Matthew Phillip Welk

Sep 27, 1956 -

May 28, 2023

Matthew Phillip Welk, born Sept. 27, 1956, passed away in Chugiak, Alaska, on May 28, 2023. Beloved husband, father and friend to many; an Alaskan since 1983, Matt was a middle and high school English teacher in the Mat-Su School District for 28 years, as well as wrestling coach and referee for two decades. He was a U.S. Army veteran, an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hiking, gardening, and fishing, and was a skilled woodworker and glazier who did construction work during school breaks.

Matt leaves behind his loving wife, Ellen Murphy-Welk; two sons, Bill and Kiel of Minnesota; and stepson, Ryan, of Washington. Matt will be deeply missed by the many people whose lives he touched. May he be at peace.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers and other temporary remembrances, donations in honor of Matt's life are made to The Nature Conservancy.