Marvin G. Arend

Jan 24, 1938 -

Jan 6, 2026

Longtime Alaskan Marvin G. Arend passed away Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026.

Born on Jan. 24, 1938, in Denver, Colo., he was the son of Eric and Estelle Arend. He was the first born of three children, followed by brother David and sister Gwen; both preceded him in death.

After working on a ranch for three years, Marv entered Navy boot camp on his 17th birthday. During his four-year tenure of exceptional advancement, he married his wife of 68 years, Gail Elaine Matthews of Pueblo, Colo. He was the father of six, grandfather of 12, and great-grandfather of three.

Marv lived a very full and active life. After the Navy, Marv went to work for Mountain Bell in Colorado for seven years, then moved to Alaska in 1966. In 1959, Mav and Gail had their first child, son Michael G. Arend, followed every couple of years by James E Arend, Kristi E Arend, Gregory M Arend, Vicki M. Arend (Folkerts) and Cindy K Arend (Callaham).

Alaska was heaven for him and his friends, still wild and free. He loved hunting and fishing and running the rivers. Then he started flying. He got his private pilot's license, then his instrument rating as well as his commercial rating, more as a hobby for the latter two. Marv worked for MTA for a year in 1966, then went to work for ATU for 30 years. During that time, he worked in several different trade classifications. He also served as the Shop Steward for seven years. As a business representative, he was many negotiating committees, served on the Pension Trust and on the Executive Board of the IBEW 1547.

A Google search of Marv will find that he was also an inventor. He designed and implemented a city-wide pay station system that led ATU to be the first telephone utility in the entire country to be 100% compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

All who met Marv were inspired by his "get-r-done" attitude. He was a doer; he got things done. Marv always wanted to learn more and understand everything. He was never satisfied with the amount of knowledge he accumulated. He was an avid reader who read about every subject. Marv will be missed by many and remembered by all.

Celebration of Life to be announced at a later date.

Kenneth Peter Haakenson

Aug 13, 1952 -

Mar 12, 2026

Kenneth Peter Haakenson, known to many as "Haak," passed away on March 12, 2026, at the age of 73, with family by his side. He was born in Anchorage, in 1952, to Lionel and Esther (Larson) Haakenson, and raised in Anchor Point, Alaska, where his family homesteaded beginning in 1955. He later lived in Soldotna and Anchorage, Alaska.

Kenny lived a life defined by hard work, skill and resilience. He spent many years as a commercial fisherman and built a career as a telephone lineman, often working in challenging conditions that he handled with confidence and precision. He took pride in doing things right, whether operating heavy equipment, driving trucks or running his boat.

Those who knew Kenny will remember him most for his humor. He had a dry, quick wit and way of saying things that caught people off guard, often leaving them laughing moments later. He loved a good story, a well-timed joke and the simple comforts of life including his homemade blueberry vanilla ice cream and a good bowl of soup.

Kenny was a man of faith and a devoted family man. He especially cherished his role as a grandfather, showing up for his grandchildren's events, celebrating their accomplishments and making each of them feel special.

He is survived by his children, Dennis (Cindy) Haakenson, Matthew (Melissa) Haakenson, Emily (Wesley) Remmer and Julia Haakenson; grandchildren, Chloe Loop, Angelica (Brennen) Slats, Gavin Haakenson, Nathan Haakenson, Elliot Haakenson, Samantha Haakenson and Lucille Remmer; siblings, Tim (Melody) Haakenson, John (Celeste) Haakenson, Mary (Charlie) Perry and Ronnie (Lisa) Haakenson; and many nieces, nephews and other family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Lionel and Esther Haakenson; and brothers, Jim Haakenson and Robert Haakenson.

Kenny leaves behind a family and friends who will remember him not just for what he did, but for how he made people feel: laughing, thinking and always with a story to tell.

Jennifer Hunt

Jul 15, 1965 -

Mar 21, 2026

Jennifer Landreth Hunt, age 60, passed away on March 21, 2026. She was born on July 15, 1965, in San Antonio, Texas, to Lawrence and Elizabeth Hunt. She grew up in Hudson, Ohio, where she developed a lifelong curiosity and compassion that would guide her life. Dedicated to a pursuit of learning, she acquired higher education from several institutions. At the time of her death Jennifer was a board certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, APRN, specializing in neurology and pulmonary medicine.

Once having earned an RN degree, Jennifer completed the NIH Neuroscience Nurse Internship Program and the Veterans Administration residency. During her career of 12 years at NIH, Jennifer was awarded the NIH Director Safety, along with a poster presentation for an evidence-based project design in opioid risk mitigation for the Veterans Administration, and Clinical Research Nurse/Protocol Manager for neuroendocrine research. Jennifer's vast knowledge and experience at Bethesda, Md., for cancer and stem cell research was another successful experience.

In 2015, Jennifer Hunt, APRN, made a courageous and adventurous decision to leave her position at NIH in Washington, D.C., and move to Anchorage, Alaska, to work with Denali Healthcare Specialists to serve the needs of Alaskans. Recently she was a case manager of the Arctic North Slope Native Association.

She embraced this new chapter of life—the state's natural beauty and its meaningful community. She found a spiritual home at Anchorage Independent Baptist Church, where her faith deepened with her circle of friends. She enjoyed singing in her church choir, creative quilting and knitting sweaters—dimensions of the care and warmth she naturally gave to others. In her free time, Jennifer served her community by helping with local events such as the 2024 Arctic Winter Games as an EMT-3 on duty at the rink for international teams.

Jennifer will be remembered for her intelligence and adventurous spirit. With her steady and quiet ways, she made the lives of others better. Her legacy lives on in the many patients she cared for, the community that she chose and the love she shared.

She is survived by her loving parents, Lawrence and Elizabeth Hunt of Sandy Springs, Ga.; Carolyn Hunt Scoular of Sandy Springs; sisters, Emily (Paul) Zeigler of Roswell, Ga., and Allison Skidgel of Hayward, Calif.; as well as five nieces, Rachel (Colin) Treend, Anna Zeigler, Sadie Zeigler, Beatriz Skidgel and Ava Skidgel.

Norman Richard "Rick" Meyer

Feb 11, 1947 -

Mar 8, 2026

In Loving Memory of Norman Richard "Rick" Meyer

Anchorage and former North Pole and Fairbanks, Alaska, resident Norman "Rick" Meyer died of pancreatic cancer on March 8, 2026. A private service will be held for family in Wasilla, Alaska, with a graveside service at Fort Richardson National Cemetery later in 2026.

Rick was born on Feb. 11, 1947, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Norman and Eileen Meyer and raised in Beaver, Pa., where he graduated from Beaver High School in 1965. He also earned his Eagle Scout Award, the highest rank in the Boy Scouts of America program. In 1969, he graduated from Colorado State University with a bachelor's degree.

Rick served on active duty with the Air Force from 1969, coming to Alaska in 1975, until 1978 when joined the Alaska Air National Guard. He continued to serve until his retirement in 2000, attaining the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He was the first Security Police Master Sergeant in the history of the Alaska Air National Guard.

Rick worked for the Alaska Department of Labor for over 20 years as an Employment Specialist and helped many Alaska veterans all over the state find employment. He also felt privileged to be an Alaskan and live in the beauty that is Alaska.

Rick was active with the Boys Scouts, the Fairbanks and North Pole Chambers of Commerce, Youth Litter patrols and served as a board member with Alaskans for Litter Prevention and Recycling. He also served on the Tony Knowles Alaska State Veterans Advisory Board and was the Alaska Department of Labor's representative on a national level for state agencies for eight years and helped to found the Interior Veterans Advisory Committee in Fairbanks. He was a member of the American Legion, VFW, DAV and the Air Force Association, as well as a volunteer at the Museum of Transportation and Industry in Wasilla.

Rick is survived by his wife, Orlanda, of 56 years; three children, Christopher Meyer (Sunanta), Richard Meyer (Shelly) and Amy Martin (Nathaniel); four grandchildren, Henry Meyer, Maya Meyer, Ryan Martin and Jessica Martin; and four siblings, Patricia Merz, John Meyer, Pamela May and Daniel Meyer.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Eileen Meyer; father, Norman Lee Meyer of Pennsylvania; and grandson, Riley Martin, of Palmer, Alaska.

John Peter Mitchell

Jan 13, 1944 -

Mar 19, 2026

John Peter Mitchell, 82, of Anchorage, Alaska, formerly of East Haven, Conn., passed away on March 19, 2026, surrounded by his family.

John, or Peter as he was known by his family, grew up in East Haven and joined the Air Force a year after graduating from high school although he didn't know what he wanted to do when he grew up. He spent the next 27 years traveling the world until he retired from the service in 1990 and was able to move back to Alaska. He then spent another 18 years working for the State of Alaska in Department of Transportation before fully retiring in 2010.

He loved model railroads, any time spent at his cabin in Cooper Landing and taking care of his dogs. He spent most of his retirement volunteering at St. Benedict's Catholic Church and Lumen Christi Catholic High School. John was known for being a jack-of-all-trades, as he was able to fix most anything, the love and care he gave to his family, and for his sense of humor.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia; daughter, Alicia; son-in-law, Floyd; grandchildren, Stephen and Vance; sister, Suzanne; and many other relatives.

A funeral service will be held on March 31, 2026, at 3 p.m., at St. Benedict's Catholic Church in Anchorage, followed by full military honors. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Lumen Christi Catholic High School.

Katy Nalley

Apr 13, 1931 -

Feb 8, 2026

Heaven opened its gates to beloved Katy Nalley, age 94, in Anchorage, Alaska, on Feb. 8, 2026. Katy was endearingly called by some "little tyke," a personality punctuated with a fantastic sense of humor and quick wit. She was a beautiful lady of great refinement - well known for her gourmet dinner parties, immaculate table settings and excellent taste in everything from wine to art.

Katy was born in South Carolina on April 13, 1931. On Dec. 4, 1949, she married Doug Blankenship and went on to have three beautiful children: David, Julie and Wayne. During this time, Katy traveled the world and even spent a year in the "Little White House" in Tulsa.

In 1964, Katy married Max Nalley, which led her on an Alaska adventure during Max's career with Exxon. She fell in love with the beauty and close community of Alaska and decided to stay forever after Max passed away in 1988.

Over the years, Katy volunteered for numerous organizations, including serving as President of the Petroleum Wives Club and Board of Directors for the Performing Arts Center. Katy was most honored to serve as the Vice Chancellor of the Chaine DeRotissuers - a worldwide, exclusive gourmet club.

Katy married Roy Howard in 2002, which marked her final chapter in Alaska with many years of loving companionship, travel, music and memories made with friends and family.

Katy is survived by Roy Howard; children, Julie and Wayne; grandchildren, Kyle, Kari, Randi, Casey, Jeff and Amanda; and nine great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by Doug Blankenship, David Blankenship and Max Nalley.

Katy leaves a legacy of impact for all those who experienced her acts of service, her joy of cooking, her penchant for adventures on skis, traveling and exploration— but most of all, her love and good humor.

A celebration of life will be at the Petroleum Club of Anchorage on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.

There, we can share stories and a toast together in honor of Katy, "To lost friends and absent companions."

Earl Thomas "Tom" Pargeter Sr.

Jan 2, 1930 -

Sep 20, 2025

On Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025, Earl Thomas "Tom" Pargeter Sr., age 95, of Anchorage and Willow, Alaska, and Vashon Island, Wash., exchanged his temporary home on earth for his eternal home in heaven with God and his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He passed peacefully, surrounded by his family.

Tom was born on Jan. 2, 1930, in West Seattle, Wash., the son of Earl Vincent Pargeter and Olive Catherine (Meyers) Pargeter. A 1948 graduate of West Seattle High School, he went on to earn his degree from the University of Washington in 1952. While there, he met the love of his life, Constance "Connie" Leigh Ellingsworth, in a psychology class. They were married on Sept. 16, 1951, and had just celebrated 74 years together.

"He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord." —Proverbs 18:22

In 1953, Tom was drafted into the U.S. Air Force and stationed in Sacramento, Calif. Following his service, he began his banking career in Seattle in 1956, later joining National Bank of Alaska in 1960. Over the years, he rose from Teller to Senior Vice President, retiring in 1993. Known for his leadership, he was once named "Boss of the Year," and he also taught at Robert Morrison's Associates School of Banking.

Tom loved his work, but his greatest joy was his family. In 1969, he and Connie purchased a cabin on Rainbow Lake in Willow, where they built a family retreat that became a gathering place of love, laughter and memories. Later, they divided their time between Alaska, Arizona for Mariners Spring Training, and Vashon Island, depending on the season.

A lifelong learner, Tom loved reading, note-taking and studying the Bible. He was devoted to his Lord, to the UW Huskies, to the Seattle Mariners and, above all, to his family. He lived with open hands—generous, kind and always giving of himself and the blessings God entrusted to him.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, William "Bill" Pargeter. He is survived by his beloved wife, Connie; their five children: Catherine Leigh Crew, Nancy Ann Bentley, Victoria Sara "Vicki" Pargeter, Stacy Lynn Hotes and Earl Thomas Pargeter Jr.; along with sons-in-law, Thomas Bentley Jr. and Jack Hotes; and daughter-in-law, Janet (Speedy) Pargeter.

He was blessed with 12 grandchildren: Sara (Bentley) Palmer, Macey (Bentley) Boughter, Samantha Bentley, Thomas "Boomer" Bentley III, Stacy Hotes-Aprato, Jana Hotes, John Thomas "JT" Hotes, Earl Thomas "Tommy" Pargeter III, Michael Pargeter, Allison (Pargeter) Johann, Earl Charles Crew and Bryan Crew; and with 16 great-grandchildren.

"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them." Psalm 127:3–5

Tom's quiver was indeed full and overflowing. He will be remembered as a man of faith, honesty, generosity and family devotion. His legacy continues in each of us.

Alaska Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 1 p.m., at First Baptist Church, Long Lake Road in Willow.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial gifts be directed to Samaritan's Purse Disaster Relief.

Stephen Boshell Potter

Apr 4, 1959 -

Mar 18, 2026

Stephen Boshell Potter, a devoted husband, loving father, cherished son, dedicated uncle and brother, passed away on March 18, 2026, at the age of 66.

Born in 1959 to William and Betsey (Boshell) Potter in Ann Arbor, Mich., Stephen grew up in a close-knit family that valued faith, love and togetherness. He carried these virtues throughout his life, becoming a pillar of kindness and compassion for those around him. As he grew, his faith in God grew, and in difficult times he relied on Philippians 4:7, "the peace that surpasses all understanding."

Stephen was the beloved husband of Sami T. Ali, M.D., with whom he shared a deep, supportive and joyful partnership. Their marriage was a source of profound love and mutual encouragement. He was the proud and adoring father of Emma Potter, who brought immense light and purpose to his world; he cherished every moment of watching her grow and thrive.

Stephen's legacy is one of unwavering family devotion, gentle strength and a life lived with heart and kindness. He was a Master of Social Work who trained in Miami, Fla., where he dedicated himself to helping AIDS mothers and their newborns in the early 1980s AIDS epidemic. He later moved to Anchorage, Alaska, where he worked as a licensed clinical social worker at Providence Alaska Medical Center for 35 years, touching the lives of over 35,000 people through his compassionate care. While at Providence Hospital he served as Assistant Manager in Case Management for nine years, was pivotal in creating a Psychiatric Emergency Department, and mentored many new clinicians, easing the way for patients and staff alike.

His friends and family will remember his quick wit, charming smile and love of laughter. Although proud of his social work degrees, he was equally as proud of being a member of Costco since 2004. At work in the stressful emergency room, he was known for wearing whimsical Hawaiian shirts, bringing an extra touch of joy to those around him.

He is preceded in death by his father, William Sommerville Potter.

He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for the love he gave so generously.

Please join us to celebrate his life at the Angelus Memorial Park, 440 East Klatt Road in Anchorage, on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 2 p.m. As a tribute to Steve, please wear your favorite Hawaiian shirt.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in honor of Steve to the Leukemia Research Foundation, the Blood Bank of Alaska or Bloodworks Northwest. For those who wish to contribute in another way, please consider registering as a bone marrow donor or donating blood products to your local blood bank and give the gift of life.

Your love endures in peace, dear Stephen—beloved husband, brother, father, son, uncle and friend.

Danny Rich

Jul 15, 1953 -

Mar 24, 2026

Lifelong Alaskan Danny Rich passed away at his home in Wasilla, Alaska, on March 24, 2026, due to complications of pulmonary fibrosis.

A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.

Danny was born in Anchorage, Alaska, on July 15, 1953. He was the son of Alva and Mary Lorraine (Rainey) Rich. He was the third born of six children.

Danny spent the first three years of his life living in a cabin built by his father on Park Street in Mt. View. In 1956, he and three other siblings along with his parents moved to a new home on Peck Avenue in the Muldoon area. The Peck Avenue property was always home for many years, whether living or visiting, until 2021.

He attended Creekside Park Elementary School, Clark Jr. High School and East Anchorage High School. He also later attended an electronic tech school.

Danny loved the outdoors and in his early years you'd find him at the rope swing or just romping around in the Muldoon area with friends. He loved skiing, biking, motorcycling, four-wheeling and snowmachining, and flying his airplane.

He also had a love of photography, took up Tae Kwon Do for a few years and learned how to play the bag pipes, his special endeavors he loved very much.

In 1977, Danny and his childhood sweetheart Carla Stahl had a son, Shawn, who was the light of Danny's life. Shawn and Danny had many adventures over the years, camping, snowmachining especially, ATVs and motor bikes. If there was fun to be had, they found it together.

Danny traveled the Alcan at least twice and enjoyed his travels to Hawaii, Nevada and Canada with his wife Shirley; Mexico, Washington, Arkansas and other places with friend Michael Green; Washington state to visit his sister Cheryl and Mike Dyer and family; as well as Hawaii with son Shawn and later with his mom and sister Leonna.

Danny worked various jobs over the years; however, his most favorites were helping with the clean up on the Valdez oil spill and his most recent job where he worked at the YMCA from 1996 to 2019, retiring as Facilities Director. Danny always had fond memories of the YMCA and loved the friendships he established there. The people were special to him, and he was proud to call them his friends and say he loved them.

Danny moved to the Wasilla Senior Center in 2021, where he was living when the Angels called him home.

Danny is survived by his loving son, Shawn Rich and wife Lynsey; wife, Shirley Rich; stepson, Nick MacArthur; stepdaughter, Kimberly MacArthur (Doug) Carla Stahl; sisters and brothers-in-law, Cheryl and Mike Dyer, Rebecca Larson, and Leonna and Dan Kuntze; grandson, Ian Rich; stepgrandson, Damian Starrett; granddaughters, Angel Archuleta, Mickela Maxwell and Mickenzie Erickson (Jimmy); stepgranddaughter, Dahlia Starrett; nephews, Troy and Katie Dyer, Scott Larson and Shane Larson; nieces, Jamie Rich and Mandy Larson; great-nieces, Josslyn and Addelyn Dyer, and Rose Larson; great-nephew, Piercyn Dyer; lifelong friend, Michael Green; and other extended family members and loving friends.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Alva and Mary Lorraine (Rainey) Rich; brother, Jesse A. Rich; sister, Robin K. Rich; and brother-in-law, Einar A. Larson Jr.

Memorial donations may be made to the YMCA, 5353 Lake Otis Parkway, Anchorage, AK 99507, or through their website at ymcaalaska.org, in memory of Danny Rich.

Thorald "Terry" William Schleppegrell

Apr 30, 1953 -

Jan 14, 2026

Thorald William Schleppegrell, "Terry," passed away peacefully in his sleep on Jan. 14, 2026.

Terry was born on April 30, 1953, in Princeton, Minn., to Beverly Joanne (Carlson) Schleppegrell and John Daniel Schleppegrell. He attended Lathrop High School, graduating from Forest Lake High School in Minnesota, class of 1971.

As a young man, Terry served as a medic in the United States Navy. He was honorably discharged on Oct. 25, 1973, at the age of 20, and received the National Defense Service Medal for his service.

Terry worked his entire career in the grocery business, where he was known for his knowledge of store operations and his willingness to help wherever needed. Over the years, he worked at Carrs/Safeway in Anchorage, Alaska, and later at VONS/Safeway in Boulder City, Nev.

Outside of work, Terry earned a Life Master Certificate from the American Contract Bridge League in 1978.

Terry was also a devoted sports fan who closely followed basketball and football. He enjoyed the strategy of the games and the thrill of placing well-considered bets, always appreciating the numbers and probabilities behind the action.

Terry was preceded in death by his brother, Ronald Schleppegrell (2025); father, John Schleppegrell (2019); mother, Beverly Staskanis (2012); and stepfather, Frank Staskanis (1999).

Terry is survived by his son, Jackson Schleppegrell, born on April 12, 1989, in Anchorage, living in South Korea; sisters, Linda Schleppegrell of Fairbanks, Alaska, Karen Schleppegrell Pellouchoud (Dan) of Boulder City, and Tammy Schleppegrell of Las Vegas, Nev.; nephew, Dane and Noelle Beebe (Henderson); nieces, Paige Pellouchoud of Tempe, Ariz., Megan Pellouchoud of South Korea, Amy Pellouchoud of Toluca Lake, Calif.; and great-niece, Hannah Beebe, carrying the family traditions two more generations into the future.

Terry's Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday May 1, 2026, in the Chapel at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City. Friends and family are gathering after the service at Dan and Karen Pellouchoud's house, 385 Cats Eye Drive in Boulder City.

Donald "Don" Shaginoff

Jul 12, 1940 -

Mar 6, 2026

A lifelong Alaskan known for his resilience, humor and deep connection to his community, passed away after a life filled with work, adventure and service. He was born on July 12, 1940, in Sutton, Alaska, behind the Alpine, in a house belonging to Mary Shaginoff, when Alaska was still a territory. Don carried the spirit of the land with him his whole life.

Don lived at the Lazy Mountain Children's Home in Palmer, Alaska, starting in 1948. During those years, he developed the independence and determination that would guide him throughout his life. He graduated from Palmer High School in 1960, where he proudly played basketball and developed lifelong friendships. He attended the Haskell Indian Industrial Training School in Lawrence, Kan., in 1960-1961, earning a welding certificate. Don served in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1969. At Fort Benning, Ga., he earned a Marksmanship Expert rating. During the service, he was a military fabricator. He also worked for the American Can Company in San Francisco, Calif., for two years before returning to Alaska.

Don worked eight years for Marathon Oil Company in Kenai as a production operator. He joined BP-Sohio as a field production operator at Prudhoe Bay from 1977 until 2002. He devoted 25 years to the job before retiring; he also received his certification on the slope as an EMT-3. Don loved to travel and to have a good time, enjoying life during his R & R.

In the 1980s, Don earned his pilot's license and flew a small plane just because he enjoyed flying. He flew for many hours in his personal plane across Alaska. Later, he worked for Chickaloon Village Traditional Council, driving community members to medical appointments for several years. He was honored as the Council's Elder of the Year in 2018, reflecting the respect and appreciation his community holds for him.

Don and his brothers spent countless days hiking Lazy Mountain and Matanuska Peak. Like his father, Don was an avid hunter who provided for others in his community. He said he remembered walking 100 miles in 10 days.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Shaginoff and Mary Nickolai; and brothers and sister-in-law, Paul Goodlataw, Burt Shaginoff, Sandy Shaginoff and James Shaginoff. Don is lovingly remembered by his brother, Lloyd Shaginoff; nephew and nieces, Timothy Shaginoff, Sondra Shaginoff-Stuart and Kari Shaginoff; and many cousins, relatives, great-nieces and -nephews, who carry his memory in their hearts.

Don's gentle stories, steady friendship and kindness will be dearly missed. May his memory be a comfort to those who loved him and an inspiration to cherish the simple, beautiful moments of life.

Jennifer Sylvester

Jun 7, 1974 -

Mar 6, 2026

Jennifer was taken too soon. What a warrior! Jennifer showed exceptional courage, fierce determination and incredible stamina as she fought esophageal cancer to the end. Doctors and other medical personnel were astounded with Jennifer's ability to overcome major hurdles and setbacks throughout her long painful battle. With regrets Jennifer had to end her teaching career early to devote herself to her battle with cancer.

Jennifer was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, and had a career here as an elementary teacher. Jennifer is survived by her spouse Brent and son Cullen.

Jennifer's parents, Noel and Marie Fujimura, and many extended family members, as well as numerous friends mourn Jennifer's passing.

At Jennifer's request, there will be no formal service. Her ashes will be dispersed privately by family at a later date. View the full obituary at www.alaskacremation.com.

Dean Weidner

Aug 5, 1942 -

Mar 17, 2026

Dean Weidner lived with uncommon drive, deep conviction and a generosity that reached far beyond what many people ever saw. He passed away on March 17, 2026, at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy built not only in business, but also in the people, places and communities he loved.

Dean was born in Chicago, Ill., on Aug. 5, 1942, to Walter and Ruth Weidner and was raised in Colorado Springs, Colo., with his sisters, Lynn and Marthann. Adventure came naturally to him. As a boy and young man, he found joy in the mountains, lakes and streams of Colorado. He hiked, fished, snow skied, waterskied and even summited Pikes Peak as a teenager — no small feat, especially considering most kids his age would have been tempted to drive up the gravel road instead. He also worked hard from an early age, first as a paperboy at 12, then as the owner of his own lawn-mowing business and later as a hod carrier during the summers. His ambition only continued to grow as he strived for larger, life-defining goals.

Dean graduated with the first class of Wasson High School in 1960, earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Colorado, and later completed his MBA at Fresno State.

His love for real estate and property management began close to home. As a teenager and college student, he worked as the maintenance technician for his mother's apartment homes. With his father's early guidance, he learned to care for both the properties and the people who lived in them. That experience sparked something in him that never left.

His professional career began in the airline industry with Trans World Airlines, where he worked in San Francisco, New Jersey, and New York City and traveled extensively around the world. He often said Paris was his favorite city. But it was Alaska that captured his heart. In 1973, he joined Alaska Airlines as its first Vice President of Marketing, and through that chapter came to love Alaska, the Pacific Northwest and eventually Seattle, Wash., which became his home.

In 1977, Dean bought the Lafayette Apartments in Seattle's First Hill neighborhood, his first real estate investment and the beginning of what would become Weidner Apartment Homes. In 1979, he stepped away from the airline industry to devote himself fully to the company he would spend the next several decades building.

Over nearly 50 years, Dean grew Weidner Apartment Homes into one of the largest apartment owners in the United States, adding close to 75,000 apartment homes, expanding into dozens of markets and creating opportunities for nearly 2,000 employees. But what mattered to him was never just scale. He believed apartment homes deserved dignity because they were, for many people, the center of daily life, stability and belonging. He believed communities should be invested in, not merely entered. And he cared deeply about the people who worked within the company, taking deliberate steps to help protect their livelihoods and create long-term security for their futures.

Dean also gave generously and thoughtfully. His philanthropy was deeply influenced by his friendship with Elmer and Ed Rasmuson of the Alaska-based Rasmuson Foundation, who helped shape his understanding of focused, meaningful giving. Alaska remained especially close to his heart, and he supported communities across the state, including major investments in Native Alaska causes and the Alaska Native Heritage Center. His giving centered on cultural preservation, higher education, city building and care for people experiencing homelessness. He helped support shelters, permanent supportive housing, youth programs, workforce housing, family services and community spaces designed to restore dignity and hope.

Colorado Springs, the city that helped shape him, also became a meaningful focus of his reinvestment. He supported public art, open spaces and downtown revitalization. Over time, he became deeply involved with the region's only professional sports franchise, the Colorado Springs Switchbacks. What began as sponsorship grew into ownership, culminating in Dean becoming the club's sole owner in 2025, one year after the Switchbacks won the 2024 USL Championship. Around the newly named Weidner Field, he also helped drive a three-phase mixed-use development that will ultimately bring approximately 1,200 apartment homes and 60,000 square feet of retail to the area, transforming a once-neglected part of the city into a vibrant and connected community. In many ways, it reflected what Dean did best: he saw potential where others saw decline, and he invested in places in a way that helped people imagine more for themselves and their city.

He also believed in investing in the future of his profession. Over his lifetime, he supported the development of real estate and property management programs at six public universities, helping create pathways for students and elevating the industry he loved.

Dean received many honors during his life, but those who knew him best will remember something more personal: his instinct, his attentiveness, his loyalty and the way he could move from big ideas to deeply human moments without missing a beat. He was a gifted businessman, but he was also a man who remembered details, asked about people's families and cared in ways that felt real and lasting.

He was a follower of Christ, raised in the Covenant Church, and his faith was quiet but fervent. It showed not in performance, but in the way he lived, gave and loved.

Dean was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Ana Weidner; and parents, Walter and Ruth Weidner. He is survived by his sons, Don Weidner and wife Randi, and Chris Weidner and wife Heather; grandchildren, Emma Duncan Weidner and Dallas Weidner; sisters, Lynn Paydo and husband Bobby, and Marthann Dahlen and husband Chuck; niece, Natalia and husband John; nephew, Erik; and grand-niece and grand-nephew, Brody and Brielle.

He will be remembered as a builder, a giver, a mentor, a man of faith and someone whose life left a mark on far more people than he may ever have fully known.

Anton John Weiss

Feb 20, 1945 -

Mar 24, 2026

Anton John Weiss, age 81, died peacefully in his Anchorage, Alaska, home on March 24, 2026. He was proud to be born and spent his entire 81 years in Anchorage. He was born to John and Clarice Weiss on Feb. 20, 1945, and graduated from Anchorage High School.

He was a longshoreman for 45 years and a member of Anchorage Independent Longshore Union #1, Alaska Teamsters Local 959, The Bartender's Union and The United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 1496.

He loved Alaska, snowmachining and spending time at the family cabin at Big Lake. He was happiest when surrounded by family and friends that he loved. He was known for speaking his mind and telling it like it is. He was tough on the outside, but kind and soft on the inside. He loved his family deeply and was loved right back. He will be dearly missed.

Tony leaves behind his children, Kelli (Steven) Lambe, John ( Devin) Weiss and Casey (Gail) Weiss: grandchildren, Keegan (Lydia) Lambe, Camden Lambe, Caleb (Ashley) Lambe, Jackson Weiss and Berlin Weiss; great-grandchild, Finnegan Lambe; and also Denalee Hurn and Thaddeus Hurn.

There will a Celebration of Life for Tony on March 30, 2026, at 5:30 p.m., at 49th State Brewing Company in Anchorage. His ashes will be spread over Mt. Susitna, Big Lake and Eureka in summer 2026.

Jakob Caesar Whittaker

Jul 2, 1966 -

Mar 11, 2026

Jakob Caesar Whittaker, "Jake," 59, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, while tending to his tomato starts in his new Wasilla, Alaska, home.

Jake spent his early years in Ketchikan before moving to Anchorage, Alaska. He graduated from the King Career Center, worked for B&B Tools for many years, then managed a series of Whittaker Management apartments with his mother. More recently, he enjoyed buying and selling real estate, playing poker, fishing, trying new gardening techniques and expressing his political views to elected officials.

He was preceded in death by his father, Dick Whittaker of Ketchikan; mother, Judy Whittaker of Anchorage; and three dogs all named Groucho.

Survivors include his two beloved dogs, Groucho (the fourth) and Sweetie; siblings, Maxx, Juno with niece Jeorgia, Josh, Jetta with nephew Leo and niece Ruby, and Jed; and good friends, Clint and Theresa Churchil.

At his request, no services will be held; Jake's his ashes will be spread at various fishing holes. To remember him, please speak kindly to a dog and don't forget to vote!