Amelia Irene Nowak

Mar 11, 2004 -

Aug 21, 2022

Amelia Nowak was born in Blacksburg, Va., on March 11, 2004, to Stephanie and Ethan. She was taken from this world in the early morning hours of Aug. 21, 2022, along with her loving boyfriend, Derek Duerr.

Amelia graduated with honors from South Anchorage High School this year, where she was Captain of the Varsity Basketball Team and a proud member of the Calculus Club. She was only a few weeks away from attending her first year at Western Washington University on an academic scholarship. She intended on studying mathematics and ultimately entering the medical field. She was incredibly excited to practice with WWU's women's basketball team, so that she could continue to pursue her passion for basketball, physical fitness and team camaraderie.

Amelia was an independent, intelligent, vivacious and caring young woman with a bright future. She was a steadfast friend and teammate, loving sister and cherished daughter. Amelia made sure that every person she met felt seen, welcome and comfortable. She loved working at The Alaska Club and at Fire Island Rustic Bakeshop, where she laughed and shared stories with locals and visitors. Amelia embodied warmth, light and power, and believed that we were put on this planet to support, love and encourage one another.

A celebration of life was held for Amelia and Derek at Bear Tooth Theatre on Aug. 26, 2022. The family extends their deepest gratitude to all who attended to share stories of their lives in loving fellowship. The meaning and value of that support cannot be overstated.

She is survived by her mother, Stephanie; father, Ethan; two younger sisters, Charlotte and Sophia; younger brother, Michael; stepfather, Owen; stepmother, Daryl; grandparents, Deborah, Nancy, Daniel and Joan; aunts, Rebecca and Aletha; uncle, Thomas; and numerous extended family members and friends.

A Go Fund Me memorial page has been set up in honor of Amelia and Derek with the intention of collecting funds to support youth basketball in Anchorage: https://gofund.me/5c15b732.

To support the South Anchorage Girl's Basketball Team, please visit https://ladywolverinehoops.godaddysites.com/.