Karen Bronga
Jan 24, 1962 -
Jul 24, 2026
In Loving Memory of Karen Bronga
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Karen Bronga, who died on July 24, 2026, at the age of 64, following a tragic head-on collision near Sterling, Alaska.
If there is one idea that captures Karen's life, it is this: She was always up for a challenge. In fact, she loved a challenge. She was fearless, demonstrating the determination and tenacity that would characterize her entire life.
Born in Tacoma, Wash., on Jan. 24, 1962, Karen and her family moved to Anchorage, Alaska at age 2. This, just a few months after the 1964 earthquake. On the way to Alaska the family's trailer rolled over on the Alcan. This rollover would test and later define the family's grit, determination and love for the Alaska adventures. Truly, Alaska or bust.
While attending Wonder Park Elementary, Clark Junior High and East Anchorage High School, Karen made many friends for life through academics and sports. Her father, Elmer, instilled an incredible work ethic that allowed Karen to excel in academics, running and Nordic skiing at an early age. At the age of 17, Karen was chosen to be a Nordic skier forerunner in the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics. At Montana State University, Karen became the university's first NCAA All-American Bobcat. At the top of her game, Karen won Anchorage's Mayor's marathon twice and was nominated for a Rhodes scholarship.
Karen met Tom in Valdez, Alaska, in 1986. They quickly became best friends and soul mates for life. Married in 1988, they moved back to Anchorage and started a family. As raising three kids wasn't enough of a challenge, Karen started a daycare in her home called the Kare-Inn. She helped take care of babies and preschoolers as well as her own. In typical Karen fashion, she also attended APU classes at night to complete her elementary teaching degree simultaneously. Karen had boundless energy.
Karen dedicated her career to helping others. She worked in psychiatric recreation therapy at API and Harborview, creating opportunities for healing, growth and connection. She later became a teacher, inspiring and encouraging students through her commitment to education and belief in their potential. Her passion for public service led her to serve many roles in Scenic Foothills Community Counsel.
These many experiences led Karen to become an East Anchorage Assembly Member, where she advocated tirelessly for residents and worked to strengthen the community she loved. In later years, she continued her commitment to improving lives through her work with the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, contributing to studies and initiatives that supported the health and well-being of Alaska Native communities.
Karen gave back to her community in so many ways. She taught hundreds of kids how to ski and coached cross-country running to elementary and junior high children. She was one of the original Anchorage Junior Nordic ski coaches. Karen was all smiles after a practice, she loved playing ski games with the kids.
Karen believed life was meant to be lived fully, joyfully and in the company of others. She enjoyed being outdoors and getting exercise with her family, friends and beloved dogs, Tazz and Anna. She loved hiking in the mountains, orienteering in the woods, skiing and biking on all the trails that Alaska has to offer.
Karen also knew how to have fun. She loved games, laughter and bringing people together. She especially loved dancing and pop music, and it was not uncommon to find her singing along to a favorite song or encouraging others onto the dance floor. Her enthusiasm was contagious, and she had a gift for turning ordinary gatherings into memorable celebrations. People gravitated toward her energy, optimism and can-do spirit.
In addition to all of the above, she made time for hobbies like cooking, gardening and fused glass. She was good at just about anything she attempted.
Above all, Karen loved her family.
Her family was her greatest source of pride and deepest joy. She is survived by her beloved husband, Thomas Bronga; children, Jaime Bronga, Riley Bronga and Blaine Bronga; and mother, Roxanna Jeske (94). She celebrated her children's successes, supported them through challenges and loved them fiercely and unconditionally. The lessons she taught through her example - perseverance, service and fierce love - will remain with them always. She is also survived by her siblings, Denise Carey (Dan) and Terry Jeske (Alison); as well as nephews and nieces, Rachel Carey (Shane), Brent Carey (Sofia), Camden Jeske, Mason Jeske, Paxson Dooley and Malina Dooley.
A Remembrance of Karen's Life
Family, friends, colleagues and community members are invited to share memories of Karen's life on Aug. 29, 2026, at the Alaska Native Heritage Center in Anchorage, from 6-10 p.m.
The evening will reflect many of the things Karen loved most: connecting with people, enjoying food, sharing stories. Please bring a dish to share.
6–8 p.m.: Drinks, food and visiting with family and friends
8–10 p.m.: Remembrances and shared stories honoring Karen's life
She will be forever loved, forever remembered and forever missed.
