Robert W. Bryson III

Jul 19, 1951 -

Feb 4, 2026

Robert William Bryson III, age 74, passed away on Feb. 4, 2026, in Palmer, Alaska. Born on July 19, 1951, in Scranton, he spent his childhood in Gouldsboro, Pa., where he always remained extremely proud to say he was from! Robert, or Bob as he was called by many, was the epitome of hard work, dedication, fun and love. As he would say, he was a legend in his own mind. As a skilled and talented Bodyman, he spent over 50 years building and painting cars, motorcycles and even planes. He took immense pride in his craft and was a mentor to many, including his sons. Many memories are shared from "hanging out" in his shop, where countless life lessons were taught to those who came to visit. His later years were spent in the town of Palmer, yet he never gave up his love of "the Butte." Many people passed by his shop doors there, where he would lend tools, his own work space or mostly his vast knowledge of vehicle repairs! Bob had a generous yet adventurous spirit. He lived life to the fullest, even some might say on the edge. His love for Mopars and riding bikes was part of what made him so special. On the exterior, he might look like a tough guy with his biker boots and tattoos, but he had a heart of gold. He loved his namesake son, Bob, immensely. Theirs was a relationship that is hard to explain to many; that is how he even wound up living in Alaska, where there were countless trips made together and stories to tell. Bob never wavered in his love for his family or his commitment to living life fully. He will be missed by many.

Beyond his work, Bob was a devoted husband to Canice, his wife of 35 years. He was a loving father and survived by six children: Richard Bryson (Melissa) of Hernando, Fla.; Mary Crooks of Sheridan, Wyo.; Linda Lawlor (Mike) of Lake Wallenpaupack, Pa.; Paul Bryson (Althea) of Fairfax, Va.; Jennie Bryson of East Meadow, N.Y.; Bob Bryson (Maggie) of Bunn, N.C. He was proud of his grandchildren, who may be spread out, but were the center of pride for him. Also surviving are sister, MaryAnn Bryson and family; and brother-in-law, Jim Kanavy and family. Additionally, he is survived by his beloved dogs, Loki and Foxy. Bob was very passionate about his animals; he loved and lost so many. He was a compassionate and empathetic animal whisperer who could speak their language. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Robert and Mary Bryson; and sister, ZoeAnn Kanavy. At this time, there are no arrangements. His ashes will be sent to his family, and a burial will follow sometime in spring 2026 in Pennsylvania. As was his wish, he will be buried next to his parents.

Margaret "Peggy" Bunker

May 8, 1939 -

Jan 26, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Diana Conway

May 29, 1943 -

Jan 18, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

William Daniel

Jun 2, 1930 -

Jan 23, 2026

William Samuel Daniel, 95, of Seward, Alaska, passed away peacefully on Jan. 23, 2026. Sam, as everyone knew him, was born on June 2, 1930, in Plainview, Texas, to Newton Samuel and Thelma Irene (Likenhoger) Daniel. He and his family moved to Seward in 1971.

Sam was an educator for 33 years. He started his teaching career as a P.E. teacher but quickly decided his talents would best be used as a school guidance counselor, at which he later excelled. He earned his Master of Psychology and then his Education Specialist degree from the University of Florida. Half of his teaching career was at Seward High School. He was recognized as the School Guidance Counselor of the Year by the Alaska State School Counselors Association. Sam was also a U.S. Army veteran during the Korean War, where he achieved the rank of Corporal and earned various achievements, including expert marksman.

Sam was well known for his love of entertaining others, but especially loved young people. Whether he was telling stories, doing coin tricks or kicking a door jam, Sam made people smile. Sam also had a great love for the outdoors of Alaska. He loved to hunt, hike, fish, float rivers and camp - either in a cabin or just under a tree and tarp. Sam was a skilled pool shot, bowler and card player. He was civic minded, serving on the boards of several local agencies, and was a member of the Elks and American Legion. He is remembered as "the man in the Stetson on a four-wheeler," who picked up litter along the highway outside Seward for over 20 years.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Daniel; sons, Sam Daniel and David Daniel (Leslie); stepdaughter, Marci Woern; daughter-in-law, Tammy Woern; nine grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Newt and Thel; brothers, Wesley, Hugh and Philip; first wife, June Marie (Malone) Daniel; stepson, Brett Woern; and grandson, Taylor Daniel.

A celebration of life will be held in late May or early June 2026, to be announced later. If you choose to give a memorial, we suggest the Seward Memorial United Methodist Church, the Seward Senior Center or any charity of your preference.

Michael Darling

Jun 19, 1945 -

Jan 25, 2026

Michael Eugene Darling was born on June 19, 1945, in Tacoma, Wash. He lived a life guided by compassion, courage and a deep sense of purpose. After earning his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree, he moved to Alaska in 1970, where he built not just a dental practice, but a lasting legacy of kindness. He was known as a dentist who never turned a patient away, serving others with humility, generosity and genuine care. His work was more than a profession, it was an extension of his heart.

He believed life was meant to be lived fully. He poured himself into everything he loved, giving 110 percent to each passion. A true adventurer in spirit and soul, he embraced gardening, bodybuilding, windsurfing, jewelry making, being a hunting guide for Dall sheep, gold mining, photography, being a pilot and a great adventurer of Alaska. He mastered the art of living off-the-grid and found deep peace and meaning in Alaska's vast and breathtaking wilderness. Like many of his generation, he lived boldly, simply and with great respect for the land.

His favorite saying captured his philosophy perfectly, "Remember, we're not here for a long time, only a good time." Those words reflected his joy, gratitude and unmistakable zest for life. He is survived by his beloved wife, Lucy; children, Stephanie, Danica, Ramon, Daphne, Zachary and Renee; and many treasured grandchildren. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather, a friend to many and a proud American patriot.

His life stands as a testament to service, generosity, loyalty, adventure and love. Though his time here was finite, the impact of his kindness and the memories he created will live on for generations.

Love you more, Dad.

Julie Dietz

Dec 17, 1948 -

Feb 2, 2026

Julie Dietz, longtime resident of Eagle River, Alaska, passed away on Feb. 2, 2026, at the Berkeley Springs Health Care facility.

Born on Dec. 17, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Lyle Anderson and Marie (Elgren) Anderson. Julie was a welder/inspector for the trans-Alaska oil pipeline.

Julie moved to the area in 2023 to be closer to her family. She retired from the Alaska pipeline, where she was the first woman to accomplish many nontraditional roles, like being a nondestructive testing inspector on the pipeline. She was a pioneer for women, working in a male dominated field.

Julie is survived by her daughters, Kirsten M. Ashenfelter (Craig) and Britta M. Johnson; son, John C. Dietz (Bishnu); brother, Dale Anderson; sister, Nancy Schmit; grandchildren, Demetrius, Alysha, Jessica, Jada, Nevaeh, Tara, Owen, Kylee, Alana, Arahzia, Brooks, Craig and Brandon; and 15 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert Claude Dietz; sister, Darlene K. Schmit; and granddaughter, Teressa S. Johnson.

In lieu of flowers, please make contribution to Alzheimer's Association at P.O. Box 96011, Washington, DC 20090-6011.

Services and interment are private.

Online condolences may be offered at www.BrownFuneralHomesWV.com.

John Jacob Egenolf

May 24, 1942 -

Nov 20, 2025

John Jacob Egenolf, known as "Jack" to his family, was born on May 24, 1942, and passed away on Nov. 20, 2025, at the age of 83.

Jack grew up in San Mateo, Calif., with his parents, Mayre and Jacob, and a much older brother, George, who was away at Stanford when Jack was born. He was only 12 when his father died of cancer, followed by the loss of his only sibling, George, who died in a scuba accident when Jack was 17. Thereafter, Jack devoted much of his life to caring for his mother, Mayre.

He attended Santa Clara University, a Catholic institution, where he was active in student politics and played football. Guided by his strong Catholic faith, Jack seriously considered the priesthood before ultimately earning an MBA, and later a Ph.D. in mathematical theory at the University of California, Riverside, specializing in statistics.

Jack began his career in business, working at technology companies including Hewlett-Packard and GTE. He soon discovered, however, that teaching was his true calling and was thrilled when he became a Professor of Statistics at Oregon State University and later at the University of Alaska Anchorage, where he taught until his first retirement.

An avid skier, Jack spent school breaks in South Lake Tahoe, where his restlessness and love of teaching led him to additional faculty roles at the University of Nevada, Reno. He eventually returned to Alaska, rejoining the University of Alaska—this time in Fairbanks—which became his favorite home. Even after "retiring" many times, Jack always seemed to return to teaching part-time at the University of Alaska Fairbanks until his death. Wherever Jack lived, he formed deep and lasting friendships.

Jack's older brother George, was an OB/GYN in San Diego, which is why their mother, Mayre, went to the Scripps Clinic there for her medical care. Jack was impressed by Scripps as he accompanied her on appointments, so later chose it for his own medical care as well, despite the inconvenience of the location. In late 2025, while being treated in Fairbanks for lymphoma complicated by a fractured hip, Jack elected to travel to Scripps for care. Unfortunately, his condition was far more serious than he realized and declined very rapidly; he ultimately refused further treatment and passed away two days later.

Jack remained steadfast in his Catholic faith and received last rites at Scripps. He wished for his ashes to remain in Fairbanks, along the banks of the Chena River. A memorial gathering will be held on May 24, 2026. For details, please contact Gail Alaimo at gailandedalaimo@gmail.com. In lieu of sending flowers, please consider a donation to the Fairbanks Native Association in Jack's honor https://www.fairbanksnative.org.

Khangaew Erwin

Jun 12, 1943 -

Jan 29, 2026

Khangaew "Sontaya" Erwin, age 82, was called home by our Lord and Savior on Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on June 12, 1943, in Mae Chan, Thailand, Sontaya had a fervor for life and love, and faced both with unwavering courage and exceptional strength. Sontaya dedicated her youth to providing for her family, leading her from the quiet hills of Chiang Rai to the bustling streets of Bangkok. Her grace and beauty captivated all around her, including the love of her life, Robert. The year was 1972, and with a love that knew no bounds, barriers of language and borders ceased to exist. Thus began her new journey to the United States.

Rooted in Christian faith and a force to be reckoned with, Sontaya was known for her fiery disposition: a quick-witted woman with a heart of gold. Her life was a testament to her endless loyalty, generosity and honesty. Her dedication to her family was only paralleled by her devotion to God. Sontaya demonstrated the meaning of faith in her every action. From the scent of her kitchen drawing in voracious grandchildren, to the flowers blossoming in her garden after the harsh winters, life followed Sontaya everywhere. Now her life and legacy will follow those who loved her.

She is survived by her husband, Dr. Robert "Bob" Erwin; children, Montri (Naruemon) Pongdeeden, Anchalee (Thawat) Phamonchan, Nichanan (Ratthasart) Kulnapang, Surapong (Sureeporn) Buranont, Jeffrey (Jennifer) Erwin and Bobbie (Tucker) Kellow; grandchildren, Miranda (Joshua) Kimpton, Areeya Buranont, Brandon (Jocelyn) Erwin, Breanna (Thomas) Potter, Cherilyn Buranont, Joseph Erwin, Emery Kellow and Orachira Buranont; and great-granddaughters, Karsyn Kimpton and Reagan Kimpton.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Loi Luangchan.

Sontaya's Celebration of Life will be held at Muldoon Community Assembly on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, at 11 a.m.

Merilee Arleen French

Aug 20, 1953 -

Nov 23, 2025

Merilee "Meri" Arleen French, 72, passed away on Nov. 23, 2025, in Anchorage, Alaska, with her first-born, Micalle Culver, at her bedside.

Many of her eight children, Micalle, Megan Denny (Justin Denny Jr.), Monica Bradbury (Scott Stewart), Micrea Culver, Velvet Bright (Ken Bright), Lacey Szybnski, JonPaul Szybnski (Tayler Szybnski) and Lorelle Szybnski; three "littles," Pearl French, Harlinn French and Danynn French; 23 additional grandchildren, Andrea Bernard (Cy Young), Alyssa Carlson (Jake Carlson), Haliegh Culver, Khaira LaQuitara (Gio LaQuitara), Justin Denny III (Keahi Denny), Molly Denny, Lillia Bradbury, Oaklynn Bradbury, Stone Culver, Berlyn Holland, Jonaven Weber, Jaaven Weber, Daxten Quinones, Romee Bright, Ryli Roy, Kyla Roy, Kaydia Trahan, Brynn Bosch, Paxton Szybnski, Mason Szybnski, Marcus Szybnski, Waylen Shockey and Trillion Szybnski; and 14 great-grandchildren, Aston, Kai, Trey, baby boy, Presly, Sebastian, Everly, Julian, Spencer, Oliver, Poppy, Tatum, Theodore and Beau, were by her side in the moments leading up to and immediately following her last breath.

In addition to her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she is survived by older sisters Barb, Sandy and Judy; and younger brother, Bill. She was preceded in death by her mother, Faith Miriam Butterfield; father, John French; and sister, Julie. She was the favorite auntie to many nieces and nephews.

Merilee was born in Everett, Wash. on Aug. 20, 1953. She moved to Alaska with her first husband, Steve Culver, in 1971, and began working toward her lifelong dream of filling the earth by having four daughters. She married Jim Szybnski in 1984, and finished Phase 1 of that plan with three more daughters and a son.

Because they outnumbered the days of the week, Merilee's kids were made to feel special in unique and thoughtful ways, like "alone turns" to have lunch with her, and goodnight kisses, one for each year of their lives. Those years were filled with hosting birthday parties and family holiday gatherings, whether everyone could comfortably fit into her modest homes or not. All she ever really cared about was which babies were in the room.

She believed in always saying "I love you" before goodbye. She blew kisses out the window to her long-distance loved ones. She had beautiful handwriting and often spent her days writing thoughts and poetry. Her laugh was infectious and her smile was radiant. She loved dancing and singing, especially Patsy Cline at karaoke and any song that she was reminded of when any of her kids told her any story about anything. She randomly brought home way too much candy and junk food for weekend movie nights in winter or packed a cooler and tent to camp at local lakes in summer. It was chaos and love, love and chaos.

Merilee spent her final days surrounded by her legacy: the 48 people she is directly responsible for putting on this earth, each of whom she loved, and who loved her, bigger than the sky.

Her remains will be spread on Mommy's Mountain. A memorial will be held 3-6 p.m. on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at the American Legion Post 15, 1550 S. Mystic Circle in Palmer, Alaska. Anyone who would like to celebrate Merilee's life or share a memory is welcome to attend.

Dolores Grubba

Apr 21, 1934 -

Dec 19, 2025

Dolores Grubba passed away on Dec. 19, 2025, from complications of Alzheimer's disease. Dolores had a deep and abiding faith in God and remained diligent in prayer throughout her life. Guided by her beliefs and convictions, she possessed a strong spirit, was a fierce protector of animals and a devoted friend of the convent for the Sisters of Perpetual Adoration. Dolores was born in Chicago, Ill., the only child of Casimiro "Casey" Mandac, of Laoag, Ilocos Norte, Philippines, and Mary (Parenti) Mandac, whose family originated from the Abruzzo Region of Italy. She grew up on Campbell Street, in a colorful, ethnically diverse neighborhood near Little Italy. Dolores and her family eventually moved to Brookfield, a quiet, residential suburb. She commuted by train to Chicago to attend Loyola University where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. Her first job as a Registered Nurse was in the busy Emergency Room at Cook County Hospital, a renowned teaching hospital serving a diverse community. It was there that she developed her strong, determined sense of purpose and the resilience, stamina and fortitude that defined her life. While at Loyola, Dolores met a young and adventurous dental student, Albert J. Grubba. After graduating, Al was stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska, serving as a Captain. The two were married in Chicago on Feb. 27, 1960, and soon after moved north to Alaska to start their life together. They welcomed three children: Greg, Judy and Kathy. Together they built a home in Anchorage and established a private dental practice that would span nearly four decades. Their son, Greg, would later continue the practice, which remains in the family today. Both her husband and son were pilots, and one of Dolores's greatest joys was flying with them. Life in Alaska was pure adventure—fly-in fishing trips, ski weekends at Mt. Alyeska, kayaking, berry picking, crabbing in Whittier, boating in the waters of Kachemak Bay off the Homer Spit and waiting for the fishing boats to come in loaded with crab. A favorite day for Dolores would stretch long into the hours of the midnight sun, sitting on the shore with her family, around a campfire, with a bottle of wine and a loaf of crusty bread, and always, a dog or two by her side.

Dolores came to embrace life in Alaska but looked forward to breaking up the long, cold season with her family's tradition of winter trips to Hawaii. She was an avid reader and gifted cook. She smoked fresh fish and mastered the traditional Italian and Filipino recipes passed down through generations of her family. When her children were young, Dolores and Al often hosted charity and political gatherings in their home, where she became known as a gracious, quick-witted hostess with a natural flair for entertaining. She loved gardening and tending her flowers, and each summer local tour buses would pause in front of her home to allow visitors to snap photos of her beautiful homegrown blooms. Dolores married James D. Hodapp, J.D., in June 2000, following Al's death on Nov. 5, 1995. She first met Jim while attending Loyola University. Jim moved from Chicago to Alaska, and together they shared 15 years of travel and a love of the arts. Dolores volunteered as an usher at the Center for the Performing Arts and enjoyed attending the symphony, the opera and any stage production playing in town. She served as a Eucharistic minister at Providence Hospital and hosted monthly masses in her home with local priests and friends. Her passion was working with rescued animals at the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah. After Jim passed on March 4, 2015, Dolores continued to live in Anchorage, embracing many local outdoor adventures with her children and grandchildren. She loved visiting farms in the Matanuska Valley to pick fresh vegetables with her daughter, Kathy, and granddaughter, Kaitlyn, who cared for her right up until her final days. She continued flying with her son Greg and his children, Natalie and Michael, and, when her health allowed, traveled to California to visit her daughter Judy and watch her grandson, Rocco, perform on stage. Dolores was a truly one-of-a-kind woman with a striking elegance, quick wit and a devoted heart. She will be dearly missed. Dolores is survived by her eldest son, Gregory Grubba, D.D.S., and wife Michelle Grubba of Anchorage; Judy Goldsworthy and husband Mark Goldsworthy, M.D., of Carlsbad, Calif.; and Kathy Gilmour of Anchorage. Additionally, she is survived by her grandchildren, Kaitlyn Mary Gilmour of Anchorage, Ricardo "Rocco" Polanco of Los Angeles, Calif., and Michael and Natalie Grubba of Anchorage. A Service will be held in spring 2026, when a private gravesite memorial will take place as the family lays Dolores to rest next to her parents, at a fly-in mountain location among the peaceful rivers and waterfalls of the Lake Clark Pass.

Richard Patrick Kelly

Mar 26, 1951 -

Jan 7, 2026

Richard "Pat" Patrick Kelly passed away peacefully on Jan. 7, 2026, at the age of 74. He was born in St. Louis, Mo., in 1951, and graduated with a B.S. in business administration from Southeast Missouri State. Pat leaves behind a legacy of adventure, unique experiences and warm heartedness. He was a cherished husband, father, grandfather and friend.

In 1974, Pat moved to Alaska, where he had a successful career in sales with Moore Business Forms, IBM and American Fast Freight. He was always a top salesman, winning multiple contests and accumulating many friends. His greatest trophies were time spent outdoors and memories made with friends and family. Pat met his wife Carol in Anchorage, Alaska, and they married in 1979. They welcomed their son Shawn in 1982, and daughter Krista in 1986.

Pat was passionate about many things in life, including hunting, fishing, flying, skiing, golf, history, gardening and especially cooking. He would spend hours perusing recipe books, trying to find amazing dishes to create. His family will remember him for all the homemade meals around the table. He acquired his private pilot's license and float rating, and thus began many adventures with family and friends in the great wilderness of Alaska, whether it was in a cabin, tent, plane or boat.

In 2013, Pat and Carol retired to Arizona, where they would enjoy visiting their grandchildren in California, golfing with friends and family, touring with the Corvette Club and traveling abroad.

Pat will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Carol; children, Shawn and Krista (Chris); and grandchildren, Dylan, Kaia and Caelan. He is also survived by his sister, Linda (Neil); brother, Michael (Robin); and numerous extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Delores; and siblings, Susan and Dennis.

A Celebration of Pat's Life will be held on Feb. 14, 2026, at 4 p.m., at Forty Niner Country Club, 12000 E Tanque Verde Road in Tucson, Ariz. Funeral arrangements are provided by Thompson Funeral Chapel in Goodyear, Ariz. Pat leaves behind a lifetime of memories and love that will live on in all who knew him.

Memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association, https://heart.org.

"Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, while love leaves a memory no one can steal."

Donald Lacombe

Dec 20, 1933 -

Jan 28, 2026

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

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

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

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

Ofelia Felix Lozano

Apr 11, 1943 -

Jan 28, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sharon McKenzie

Oct 20, 1937 -

Jan 24, 2026

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Connie Jo Sanders

Feb 14, 1961 -

Feb 5, 2026

Dr. Connie Jo Sanders of Anchorage, Alaska, died on Feb. 5, 2026, after a short battle with metastatic breast cancer. She was 64 years old. She was born on Feb. 14, 1961, in Billings, Mont., to Horace and Patricia Sanders. Her family moved to Anchorage when she was 10, and she remained part of the Anchorage community throughout her life.

While Connie was a veterinarian with a distinguished work and volunteer history, she was proudest of her family and friends. She is survived by her husband of 32 years, Bob Loeffler; and two children, Rebekah Loeffler and Henry Loeffler and wife Saleha Belgaumi. She is also survived by her mother, Patricia Sanders; sister, Heidi Foster; brother, Greg Sanders and wife Nancy; and several nieces and nephews. She had a wonderful circle of friends, many of whom she remained close to since high school. Others she acquired during her active life in Anchorage. Connie traveled widely with her husband and friends and had visited Africa, Central and South America, and the Grand Canyon, among other places.

Connie graduated from Bartlett High School in 1979. She graduated from Washington State University in 1983, and earned a degree in veterinary medicine from Oregon State University in 1987. She worked at several veterinary practices around Anchorage and became the veterinarian and then manager of Anchorage Animal Control. She retired from Animal Control in 2000, when her second child was born, and spent her time as a mother and community volunteer. As a volunteer she was a Court Appointed Special Advocate, on the board of the Anchorage Waldorf School and the treasurer for several Alaskan political campaigns. After her children left home, she worked with friends at a local business. She retired in February 2025. She will be greatly missed.

Janis Saville

Dec 2, 2025

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

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

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

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

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

Steven Van Sant

Apr 28, 1947 -

Dec 19, 2025

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

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

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

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

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