural geology of the Canadian Grenville Front that contributed meaningfully to his field.

Professionally, Jim dedicated his career to engineering geology. He worked in the private sector for both international and Alaska firms, with extensive field work on the trans-Alaska pipeline and many projects in rural Alaska. He was a lifelong member of the Geological Society of America. His expertise and passion for teaching led him into academia, where he became known for his work with several institutions including the University of Alaska Anchorage, the University of Wisconsin, Indiana University, Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis and Alaska Pacific University. At APU, he retired as Professor Emeritus—a recognition of his national professional status and testament to his lasting impact on students and colleagues alike. Even after retirement, Jim continued to mentor graduate students as a counseling professor for advanced degrees.

In addition to his many pursuits, Jim served in the U.S. Army Reserve for eight years beginning in 1963. After boot camp at Fort Ord, Calif., he served in Wisconsin and Indiana in the Judge Advocate's Corp. He was elected to the School Board for the Valdez School District, coached Little Dribbler's basketball and one of the first soccer teams in Wasilla, Alaska. Actively supportive of the Iditarod, he donated historic family photos and items to the University of Alaska Fairbanks Archives.

Beyond his academic and professional achievements, Jim was deeply engaged in music and athletics. A lifelong flute and piccolo player, he was a founding member and president of the Anchorage Community Concert Band. He also performed with enthusiasm in the Anchorage Pep Band—also known as the Front Row Seats Band—bringing joy to audiences through music.

Jim's love for sports was equally enduring. He played hockey for the University of Alaska Fairbanks Polar Bears through college and remained active in local leagues throughout his life. In Anchorage, he skated with various teams including the Flaming A's old men's league, where he was affectionately known as "Brownie." He was an avid hockey fan and always a season ticket holder for the Anchorage Aces and UAA men's hockey.

He is survived by his wife Gladys Brown; blended family of daughters, Robin Riendl (Paul) and Shelly Brown (George); former wife, Dean Brown; and sons, Jimmy Duplantis (Pam) and Johnny Duplantis; and beloved granddaughter, Jessica Duplantis.

Dr. Jim McCaslin Brown leaves behind a legacy defined by intellectual rigor, artistic expression, athletic spirit and service to others. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to those who follow in his footsteps.

Edward Chapman

Sep 19, 1956 -

Jan 20, 2026

Longtime Alaskan Edward Earl Chapman passed away on Jan. 20, 2026, at his home in Anchorage, Alaska. He was 69. Ed had a long career in Alaska as a journeyman electrician and was an IBEW member for 40 years.

The Chapman family arrived in Anchorage in May 1961 and settled in the brand new West Turnagain neighborhood. Parents Ruth and Larry had four children: Robert, Linda, Christine and Ed. The Chapmans enjoyed hunting, fishing and everything Alaska had to offer.

Ed graduated from West High in Anchorage. He later received technical training to become a union lineman and electrician. He worked on many projects all over the state from 1983-2014.

Ed is survived by his brother, Bob; sisters, Linda and Chris; plus many kids and grandkids. He will be missed by many others.

Ed lived a simple uncomplicated life. He enjoyed gardening, nature, cross-country skiing and walking. He was well-liked by all who knew him and was quick to help others in need.

The family will have a memorial/celebration of life in summer 2026.

Agnes Gant

Nov 1, 1930 -

Feb 3, 2026

Anchorage, Alaska, resident Agnes E. Gant, 95, died early Feb. 3, 2026, at Marlow Manor. A memorial/celebration of life is scheduled for 2-4 p.m., on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at the Anchorage Senior Center, 1300 E 19th Avenue in Anchorage. Agnes will be buried at Fort Richardson National Cemetery at a later date, with the family attending.

Mrs. Gant was born on Nov. 1, 1930, to Dean and Sarah Watkins in Helena, Mont. She lived with her family in Butte, Mont., until she married "Sam" Preston Gant in 1951. Agnes worked at a bank in Butte, while her husband was in Korea, in 1953. After he got back, she went with him to his duty stations in Fort Rucker, Ala.; Kaohsiung, Taiwan; Bethel, Alaska; and other Army bases in the Lower 48 until 1968, when he retired from the Army and they moved back to Alaska and settled in Anchorage. She then worked for Groceries Wholesale in the accounting department, was a secretary for an Insurance Agent and finally for the State of Alaska, as a travel clerk – her favorite job.

Agnes is survived by her daughter, Sally Gant of Fairbanks, Alaska; sister, Bonnie Edwards of Butte; sister, Sally Dyas of Parker, Colo.; and sister-in-law, Alice Watkins of Seattle, Wash.; five grandchildren, Molly, Katie, Peter, Jack and William; six great-grandchildren, Taylor, Sebastion, Elizabeth, Lily, Ezra and Lucy; and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorial donations to your favorite charity. Agnes was cremated by Janssen's Funeral Home.

Lynda Jo Hyce

Feb 22, 1943 -

Feb 15, 2026

Lynda passed peacefully on Feb. 15, 2026, at Sutter Medical Center downtown near her apartment in Sacramento, Calif., where she lived with her daughter Ronni. Her son Rick was with her, having just finished a game of Five Crowns – that she, of course, won.

Born in Phoenix during a world war, Lynda was brought up in the friendly and peaceful small town of Yuma, Ariz., by loving parents Ralph and Evelyn Phillips and big sister Donna. The family relocated to Jerome, Idaho, when Lynda and Donna were in high school, where they both started their families. Lynda moved to Seattle, Wash., in the mid-60s, kicking off the first of her illustrious careers, as a computer programmer at a little start-up eventually called IBM.

Lynda had two loves in her life besides her family: fulfilling work and travel. Much of the time these two were combined: oil spill work in Prince William Sound and Siberia, Russia; consulting on the isle of Cyprus; water projects in Florida and Lake Tahoe; and pipeline work on the north slope of Alaska, to name a few. In addition she made her mark as an environmentalist and safety expert in Watford City, N.D., and Twin Falls, Idaho. She was a life-long learner who got her bachelors from Sierra Nevada College in 2012, and her masters from Vermont Law School in 2014.

Her travels included extensive trips by rail and trail in Europe. Lynda walked and hiked for 10 days across the south of the Czech Republic with her daughter Terri and best friend Jacqui. She even completed the full Camino de Santiago Trail in France and Spain in 2014, at the age of 71, with her grandson Lucas.

Her living family celebrates her wonderful life! Lynda is survived by her sister, Donna and Dan Suhr; son, Rick and Cece Hyce of Wasilla, Alaska; daughter, Terri and John Lewis of Portland, Ore.; daughter, Ronni Hyce of Sacramento; and nine grandchildren, Ryan, Jessica, Cody, Riley, Joey, Zach, Reno, Lucas and Lily. Lynda's pride and joy were her six great-grandkids, and her last days were spent joyfully showing nurses at the hospital pictures of them! The family warmly thanks the nursing staff of SMC for their superb attention and care.

The family will have a private celebration.

Craig Johnson

Nov 22, 1953 -

Feb 26, 2026

Craig Johnson passed away peacefully at home, at the age of 72, surrounded by his family. Born in Kermit, Texas, Craig attended Oklahoma State University where he played football - Go Cowboys! - before driving to Alaska in 1977 with plans to work on the new pipeline; he did not make it past Anchorage after meeting his future wife, Nancy. They were married for 47 years and his respect and adoration for her was noted by all.

Craig spent his early years in Alaska working in radio, starting the KYMG station, and later as the General Manager of Morrison Communications. He also served in Juneau, Alaska, in multiple roles, most recently as a State Representative for South Anchorage for 12 years. He often expressed he wanted only to leave Alaska in better shape than he found it. In retirement, Craig was able to spend time with his two grandchildren, whom he adored beyond measure.

Craig built an Alaskan family that extended well past his blood relations. From those he met during his first days in Alaska to his daughters' friends who had the benefit of a surrogate dad, he deeply valued these relationships and we are all better for having him in our lives. Craig will be remembered by those who truly knew him for his sense of humor and his fierce love of his family.

Craig is preceded in death by his parents, Clyde and LaVon; and three brothers, Jerry, Duke and Bruce.

Craig is survived by his wife, Nancy; daughters, Erin and Jenna; son-in-law, Josh; and grandchildren, Grace and Hunter.

A celebration of life will be held on March 7, 2026, at Legacy Heritage Chapel at Angelus, 440 E. Klatt Road in Anchorage, starting at 10 a.m.

Caroline Sue Ratcliffe

Aug 11, 1940 -

Feb 27, 2026

Caroline Sue (Cox) Ratcliffe died on Feb. 27, 2026.

Caroline was born in Columbus, Ohio. She was preceded in death by older half-brother, Jay; two older brothers, Roger and Howard; and younger sister, Martha. She was a Girl Scout and enjoyed playing the clarinet in the marching band. In 1958, she came to Alaska with her older brother, Roger, and his wife, Norma. She attended college at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. She spent the school year on campus and worked summers at Denali Park. She met her husband, Layne Ratcliffe, the first week at school playing pinochle where Layne winked at her. For their first date Layne took her rabbit hunting. He continued to impress her by flying to visit her when she worked summers at Denali Park.

After earning a degree in home economics, she and Layne were married and started their family. They raised their family in the Alaskan lifestyle: camping, flying to their cabin and fishing in Seward. When the kids were older, she worked for the Anchorage School District Food Service. Caroline enjoyed sewing, cooking and gardening, and always had a dog by her side.

She and Layne made the most of retirement, traveling and visiting friends and family. She and her husband went everywhere together until he passed. Caroline enjoyed visiting relatives, attending church, going out with friends from the Winsome Widows group and talking to her sister Mary. Caroline was a warm, happy and devoted person who always had a smile. She will be missed by all.

She is survived by her sister, Mary (Curtis) Simon; children, Dale (Debbie) Ratcliffe, Ken (Susan) Ratcliffe, both of Anchorage, Alaska, and June (Colin) Miller of Eugene, Ore.; grandchildren, Jamie (Lindsey) Miller, Kelsey (Reid) Davis, Kristen (Dan) Taylor, Trenton Ratcliffe, Aaron Miller, Casey Miller and Heidi Ratcliffe; and great-grandchildren, Theodore Taylor, Logan Davis, Naomi Taylor, Levi Davis, Mabel Taylor and Brooke Davis.

A celebration of life service will be held on March 7, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Jewel Lake Parish, 3833 Strawberry Road in Anchorage.

Theodore "Chip" Thoma

Sep 29, 2025

"The only way to deal with an unfree world is to become so absolutely free that your very existence is an act of rebellion." —Albert Camus

Theodore "Chip" Thoma, 77, passed away on Sept. 29, 2025, at Wildflower Court after a long illness and an extraordinary, joyfully mischievous life of rebellion.

Chip grew up in Ohio and Washington, D.C., immersed in the politics of the 1960s. His father worked for U.S. Attorney General Robert Kennedy in an organized crime task force, inspiring Chip to become a lifelong activist and political organizer. While Chip pursued the lofty values of the original Kennedys, he relentlessly employed the tactics of his '60s youth cohort.

Chip had an eclectic career: the US Marines boot camp, as a Teamster, a political appointee in the administrations of two Alaskan governors, citizen lobbyist at the Alaska legislature and cartoonist, journalist and writer. He never planned out his professional pathway, but opportunistically took advantage of events and opportunities.

Chip's had a Zelig-like quality of always being in the scene when something historic was happening. For example, he talked his way into Woodstock by convincing the staff that he had electrical experience, securing a position as a stagehand, a free pass for the concert and even a fleeting cameo in the movie that he relied on prove his story and win countless bets. And when the historic trans-Alaska pipeline was launched, Chip showed up working as a labor organizer pitted against big oil, leading him down a path that became a major part of his life's work.

Having seen the overwhelming power of industries exploiting Alaska's resources, Chip volunteered as a citizen lobbyist in the state legislature for over 30 years.

Woefully outmanned by the dozens of oil, mining and timber industry representatives, Chip was never outgunned. He was loved by many, not all, legislators and staff - some anonymously - for his willingness to speak the truth that many others were not willing or able to do. Though he was often dealing with deadly serious business, such as the aftermath of the Exxon Valdez oil spill, Chip managed to keep everyone laughing with his language, tactics and irreverence.

Chip had an endless series of epic adventures. One of his most memorable was the purchase and operation of the M/V Grizzly Bear, a 58-foot wooden boat he used for transporting freight and people around Southeast Alaska. He used it to support youth as part of Adventure Bound program, but his nautical career was particularly focused on helping construct a lodge in remote Windham Bay, shanghaiing various friends and others into helping with the work. Tongue-in-cheek, he sometimes referred to himself as the Mayor of Windham Bay, lobbying on behalf of the Windham Bay Homeowners Association. Everyone knew he was the only resident and member, but nobody disputed his authority.

Part of Chip's interest in Windham Bay was to provide a platform for his long, tireless advocacy on behalf of the Tongass National Forest. As a tireless opponent of wasting the magnificent old growth timber, Chip took special delight in being the very first person to inform the leading timber lobbyist that his company's logging contract had been revoked by the Clinton Administration.

Chip was a particular thorn in the side of the cruise ship industry, both in the legislature and at the ballot box. As president of Responsible Cruising in Alaska and working with a handful of other volunteers, Chip helped organize a successful statewide ballot initiative that placed a $50 head tax on Alaska-bound cruise ship passengers, providing millions of dollars for harbor and passenger improvements throughout Alaska. Outspent by over $2 million industry dollars against barely $30,000, Chip's campaign may have set a record for the most improbable victory ever in an Alaskan public referendum.

For this work and many other things, in 2010 Chip received the Celia Hunter Award for Outstanding Volunteer Contributions from the Alaska Conservation Foundation. Never was an award more deserved. Chip was, by acclaim, the "people's choice" a standout even among Alaska's exceptional environmental and social justice community.

What most of will never forget was how Chip employed humor and ridicule against hypocrisy and injustice, more effectively than Han Solo's light saber. His jokes and pranks, too numerous to recount, were the stuff of legend. Any time his friends, admirers and even enemies got together, they would share stories about Chip's hilarious exploits. We still do.

Accordingly, Chip's signature laugh was a force by itself, thunderous, piercing and utterly disarming. But make no mistake, everywhere Chip would go, people sought his wisdom and advice. Wherever he was, whatever the need, Chip was always on the job.

Chip's family and friends will miss his many funny and mostly true stories and his spontaneous approach to life. Alaska and the world will miss his good deeds and kind, generous spirit.

Chip is survived by his brother, Greg Thoma of Vermont; sisters, Jan Kerr (Patrick) of Maryland, Geri Thoma (Charles Lemert) of Connecticut, and Meg Luby (Clay) of Rhode Island; eight nieces and nephews; Sean Greenough, his surrogate son; and many friends in Juneau, Alaska, and around the country.

A memorial celebration of Chip's life will be held in Juneau the afternoon of June 27, 2026, at the Sandy Beach Picnic Shelter.

Keith Martin Westfall

Oct 20, 1951 -

Feb 8, 2026

Keith Martin Westfall, 74, of Big Lake, died on Feb. 8, 2026, surrounded by family in the home he built more than 40 years ago. As desired, he "did it (his) way" and stayed home until his time was up after battling COPD and other ailments for several years.

Keith was born at Fort Knox, Ky., on Oct. 20, 1951, the second child of William and Mary Westfall. Before his first birthday, the family moved to Alaska, where his father was stationed at Fort Richardson. Keith grew up in Anchorage and the Matanuska Valley, including in Turnagain-by-the-Sea, on the family homestead near Knik, in children's homes in Palmer and in East Anchorage. He attended East High School.

Keith joined the Navy in 1970, and served 43 months in the Pacific during the Vietnam War refueling planes on the USS Constellation, the USS Coral Sea, and also serving on the USS Ogden.

He married LaDonna Bantz on Aug. 12, 1978, and they settled in Big Lake, where they built a home and raised their two children, Kortnie and Kaleb. Keith worked as a wildland firefighter, as a general contractor, building many homes in Anchorage and the Mat-Su, and for the Bureau of Land Management.

Because he would never let his job define him, he most enjoyed his free time: sled dog racing, playing men's league hockey, snowmachining, hunting, listening to Aces games on the radio and having backyard barbecues. He staked and built a cabin retreat at Jan Lake near Lake Louise, and was a longtime participant in Wolfpack events. Closer to home, he spent time grooming trails in Big Lake. He was a backyard hockey rink-builder, chauffeur, spectator and sometimes fill-in-coach during his kids' youth hockey tenure.

Outside of snowmachining and hockey, Keith was a serial hobbyist, to include ham radio operating, woodworking, wood turning, map orienteering, reloading and more.

In their later years, Keith and LaDonna bought a motorhome, and went on many Alaska adventures before her death in 2015. He continued adventuring, with trips to the cabin on snowmachine and wheeler, going on his last RV adventure 4th of July weekend 2025.

Keith is preceded in death by his father, Bill; mother, Mary; stepfather, Walter Smith; older brother, Karl; and wife, LaDonna. He is survived by his children, Kortnie (Jake) Horazdovsky of Chugiak, and Kaleb of Dillingham; grandchildren, Anna, Michael, Martin and Julia Horazdovsky of Chugiak; brother, Kurt of Wasilla; sisters, Katy Neher of Anchorage and Kristi Jacobs of Salem, Ore.; and many nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and -nephews across the country.

The family will hold a celebration of life in summer 2026.

Jack Windsor

Feb 18, 1936 -

Feb 20, 2026

Jack Windsor of Anchorage, Alaska, passed away peacefully on Feb. 20, 2026, two days after celebrating his 90th birthday.

Jack and his beloved wife, Diane, made Alaska their home in 1962, building a life rooted in faith, family and community. Jack and Diane were married for 69 wonderful years, a testament to their enduring love and devotion. They raised three children, Greg Windsor, Laura (Windsor) Dagon and Jeff Windsor, and were blessed with two granddaughters, Brittni Renner and Brielle Dagon.

For 20 years, he proudly served his country, retiring as a Master Sergeant in the United States Air Force. Following his military career, he worked in sales, where his friendly nature and easy conversation earned him the respect and friendship of many.

Known by all as kind and helpful, Jack had a wonderful sense of humor and loved to make others laugh. He enjoyed fellowship and hospitality at his Catholic church and valued the friendships he formed there. In retirement, he stayed busy working on projects around their home. He loved bowling and was known for being a winner at the card table.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on March 7, 2026, at 1 p.m., at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Anchorage.

Shirley Ann Wineberg Moe

Jan 20, 1932 -

Feb 23, 2026

Shirley, born on Jan. 20, 1932, in Minnesota, passed away peacefully on Feb. 23, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska, at the age of 94.

On Nov. 27, 1952, Shirley married Gene Axel Moe in Minnesota. After earning her teaching degree from Mankato University, Minnesota, she joined Gene in Anchorage in May 1953. It was a decision that marked the beginning of a life devoted to building — building a family, a business, a church and a lasting foundation in Alaska. She instantly fell in love with Alaska and its breathtaking beauty and abundant wildlife.

Shirley began her professional career teaching at Lake Otis Elementary School before founding M & M Contractors with Gene in 1959. She was a disciplined and determined businesswoman, a true partner in building something that would endure. She believed in hard work. She did not seek attention, but she expected strength — from herself and from those around her.

Her love was fierce, though often quiet. It was expressed not in grand displays, but in steadfast loyalty, protective care and unwavering commitment. She stood firm for what she believed in and for those she loved.

Shirley was deeply grounded in her Christian faith and was instrumental in the founding of Baxter Road Bible Church. She also devoted significant time and leadership to Sons of Norway and the building of Viking Hall. She helped lay foundations that would continue long after her — foundations of faith, heritage and conviction.

Shirley and Gene raised four children: Karl (Vicki) Moe, Jane Moe Newby, Heidi (Tony) Coop and Eric Moe. She also leaves behind her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She taught by example that faith is lived, not merely spoken. That strength is quiet but immovable. That love is proven through loyalty and endurance.

A celebration of life will be held at Son's of Norway Viking Hall in Anchorage at 4 p.m., on April 24, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Sons of Norway Youth Scholarship or Young Lives of Anchorage.