Richard Lee Kronberg

Aug 1, 1946 -

Oct 12, 2023

After a long illness, Richard Lee Kronberg died at his home in Tacoma, Wash., on Oct. 12, 2023, passing peacefully with his wife and two sons at his side. He was 77 years old.

His family and friends knew him and remember him now, as a man of great intellect. He was a gifted writer and speaker with a wonderful sense of humor and quick wit. He demonstrated great organizing ability, leadership skills and kindness. He was a supportive, loving husband to his wife, Cheri Solien, whom he married in 1985, and a wonderful father to their sons, Levi and Jake.

Born in New York City on Aug. 1, 1946, and raised in the Bronx, N.Y., Richard graduated from the Bronx High School of Science; he graduated from City College of New York and earned master's degrees from both City University of New York, in education, and College of New Rochelle, in special education. After spending a year at Cornell Law School, he came to realize that his true vocation was teaching, and he never looked back. Richard spent his early teaching years, from 1968 to 1981, teaching in New York City. Then, in 1981, he moved to Anchorage, Alaska, to teach for the Anchorage School District. He taught at Aurora and Klatt Elementary as well as Mears Jr. High. Starting in his early years in Anchorage, he got involved with the Anchorage Education Association (AEA). He was involved with teacher contract negotiations, was Region VI Director, and spent six years as AEA President and four years as NEA-AK president. After his retirement in 2007, he took on the NEA Alaska Retired local presidency and served as one of the NEA Alaska Retired directors. Richard fought for quality public education his entire career. He worked for education reform, defended teachers and took positions on tough issues. He was an informed and articulate leader who understood the deep issues in public education ... full obituary may be viewed at: https://edwardsmemorial.com/tribute/details/76627/Richard-Kronberg/obituary.html#tribute-start.