Iliodor "Ed" Philemonof

Apr 13, 1942 -

Jun 16, 2023

Iliodor "Ed" Philemonof, loving son, brother, father, uncle, grandfather and friend, passed away on June 16, 2023, from medical complications.

Iliodor was born on April 13, 1942, to Isaac and Erena (Merculief) Philemonof, he was the second oldest of six siblings. On June 24, 1942, during World War II, when he was just two months old, he and his family were forced to leave their home and were interned at Funter Bay in Southeast Alaska. It is believed Iliodor may have been one of if not the youngest individual(s) of over 800 Aleuts interned. He was 2-1/2-years-old when he and his family returned to St. George Island, Alaska.

He was raised on Saint George Island until he attended Mt. Edgecumbe Boarding School in 1957 for four years and graduated in 1961. After graduating high school, he returned home for two years to work and continue the commercial fur seal harvesting. In 1963, he moved to South Canaan, Pa., to attend St. Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary, which he graduated from in 1967. During the summer breaks of high school and seminary, he went back home to work at the St. George Seal Plant with the "Fur Seal Gang."

Iliodor spent his lifetime leading, working and advocating for the Aleut People, their culture, language and community. His leadership involvement included positions with organizations such as the Aleut League, the Aleutian Planning Commission, the Alaska Federation of Natives, St. George Tanaq Corporation, St. Innocent Cathedral and the Aleutian Pribilof Islands Association. Iliodor shared his extensive knowledge in the Aleut community by providing guidance, support, advocacy and mentorship. He was a dedicated linguist known for his contributions in preserving and revitalizing the Unangam tunuu (Aluet language).

He is preceded in death by his brother, Father Paul Merculief; and sisters, Edna Floyd and Irene Melovidov. He is survived by siblings Dimitri Philemonof and Maria Stowe. He leaves behind three children: Iliodor Philemonof II, Isaac Philemonof and Alexis Philemonof. He will be missed by his six grandchildren: Iliodor III, Lindsey, Treycen, Rhylynn, Gracelyn and Ashlynn.

Iliodor's caring, compassionate and generous nature was second to none. He believed the Lord provided for him and, without hesitation, passed that on by helping anyone in need. His favorite pastimes were sports fishing, listening to music and singing in the church choir. He cherished spending time with his family, especially sharing good conversation and humor with his siblings in their Aleut language.

May he be remembered for his passion and dedication to preserving the Aleut Culture and enhancing the lives of the Aleut people.