Patrick Norman

Sep 21, 1957 -

Jan 1, 2025

Patrick N. Norman, 67, a beloved husband, father, uppa, unga and esteemed leader in the Chugach Region of Alaska, passed away surrounded by his family on Jan. 1, 2025, in Anchorage, Alaska.

Patrick was born in Homer, Alaska, to Marvin Norman and Dorothy (Norman) Moonin. He lived a life dedicated to his family and the Alaska Native community. He is survived by his devoted wife, Francis Norman; children, Tasha McPherson (Jose), Vanessa Norman and Storman Norman (Hanna); grandchildren, Dominik Norman, Isaiah McPherson, Storman P. Norman and Aria Norman (Storman and Aria's mom, Nathania Norman); siblings, Marlene "Girlie" Norman, Wayne Norman, Martin Norman and Randy Norman; and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin Norman and Dorothy Moonin; stepfather, John Moonin; grandson, Jordin McPherson; and brother, Gordon Norman.

Patrick grew up in Port Graham, Alaska, and served the Native Village of Port Graham for over four decades with the last 23 years as the Tribal Chief, "Tuyuq." This was alongside a tenure on various boards including the Port Graham Corporation, Chugachmiut, Chugach Regional Resources Commission (40 years) and North Pacific Rim Housing Authority Board (34 years). His commitment extended beyond the Chugach Region through his active participation on the Alaska Federation of Natives Board of Directors and the Alaska Sea Otter & Steller Sea Lion Commission. Patrick was known as a fierce advocate for subsistence hunting and fishing rights, and in 2024, he was awarded the Alaska Federation of Native's "Katie John Hunter-Fisher Award" for his dedication to preserving and protecting Alaska Native subsistence rights.

Patrick's love for his community was matched only by his passion for fishing - he was a commercial salmon and crab fisherman as a young man, and he later found joy in watching the show, "Deadliest Catch." Hunting and fishing were activities he deeply cherished and shared with his children and grandchildren. Many wonderful days were spent together on the Port Graham Bay where they would explore the beaches at low tide or fish side-by-side while sharing stories that will forever echo in their hearts. He took great pride in keeping Francis busy with processing their catches at home for their family. This was a testament to their decades of teamwork and as partners in life.

As we remember Patrick today, and always, we celebrate not just what he accomplished but also how profoundly he loved those around him. He fiercely protected our traditions while imparting future generations with wisdom originating from those that came before him and from his experiences rooted within this land we call home. His legacy extends beyond all of his professional achievements and the titles he held - it lies within every heart he touched with kindness throughout his life.

The funeral service will be held in Port Graham, at the Church of the First Born on Jan. 9, 2025. A memorial gathering will be held in Anchorage, on Feb. 1, 2025, at 1 p.m., at Alaska Native Heritage Center, 8800 Heritage Center Drive. Pallbearers: Storman W. Norman, Storman P. Norman, Dominik Norman, Isaiah McPherson, Wayne Norman, Martin Norman and Randy Norman.