Ronald Norman Butler

Oct 22, 1964 -

Jun 16, 2026

Our family is heartbroken to announce that Ron peacefully passed away at Providence Hospital in Anchorage, Alaska, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Moscow, Idaho, to Louanna (Flynn) Butler and the late Thomas Abraham Butler, Ron spent his childhood in Anchorage and Missoula, Mont. Following high school, Ron returned to Alaska, where he worked as a heavy equipment operator in gold and zinc mines before settling in Anchorage, where he met Laurie Hall and married in June 1995. Together they built a life raising two sons, Joshua and Jakob. Ron enjoyed a long career operating heavy equipment, including positions at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport and Municipality of Anchorage Street Maintenance. He loved camping and hunting in Alaska's mountains, including a cherished hunting trip in Africa, and visiting beloved family in the Lower 48.

Ron is survived by his loving wife of 31 years, Laurie; mother, Louanna Butler; son, Joshua (Nicole) and their beloved daughter Leah; son, Jakob; and sister, Holly Anderson (Tom). He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Butler.

Those wishing to honor Ron's memory please consider donating to a local animal shelter.

A celebration of Ron's life will be held on Oct. 17, 2026, from 1-3 p.m. at King Street Brewery in Anchorage.

Belva Jean Cadman

May 21, 1928 -

Sep 18, 2026

Belva Jean Cadman of Anchorage, Alaska, passed peacefully in the company of family members on Sept. 18, 2026.

Belva was a long-time Alaska resident, moving to Alaska in the winter of 1955-1956 with her husband and three children.

Born on May 21, 1928, in Lewiston, Idaho, Belva lived a long, happy life.

She was predeceased by her husband of almost 60 years, Ted R. Cadman. She is survived by her three children, Valerie and husband Donny Bell, Pamela and husband Kenneth Bystedt and Theodore Michael "Mike" Cadman; six grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

The family would appreciate any donations being made to the donor's choice of charities in Belva's honor.

Joseph S. Churchill

Sep 29, 1929 -

Sep 26, 2026

Joseph "Joe" S. Churchill, 96, of Scottsdale, Ariz., passed away on Sept. 26, 2026. Born in Aberdeen, Wash., he proudly served his country as an Air Traffic Controller in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War.

A long-time Alaskan, Joe was the owner and operator of Arctic Insulation in Anchorage. He lived a life full of adventure as an avid hunter, dedicated fisherman and world traveler. A striking presence who naturally drew people in, Joe was beloved by all who knew him for his warmth, gentle nature and easy charisma.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Churchill; stepdaughters, Michele Robuck and Bonnie Graham; sons-in-law, Michael Robuck and Skip Graham; daughter-in-law, Carole Ann Churchill; grandchildren, Madeline Deluche, Taylor Golick, Markus Churchill, Gunnar Robuck, Connor Golick, Hunter Robuck, Yuri Golick, Pierce Graham, Connor Graham and Isabelle Robuck; and great-granddaughter, Juliette Deluche. He was preceded in death by his son, Mark Churchill.

No services are planned at this time. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date in Anchorage, Alaska.

Pamela O'Connor Durall

Oct 17, 1940 -

Jun 23, 2026

Pamela O'Connor Durall was born on Oct. 17, 1940, in Chester, Pa., to Ruth Bourne and Leo O'Connor. She was the oldest of four children, growing up alongside her beloved brother and sisters, Bill, Sue and Debbie. She graduated from Chester High School in 1958 and earned her nursing degree from Temple University in 1961, where she made lifelong friends with Toni, Judy and Louise.

In 1964, Pam and her best friend, Toni, drove across the country to San Francisco, Calif., where they both found nursing jobs at UCSF Medical Center. Toni remembered Pam as a nurse of great skill and compassion. It was there that Pam met Don Durall, whom she later married. In 1968, they moved to Anchorage, Alaska, where they raised their daughters, Amy and Krissy.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Pam and her family made the most of life in Alaska. Summers were spent at their remote cabin in Skwentna, fishing for salmon and trout, while winters meant cross-country skiing and riding snowmachines. The family also kept a boat in Seward, Alaska, and spent weekends exploring Resurrection Bay with friends and family. They fished, went shrimping, anchored in secluded coves and watched the wildlife—seals, sea lions, puffins, walruses and whales. Alaska offered no shortage of adventure, and those years were filled with time outdoors and memories made together.

Hawaii was another favorite destination. The family often spent Christmas in Maui, escaping Alaska's cold, dark winters for a little sunshine. Summers brought trips back East to visit Pam's family in Pennsylvania. They spent summers in Stone Harbor, N.J., renting houses large enough for the family to gather and enjoy days at the beach and boardwalk, along with time catching up with Pam's siblings, nieces and nephews.

After Pam and Don divorced in 1985, she continued to build her life around her daughters and, eventually, her grandchildren. When both daughters settled in the greater Seattle area, Pam sold her home in Alaska and moved to the Puget Sound region. She bought a cute little house in Bellevue, where she lived from the 1990s into the 2010s. She continued working as a nurse while enjoying more time with her growing family.

In 2017, Pam moved to Merrill Gardens at the University. She enjoyed her cozy apartment, dinners with friends and the many social activities offered by the community.

Pam had many interests and never lacked an opinion. She loved folk music, especially Joan Baez, Bob Dylan and Judy Henske. She played guitar and sang, and she spent many hours playing tennis at the Anchorage Racquet Club. She adored her dogs, Thor, Lucy and Daisy, and loved a good book or a Nora Ephron movie. She was curious about the world and always up for a lively political discussion. She wasn't afraid to speak her mind, but her easygoing nature and good sense of humor made her wonderful company.

Pam was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth and Leo; and brother, William Dessart Mager. She is survived by her daughters, Amy Haroon and Kristin Durall; grandchildren, Leo Haroon, Lucas Haroon, Francis Haroon and Sorcha Marron; great-granddaughter, Alma Haroon; sisters, Susan Keeley and Deborah Mager-Strah; and many nieces and nephews.

She will be deeply missed by her family and friends and lovingly remembered.

John Edward Finn

Jan 29, 1939 -

Oct 3, 2026

John Finn, a dedicated manufacturing engineer, passionate outdoorsman and family man, has completed his final journey, passing away in Anchorage, Alaska, on Oct. 3, 2026. Born with a spirit for adventure, John lived a vibrant life that spanned the country, leaving behind a legacy defined by the mountains he conquered and love for the outdoors.

John's life story was written across several communities he proudly called home: Beaver Falls, Pa., his birthplace and where his journey began; Monrovia, Calif., where he moved during his high school years, making lifelong memories; Green Valley Lake, Calif., the mountain community where he began his retirement years surrounded by nature; Anchorage, his final home, where he spent his later years continuing to marvel at the great outdoors.

Wherever he lived, John was known for a completely different, and equally legendary, passion. He loved to bake, and his signature chocolate chip cookies were a staple of the holiday season. Every year, John looked forward to baking massive batches of cookies to give to his friends and family. This festive tradition became a hallmark of the holidays.

He is survived by his loving partner, Betty Lane, who shared in his life's journey. His legacy lives on through his devoted children: Cheryl Johnson, Michele Arriaza Silva and Shawn Finn. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, who brought immense pride and happiness to his life: Neil Johnson and Mic Arriaza Silva.

John Finn lived a full life balanced by the analytical focus of his career and the wild freedom of the mountains. He will be deeply missed by his family, his lifelong friends and all those across the miles who were lucky enough to enjoy a warm cookie and a great story from his adventures.

In the spirit of John's life, his family encourages you to take a walk in the woods or bake a batch of cookies for someone you love.

Deanna Gratrix

Feb 15, 1945 -

Sep 18, 2026

Deanna Lynn Gratrix, 81, of Palmer, Alaska, passed away peacefully at home on Sept. 18, 2026, surrounded by her family.

Deanna was born on Feb. 15, 1945, in Anchorage, Alaska, and spent more than 40 years living in the Palmer Butte area. There, she built a life filled with family, adventure, creativity and a deep appreciation for the outdoors.

She is survived by her sons, Grant Gratrix and wife Rossana, and Jeff Gratrix; daughters, Koresa Gratrix and Rikki Gratrix; grandchildren, Chinkee, Christian, Chessa, Charlize, NikiLee, Jessica, Jacob, Ellie, Xander, Kody, Courtney and Crystal; as well as four great-grandchildren.

Deanna had a lifelong love of travel and adventure. She enjoyed exploring Alaska and traveling around the world, hunting, fishing and going on African safaris. One of her greatest passions was driving her Corvette in road rallies with the Anchorage Corvette Association, where she was a longtime member. She loved participating in the Corvette runs every summer.

She was also incredibly creative and took great pride in her arts and crafts. For more than 30 years, Deanna entered her work in the Alaska State Fair, and each summer she looked forward to coming home with ribbons for her winning creations.

Above all, Deanna treasured her family. She especially loved opening her home during the holidays, bringing everyone together to celebrate, visit, laugh and create lasting memories.

Deanna will be remembered for her adventurous spirit, her creativity, her love of family and the many memories she created with those fortunate enough to know and love her.

W.R. "Rick" Harper Jr.

Oct 9, 1953 -

Jan 22, 2026

William Richard "Rick" Harper Jr., whose work as an oil and gas executive shaped natural gas transportation and marketing in Alaska, Oregon and Texas, died on Jan. 22, 2026, of natural causes at Legacy Meridian Park Hospital in Tualatin, Ore. He was 72.

Harper served as President of Atlantic Richfield Co. (ARCO) Gas in Dallas, Texas, before settling in Lake Oswego, Ore., where he was a key figure in utility strategy and underground storage development in the Pacific Northwest, as Sr. Vice President at Northwest Natural and later as Chief Executive Officer of Canor Energy, Ltd. He served as a senior advisor to former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin during the 2006-2007 VECO Corruption Scandal, and for a decade thereafter as a senior expert advisor to the state of Alaska and state lawmakers on energy policy.

Harper developed a reputation for translating the mechanics of energy markets into clear arguments and for negotiating without spectacle in boardrooms, hearing rooms and courtrooms, often fighting for what he saw were public interests. He is remembered by those who loved him for his southern charm, endless sayings, quick humor and generous affection for coworkers, neighbors and loved ones.

Harper was born on Oct. 9, 1953, in Greensboro, N.C., to W.R. Harper Sr. and Nell Greeson Harper. His family carried the memory of economic collapse; his grandfather, John Christopher Harper, lost his business and later his life during the Great Depression after his local bank failed. The story, retold within the family, became a lesson in vigilance and discipline.

The Harper family moved to Atlanta, Ga., when Rick was young. He attended Chamblee High School, where he became a star wrestler, before transferring and graduating from Carter Woodson High School in Fairfax, Va., in 1971.

In 1975, he graduated cum laude from the Cox School of Business at Southern Methodist University, where he was a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma and Phi Eta Sigma honor societies and Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. During college, he worked between classes at DeGolyer and MacNaughton, a Dallas-based petroleum engineering and geological consulting firm, driving clients, assisting colleagues and absorbing the industry's culture from the inside.

After graduating from SMU, Harper joined interstate pipeline company Texas Eastern. In the late 1970s, he joined ARCO in Dallas, during a time when federal price controls began to loosen and Congress moved to deregulate natural gas markets, reshaping how gas was bought, sold and transported across state lines. By 1989, as President of ARCO Gas, Harper oversaw negotiation and administration of natural gas contracts, acquisition and marketing strategy and related litigation. The work required understanding emerging open access transportation rules that were reshaping interstate gas transmission.

Those who worked with him said he believed the underlying product had to be sound, from supply arrangements to transportation to delivery, before it could be marketed successfully. He believed that an organization's relationships – with its own staff, its customers and its community – were its most important and fragile assets, and that business success could only follow when relationships were kept strong.

In 1991, Harper left his executive role at ARCO during a corporate restructuring. He moved along with former wife, Julia, and son, John, to Lake Oswego, a Portland suburb, in 1992. The family move realized a lifelong dream of living in proximity to the outdoors of the Pacific Northwest – specifically Alaska – that Harper incubated since childhood. It was there that Harper shifted his career focus toward stewardship of public resources, working in utilities, transit and energy resource policy.

Harper joined Northwest Natural Gas, serving first as general manager of gas supply and later as Sr. Vice President of Gas Marketing. He also served as president and CEO of Canor Energy Ltd., a Calgary, Alberta-based affiliate created when NW Natural purchased oil and gas properties from Gulf Canada. Under his leadership, Canor expanded significantly during the mid-1990s.

At Northwest Natural, Harper was associated with expansion of underground natural gas storage at the Mist field and with pipeline infrastructure serving the Portland metropolitan area. Oregon relies on interstate transportation and storage rather than significant in-state production. The Mist facility enabled storage during favorable supply conditions and drawdown during peak demand, stabilizing gas utility rates for Oregonians.

Harper served on multiple industry, foundation and charitable boards. Harper oversaw marketing, trading, transportation, processing, storage and regulatory matters and appeared in proceedings before the Oregon Public Utility Commission.

By gubernatorial appointment, he served on Portland-area transit agency TriMet's Board of Directors. His tenure overlapped with planning and development of the extension of MAX Red Line light rail service to Portland International Airport through a public-private partnership. His involvement with METRO in Portland also coincided with the introduction of higher-speed rail service on the Amtrak Cascades corridor.

For his work bridging energy leadership and environmental stewardship, Harper received the Business Achievement Award from the Environmental Federation of Oregon.

He also served on the board of the Christie School in Lake Oswego, one of Oregon's oldest facilities serving children with severe emotional and behavioral health challenges. His board work focused on securing the school's physical campus and stabilizing its finances during a period of organizational transition into a modern residential treatment center, applying his background in restructuring and contract work to a mission he found genuinely compelling.

Harper volunteered during the early 2000s to advise community outreach efforts to stabilize the Portland Trail Blazers NBA franchise during the turbulent Jail Blazers period.

After his corporate roles, Harper established Energy of Business Consulting Associates and took on consulting and expert witness engagements, frequently in disputes over mineral rights and royalty payments.

Harper's expertise extended to Alaska during debates over commercialization of North Slope natural gas.

In 2006, FBI agents raided the offices of multiple Alaska state legislators as part of a corruption investigation centered on VECO Corporation, an oil field services company whose leadership had provided illegal payments to members of the state legislature. By May 2007, VECO's chief executive had pled guilty in federal court to bribery and conspiracy charges, and multiple legislators were convicted.

The scandal raised pointed questions about whether Alaska's energy laws had been shaped by the industry they were meant to govern — and made the presence of genuinely independent technical expertise a matter of public importance.

Into that environment came then-Gov. Sarah Palin with the Alaska Gasline Inducement Act, a framework designed to encourage development of a natural gas pipeline from the North Slope through competitive, transparent terms. The legislation included specific provisions against "pipeline squatting" — holding infrastructure rights as leverage without developing them for public benefit.

Harper was retained as a consultant to the Alaska State Legislature during the period. He appeared in hearings, including before the Senate Judiciary Committee in 2007. He also advised state administrations on production, royalty and pipeline matters and testified before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the National Energy Board of Canada.

In honor of his work that year the Alaska Legislature passed a resolution, sponsored by then-State Representative Carl Gatto, declaring Harper an "Honorary Alaskan."

In testimony, he analyzed cost structures, transportation incentives and contract provisions. Friends said he viewed that work as consistent with his long-held belief that contracts should reflect their stated obligations and that infrastructure incentives should align with public interest.

Court records identify him in class action litigation as an expert analyzing industry practice and payment structures. He worked in regions including the Permian Basin and Eagle Ford Shale. Harper believed that informational asymmetries between large producers and smaller royalty owners sometimes resulted in underpayments that hurt taxpayers and landowners, and often served a role introducing testimony that emphasized technical clarity during disputes.

"His sweet spot really was the royalty holder," Kaaren Harper, his third wife, said. "He said that he took on a lot of stress from his (public interest) work because he felt that if he didn't speak up, no one else would."

Harper married Julia Ann Bradford in 1985; they later divorced after the birth of their son. Harper then married Kaaren Krugner in 2018, after having met her two years before. She was at his side, along with son John, when he died.

Harper cherished opportunities to contribute to the public good through his work, and worked six days a week for much of his life, reserving Sunday as his day off. He never formally retired, continuing to accept work until illness in summer 2025 limited his ability to do so.

Friends described him as patient but intense, relaxed but energetic. He was modest about his career and listened more than he spoke. Each evening before bed, John Harper said, his father would name people for whom he was grateful. He repeated the practice in the mornings.

"He embodied the act of being as fully present as possible – for the people around him – everywhere he went and in everything he did," John Harper said.

He was an avid collector of wine, and maintained a lifelong love of hunting and fishing in Alaska, the Dakotas, Montana, North Carolina and Virginia, Oregon and Texas, as well as in Mexico. He earned trophy records in multiple states counties throughout his life as a sportsman, in striped bass, largemouth and smallmouth bass, as well as in deer, duck and pheasant.

"Rick saw God in nature," Kaaren Harper said. "It was his church."

Harper was a gifted pitcher and lifelong baseball fan and devotee of the Seattle Mariners. He regularly sponsored local Oregon little league teams, in his own name or company name.

In addition to son, John; and wife, Kaaren; survivors include his father, W.R. Harper Sr.; sister, Carol Harper Milligan; nephews, David and Andrew Milligan; and their four beloved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Nell Greeson Harper.

For his family, Harper leaves rituals of gratitude and a model of disciplined engagement and relentless care. For colleagues, a record of fierce advocacy for the good of those around him. He was laid to rest on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, at Green Hill Cemetery in his native Greensboro.

Carla Lewis

Jul 30, 1940 -

Oct 4, 2026

Carla Lee Greenwell Robbins Lewis, 86, passed away on Oct. 4, 2026.

Born on July 30, 1940, in Nevada City, Calif., Carla lived a life centered on family, faith, creativity and adventure. She was a devoted mother and later shared nearly 30 wonderful years with her husband, Robert "Bob" Lewis, blending their families and building a life filled with travel and time together.

Alaska held a special place in Carla's heart. She and Bob shared many adventures here. Her extraordinary quilting earned honors at the Alaska State Fair. Carla will be remembered for her love of reading, music, travel and creating beautiful things, but most of all for the way she loved her family and made those around her feel good.

For Carla's full obituary, please visit www.cannonmortuary.com/obituaries/carla-lewis.

Peter Downey Macksey

Nov 29, 1951 -

Sep 28, 2026

Peter Macksey was born to Lawrence and Barbara Macksey in North Adams, Mass., in 1951. He passed away on Sept. 28, 2026, after a brief and brave fight with glioblastoma.

Peter spent his youth in St. Joseph Elementary and High School and attended Wentworth Institute in Boston. At 19 years of age, he bought an old bread truck, his father bought him a case of Campbell's soup and he drove to Alaska, where he lived until his passing.

He was a proud lifetime member, 51 years, of Ironworkers Local 751 and ended his career as a salesman and estimator at SteelFab.

Peter met and married his wife Pam in 1981, and they were blessed with the birth of their son Rylan in 1985. They were married for 45 years. They spent their retirement years as snowbirds in Arizona. Peter enjoyed the family cabin at Big Lake, traveling the world, reading, cribbage, long distance bicycling groups and singing with the choir at the Anchorage Senior Center. Those who knew Peter will remember him as full of curiosity, adventure and kindness, with full on body hugs, as well as an ability to stretch a chance encounter at the grocery store into a 30-minute visit.

Peter is survived by his wife, Pam; sister, Susan; and daughter-in-law, Amanda. He is predeceased by his parents; brother, John; and beloved son, Rylan.

We will celebrate his life together in spring 2027.

Mike Schilling

May 2, 1972 -

Oct 3, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Michael Kenneth Schilling, a beloved husband, father, son, brother and friend.

Mike was born on May 2, 1972, to Louis and Claire "Terrie" Schilling in Soldotna, Alaska. He graduated from Nikiski High School in 1991 and went on to build a life deeply rooted in the community he called home.

Mike worked for Schilling AK for many years before becoming the owner of GLM in Kenai. Throughout his life, he pursued numerous business endeavors and earned the respect of those around him as a hardworking business owner, dedicated employer and generous community member. Mike believed strongly in giving back and was always willing to support organizations and individuals in need.

Mike earned his private pilot's license at the age of 21, opening the door to one of his greatest enjoyments—exploring the beauty and wilderness of Alaska. Of all the places he traveled, his favorite was his hunting cabin. It was there that he taught his three sons to hunt and fish and created countless memories during trips with family and friends. The cabin was more than a destination to Mike; it was a place to spend time with the people he loved and share the Alaska outdoors that meant so much to him.

Mike took tremendous pride in his sons and loved being there for them. Whether he was watching them play baseball, football or basketball, or listening as they played guitar and drums, some of his greatest joy came from watching his boys grow and pursue the things they loved.

More than his accomplishments in business or the adventures he experienced, Mike will be remembered for the people he loved and the lives he touched. He was an amazing husband and father, a devoted friend and someone who could always be counted on when others needed him. His generosity, loyalty, strength and love for his family will leave a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Mike was preceded in death by his father, Louis Schilling; and sister, Claire Schilling.

He is survived by his partner of 36 years, Jennifer Bowman; their sons, Michael, Matthew and Louie; his mother, Claire "Terrie" Schilling; brother, David and wife Shannon; many nieces and nephews; as well as his GLM family and dear friends.

The family will hold a private service and plans to gather for a memorial mass and a celebration of Mike's life at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks those wishing to honor Mike's memory to consider contacting the high school athletic booster clubs in Soldotna, Kenai, or Nikiski, and making a contribution in support of local student-athletes.

We will miss Mike more than words can express. We will carry his memory with us always, honor the life he lived, cherish the countless memories he gave us and continue to love him forever.

Thomas Steward

Jan 18, 1946 -

Sep 26, 2026

Thomas J. Steward passed away on Sept. 26, 2026. He was born on Jan. 18, 1946.

A man of many ranges, Thomas Steward was a bold individual who shaped the lives of those closest to him and left a unique impression upon others. Whether it was style or his character, Thomas was certainly an unforgettable figure.

He is survived by his children, Tommy, Anthony, Luvi and Tia; life partner, Cookie; and grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

May Thomas rest in peace.

James "Jimmy" VanZant

Sep 2, 1951 -

Sep 23, 2026

James "Jimmy" VanZant was born on Sept. 2, 1951, to James and Dorothy McDaniel VanZant in Richmond, Ind. At 3 years old Jimmy, his parents and his sister Sue moved to Eagle River, Alaska, where he spent his boyhood hunting, fishing, reading and playing music. After his father's unexpected passing in 1962, Jimmy spent most of his youth moving around the country with his mother and stepfather, William "Bill" Parks, going from Indiana to Kentucky to Arkansas, and back up to Alaska, where the family homesteaded in the Hatcher Pass area. Always independent and free-spirited, as a teenager Jimmy played music in bands, rode motorcycles and hitchhiked across the country, stopping on the west coast during the Summer of Love in 1969. However, he quickly settled down when he met the love of his life, Kathi Carman, in 1970. The two married in 1972, and built a rough-and-tumble cabin in the Hatcher Pass area, with Jimmy doing the logging and milling for the beams himself. As Kathi would later say, "We didn't even have a level or a square, but we got it built." Slowly over time, their cabin developed into a proper home, and they welcomed their daughter Ivory into the family in 1986.

Though he had a bit of a checkered past, Jimmy eventually started working through the State of Alaska, first at the Pioneer Home in Palmer, and later at the Plant Material Center. A lifelong reader and knowledge seeker, he enjoyed his work cultivating native plant species and traveling around the wilderness of Alaska. However, Jimmy's real passion was not his work but his hobbies. He was a true Renaissance man, whether he was tinkering and working on his many motorcycles and vintage cars, studying ancient Roman history, or carving wood to make his own guitars, ukuleles and drums. He was an avid amateur botanist, developing his own strains of plants, and also enjoyed outdoor sports of all kinds, spending much of the winters in Hatcher Pass skiing, snowboarding and snowmachining, then gold panning, fishing and hiking in the summers.

Jimmy's motto throughout his life was "love many, respect all, harm none." An avowed pacifist later in life, he would even catch and release spiders and other insects instead of harming them. With a relaxed and calm demeanor, he made friends easily, especially if they had shared interests. He was generous with his time to his friends and family, and loved nothing more than spending time with others, playing music, working on a project or just sitting around a bonfire chatting and telling jokes. Jimmy passed away peacefully on Sept. 23, 2026, in the home that he and Kathi built, surrounded by "his girls" - his wife, Kathi; daughter, Ivory; and dog, Blossom. In addition to his immediate family, he is survived by his niece, Kimberly Levesque; stepnephew, Marc Levesque; nephews, Richard and David Byers and Everett Levesque. A memorial service will be held for Jimmy on Oct. 25, 2026, from 1-5 p.m., at the Fishhook Bar and Grill. Friends and family are encouraged to bring their favorite cars and guitars in his honor.

Colleen Wilson

May 27, 1955 -

Nov 17, 2025

Colleen was born on May 27, 1955, in Great Falls, Mont., to Francis Joseph Burns and Guinevere Maude Lewis. She passed peacefully at Providence Hospital in Anchorage, Alaska, on Nov. 17, 2025, of natural causes.

Colleen came to Anchorage in 1973 and never moved away. She loved Alaska and her career at Northern Lights Fred Meyer, where she worked for nearly 40 years. The highlight of her career was managing the lumber department, where she enjoyed her customers and coworkers for many happy years, and made many lifelong friendships.

Colleen participated in organized roadside cleanups, and also earned many customer service awards at Fred Meyer, called "Q cards."

Her hobbies included planting many flowers each May, reading scary books by Steven King and Dean Koontz, and music. Her favorite bands were The Moody Blues and Frank Zappa. Her favorite comedians were George Carlin and Robin Williams.

Colleen Wilson was an unusually sweet soul. She accepted and loved everyone and had no enemies, and was a true flower child in many ways. Her health declined in her final years and she became housebound. She wasn't active on social media, so she became increasingly isolated, but enjoyed watching tv. Colleen was preceded in death by her parents; and adopted brother, Tim Burns. She is survived by her grieving partner, Jim Long of Anchorage; and sister, Kathleen Hill of West Jordan, Utah. Her ashes will be scattered from Homer Spit sometime in summer.

RIP Colleen, and thank you for making the world a better place! We miss you so much!

Gene Wirkus

Apr 11, 1952 -

Sep 21, 2026

Gene L. Wirkus left this world peacefully at home, with family surrounding him on Sept. 21, 2026, in Palmer, Alaska, after a two-year battle with cancer.

Gene is survived by his children, Jeromy, Jeri, Jolene and Jason; 13 grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; and his wife, Debra; her daughters, Michelle and Sheila; five grandchildren; and seven great grandchildren.

Gene retired from the Anchorage School District in 2009 after 30 years. After he and Deb retired, they enjoyed travel in the Lower 48 and spending winters at their house in Arizona. Gene was a jack-of-all-trades; there was nothing he could not fix. He was a fantastic vehicle mechanic and throughout the years had a side business with many customers. Gene had a thing for anything to do with cars, enjoyed rebuilding cars and enjoyed his many classics throughout his years. He will be greatly missed by many.

A Service is not planned.