Vivian Aho

Feb 15, 1933 -

Aug 8, 2025

Vivian Jeanne Aho, 92, passed away in her sleep on Aug. 8, 2025, in Anchorage, Alaska.

Vivian spent her childhood in Seattle, Wash., where she was born on Feb. 15, 1933. She had one older stepsister but was otherwise an only child.

During the spring of 1954, she met the love of her life on a short trip to Anchorage. Within a few months she decided to quit her job as a switchboard operator, leave her hometown, and marry Stanley W. Aho.

Stan was a trapper and prospector who spent summers working his gold mining claim near Aho Lake in the foothills of the Tordrillo Mountains and winters in a small log cabin at Canyon Lake near the Skwentna River. Although Vivian had always lived in a big city, she didn't hesitate to climb into a small bush plane and spend her first winter in Alaska isolated from the rest of the world - an adventure she would later recall as one of her fondest memories.

The following summer the couple returned to Anchorage, just in time for the birth of their daughter, Doris. Their son, Thomas was born in 1956, followed by Ronald in 1961. By then the family had settled in Anchorage and spent the 1960s and 70s living in the mostly undeveloped Huffman and Rabbit Creek area.

Vivian was a kind and generous mother, and a wonderful cook. Having lost her mother to tuberculosis at age 10 and subsequently being abandoned by her father, she long searched for belonging—something she finally found in Alaska and in her marriage.

Her life was never easy, but it was rich in love and full of good meals. Over the years she worked as a cook and waitress at numerous restaurants, including the old Rabbit Creek Inn and H&H Lakeview near Talkeetna. In the early 1980s, while the family lived in Seldovia, she owned and operated the Harbor Inn Cafe.

Vivian had a green thumb and loved gardening, filling her yard with flowers and her greenhouse with tomato plants. She also enjoyed crocheting and learned to quilt from the women of the Funny River Quilters while living in Soldotna.

A couple of years after Stan passed away, Vivian moved back to Anchorage to be closer to her daughter, who provided endless love and support whenever it was needed.

Vivian requested that her ashes be spread over Aho Lake, where her late husband's ashes were released years earlier.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Doris and Doug Hodgson of Anchorage; son and daughter-in-law, Ronald and Dunya Aho of Kenai; sister-in-law Mary Jane Hernandez of Lafayette, Calif.; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and extended family across the U.S. and Germany.

Paisley Quinn Atkinson

Nov 6, 2012 -

Nov 16, 2025

Paisley Quinn Atkinson, age 13, passed away in Anchorage.

Paisley was born in Anchorage to Niall and Maria Atkinson. She was a full-time student and aspiring graphic designer who had a talent and a passion for drawing anime.

Her family writes "Paisley was the kindest, sweetest girl, always trying to make everyone laugh. Her heart was pure joy, and her bright spirit touched everyone that knew her. "

Paisley is survived by her parents, Maria Atkinson and Niall Atkinson; brother, Paxton Coe; sisters, Bexley and Xolia Atkinson; "Gammy" Lucy Davidson; "Poppy" Phil Davidson; "Geepa" Lester Atkinson; aunts, Marissa Davidson and Kerry Pyne; uncles, Cory Atkinson and Kris Immel; cousins, Fallon Pyne and Evelyn Immel; stepmom, Damaris Arroyo; great-grandmother, Mary Acosta; and godmother, Nadine Lambert. In death she follows great-grandmother, Katherine Atkinson; great-grandparents, E.G. and Gearline Davidson; and grandmother, Deborah Cornaire.

A service was held in Anchorage on November 24 with Paxton Coe, Bexley Atkinson, Fallon Pyne, Evelyn Immel , Taylor Faudre and Mariah Constantine serving as pallbearers.

"Second star to the left and straight on 'till morning".

Kenneth Berlin

Jan 29, 1943 -

Nov 14, 2025

Kenneth Herbert Berlin, 82, formerly of Anchorage, AK, and lately of Sedalia, MO, passed away on Friday, November 14, 2025, in Columbia, MO.

Ken was born on January 29, 1943, in Sedalia, MO, the son of Herbert and Gertrude (Dorsey) Berlin. He was a proud graduate of Sacred Heart High School, Class of 1960, and went on to attend St. Louis University before being drafted into the United States Army, where he honorably served while stationed in Germany.

On May 27, 1967, in Sedalia, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Sandra "Sandi" Sue (Bennett) Berlin. Together they built a beautiful family and welcomed two children: Charles "Brad" Berlin and Elizabeth "Beth" Bystedt.

In 1975, Ken moved his young family to Anchorage, Alaska, where he worked as an engineer for Morrison Knudsen on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Alaska quickly became home, and for 50 wonderful years Ken and Sandi embraced everything the state had to offer. Ken was an avid outdoorsman who cherished camping, fishing, gardening, and restoring classic British sports cars. He was deeply engaged in his children's lives, serving as a Boy Scout leader, BMX coach, and enthusiastic supporter at countless sporting events and activities.

Ken and Sandi loved hosting friends and relatives at their Hillside home, sharing their pride in the Alaskan way of life. They also treasured traveling internationally and never missed a grandchild's birthday - making frequent trips from Anchorage to Oregon and Washington to celebrate with family. Many of the Berlin family's most cherished memories were made gathered around the dinner table, sharing meals, stories, and laughter.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife of 58 years, Sandi; his children, Charles "Brad" (Carolyn) Berlin of Portland, OR, and Elizabeth "Beth" Bystedt of St. Louis, MO; his grandchildren, Bennett Berlin, Lauren Berlin, and Hunter Bystedt; his brother, Robert Berlin; his sister, Martha Osredker; and eight nieces and nephews.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Franz Berlin; sisters-in-law Peggy (Rollins) Berlin and Cathy (Landes) Berlin; and his niece, Laura Berlin.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Friday, December 5, 2025, at Rea Funeral Chapel, Sedalia. The family will receive friends at 2:00 p.m. until service time at the chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Caring Hearts and Hands of Columbia, 1307 W. Broadway, Columbia, MO 65203, or online at: www.caringheartandhands.org/donate/.

Diane Carpenter (Shahin)

Oct 25, 1932 -

Mar 22, 2025

Diane Carpenter, formerly of Bethel, Alaska, born Diane Shahin on Oct. 25, 1932, died on March 22, 2025, in Alamos, Sonora, Mexico, where she lived for many years. She was 92. Diane died the way she wanted to, at home, thanks to the care of her longtime staff and her brother Steven Vollertsen. She would have adored the farewell fiesta in her honor, to which her whole community of Alamos, as well as Alaska and beyond via livestream, was invited.

Diane was born in Florida, attended university and met her husband Bob in Kentucky, and then moved with him to Alaska in the early 1950s. She detailed many adventures of those years in Territorial Alaska and early statehood in her memoir, "The Winter of The Orange Snow," such as bringing the first car to Bethel, electrifying rural Alaska by helping form the Alaska Village Electric Cooperative, creating the Tundra Women's Coalition and advocating for the health and wellness of women and Alaska Natives. She was a teacher, pilot, storyteller, accidental trophy moose hunter, innkeeper and thrower of memorable theme parties that sometimes lasted for days. She would talk business, politics and world news for as long as anyone would let her, and she never missed a chance to play chess with anyone brave enough to take her on.

Whether in Bethel or in Alamos, Diane played an outsize role in her community. In the last year of her life, she completed her second memoir about her life in Stony River and the history of early electrification in rural Alaska. Additionally, she was recognized by the University of Houston for her role as a delegate from Alaska, in the 1977 National Women's Conference. She remained knowledgeable and passionate about world affairs as well as issues in her community.

Diane's archives are currently being digitized so that her experiences and achievements may never be forgotten.

Diane was preceded in death by her husband, Bob; daughter, Jeannie; and brothers, Doug Earley and Don "Buddy" Shain. She is survived by her daughters, Cathy (Fred) Janvrin, Lisa (Tim) Meyers and Julie Carpenter; son, Robert "Chip" (Donna) Carpenter; sister, Paula Easley; brothers, Rick Vollertsen and Steve Vollertsen; 14 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Joseph "Joe" Eli Hess

Nov 24, 2025

Joseph "Joe" Eli Hess, 69, passed away on Nov. 24, 2025, in Perryville, Mo., after a long battle with cancer.

Joe was born in Morgantown, W. Va. in June 1956. In 1960, his family moved to Anchorage, Alaska. He graduated from East Anchorage High School in 1974. After graduation Joe worked as a commercial fisherman and then on the Alaska oil pipeline as a roughneck. This was the start of a forty plus year career in the oil and gas industry with Halliburton. Joe earned two degrees, a B.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering and a B.S. degree in Petroleum Engineering. Joe is a named inventor on twenty-one United States and foreign patent applications and patents in the oil and gas industry.

Joe lived various places including Alaska, Texas, Louisiana, Canada, and retired in Missouri. He traveled the world with his work to Europe, Africa, Indonesia, the Philippines, the Middle East; and East Asia. He enjoyed the outdoors through hunting, fishing, and travel.

Joe is survived by his wife, Jeanne (Rohlfing) Hess; daughters, Lindsey (Clinton) Browning, Tonya Vincent and Brittany Trahan; sons, Eli (Amber) Hess, Andrew Hess and Aaron Hess; Chad (Andrea) Beckert, Carl (Leslie) Piatt; several grandchildren; sisters, Melinda Dewey and Karen Parks; brother, Andy (Dianne) Hess; and many extended family members.

A memorial service/celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date.

In memory of Joe Hess, contributions may be made to MD Anderson Cancer Center, P.O. Box 4486, Houston, TX 77210-4486 or online at MDAnderson.org/Gifts.

Ford & Young Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Beverly Hiett

Apr 27, 1944 -

Nov 19, 2025

Beverly Jean Charity Hiett died on November 19,2025 at age 81.

She was born to Urban and Jean Charity on April 27,1942 in Nampa, Idaho. She was the oldest of 4 daughters, Beverly, Rosalie, Phyllis and Janet.

Beverly met EJ Hiett in Happy Camp, California and joined him after he was transferred to Alaska with the Army. They were married on May 17, 1966. The couple had 3 children, Melanie, Jeffrey "Scott", and Erik. They bought their home in Eagle River, Alaska in 1968 and settled in to raise their family. Her children and their spouses, Howard Goff, Darcy Hiett and Shannon Hiett, will always remember an amazing mother, strict and loving who was there when needed to help, listen or advise or just to share a great recipe!

Bev was known for her fabulous cinnamon rolls, homemade bread, pies, & cookies. She was active in the LDS church. She leant her beautiful alto voice to the church choir, taught classes and, for a time, lead the women's group. Over the years she also became the quiet confidant to all who needed a listening ear.

Beverly worked as a volunteer for the Red Cross teaching first aid, cpr and preparedness classes. She worked with people at church & in the community to make sure they had emergency kits and food & water stored for an emergency. She regularly donated blood for many years.

After her children were older, Bev started a day care. She loved crafting and baking and her daycare kids loved joining her in these activities. When her own grandchildren started arriving, she took care of many of them while their parents worked. She was the genealogical researcher and record keeper for the family and travelled to England to meet and document relatives & ancestors.

Bev leaves 9 grandchildren and 1 great granddaughter. Corbin, Ava, Weston, Alex, Porter, Brock, Isabelle, Caleb, Drew & Ida and will miss her greatly.

She is proceeded in death by her parents and sister, Phyllis.

A memorial service was held at the LDS church 10012 Chandalar St, Eagle River, AK 99577 at 11 a.m. on Sat., Nov 29th. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Alzheimer's Assoc.

Lawton Holman Knight, Jr.

Jul 18, 1941 -

Nov 21, 2025

Lawton Holman "Dutch" Knight, Jr. was born on July 18, 1941, in Greenville, S. C., to Mr. Lawton Holman Knight Sr. and Mrs. Ethel Gaffney Knight. The eldest of five children, Dutch grew up surrounded by a large, loving extended family in South Carolina. He graduated from Greenville High in 1959 and attended the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill on a football scholarship. He later transferred to Furman University, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business.

In the early 1970s, after vising his best friend in Alaska, Dutch fell in love with the beauty and opportunity in the "Last Frontier." In 1974, he moved to Juneau with his first wife, Judy Gettys Knight, and their three children. A few years later, Dutch relocated to Anchorage with his second wife, Carrie Mortell-Brawley, where they raised four children. Anchorage remained his home for the rest of his life.

Dutch was a salesman, businessman, and entrepreneur, but above all, he considered himself a lifelong student. He read, watched, and learned about a wide variety of topics and encouraged those around him to do the same. He loved nature and cherished time outdoors with family and friends – walking, taking photographs, fishing, camping, and hunting.

Dutch lived and loved unapologetically. He was generous, funny, intelligent, unconventional, caring, stubborn, inclusive, sarcastic, witty, and deeply loving. Nothing mattered more to him than his children and grandchildren, who were his greatest pride. Though he did not meet every grandchild in person, he treasured each one, studying their photos and celebrating their families and accomplishments. His favorite titles were "Grandpa" and "Papa," and a smile or hug from a grandchild was the greatest gift he could receive.

Dutch was preceded in death by his mother (1973), father (1974); sister, Susan Knight Surles (1978); and brother, Frank Knight (2001). He is survived by his sister, Emily Knight Surles; and brother, John Knight (Sharon). He also leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in the lives of his eight children: Dutch III, Lesslie, Christopher, Jason, Dustin, Nicole (Mike), Danielle, and Michelle (Darion); 23 grandchildren: Dutch IV, Courtney, Abbey, Maria, Mia, Kallen, Kolby, Augustine, Aspen (Zach), Noah, Alexandra, Kylianna, Samira, Catriona, Ravynn, Kayla (Jake), Mia (Troy), Gregory, Jacob, Ali, Liam, Braylon, and Xavia; and five great grandchildren: Kaden, Juliet, Marlee, Miriam, and Rockelle.

Special thanks to the many individuals who provided Dutch with compassionate care over the years: Dolly, Ramil, Ashley, Lexi, Rommel, Seann, Mo, Sue, Sister Cecelia, Jeff, Jennifer, Shaina, and countless others. A very special thanks is extended to Carrie Mortell-Brawley, who was with him and ensured he left this world with love, care, compassion, and dignity.

In lieu of flowers, Dutch's family asks that you honor his memory by spending time with a loved one, visiting a senior, or sharing companionship with a resident of a nursing facility.

"My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." -Psalms 73:26

Earl Prentice Lackey

Feb 13, 1940 -

Nov 16, 2025

On Nov. 16, 2025, Earl Lackey, loving husband and father of four children, passed away at home, of pancreatic cancer, at the age of 85. Earl was born Feb. 13, 1940 in Burlington, Wis., to Prentice and Larka (nee Storm) Lackey, and raised on farms in East Troy and Waterford, Wis., developing a strong work ethic and the habit of early rising. His love of shooting was mentored by his neighbor, Eli Cook. He graduated from Waterford High School and attended Luther College, Decorah, IA, majoring in engineering. Unable to afford a return to college, he served in the US Army in Germany as a spec 5 in helicopter maintenance during the building of the Berlin Wall. Returning home, he worked as an engineer for Burlington Brass Works. He married Karen Ann Zuiker on July 11, 1964. He founded Waterford Racing Motors and worked for JI Case as a service representative.

Moving to Curtis, Wis., Earl was a salesman for Galvin Tractor Co and developed a 70 head dairy. Selling the farm, the family moved to Point McKenzie, Alaska, in 1983 where they developed a 240-cow dairy under contract. Earl then worked as a service representative for NC Machinery and then as a heavy equipment salesman and later, vice-president of Yukon Equipment Inc. In 1995, he entered into Top End Inc. to re-furbish Alaska Raceway Park. In 1998, he bought out his partners and spent the rest of his life on his passion—auto racing. Although he was president-owner of ARP, he was most visible in jeans and a denim work shirt as the "janitor" grooming the NHRA drag strip or driving the pace car on the NASCAR oval track.

Earl was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Audrey Goehner. He is survived by his wife, Karen; four children, James (Renee), Michelle, Michael, and John (Heather); five grandchildren, Tanner, Morgan, Makaela, Kaden and Teddy; and "adopted" son, Jonas (Gailene) Mast; brother, David; nephews, nieces and numerous friends.

His love of shooting is evidenced by his lifetime membership in NRA, annual trips to WI for hunting whitetail deer, hunting for Kodiak grizzly and an elk on Afognak Island, and pheasant hunting WI and SD. He was a long-time board member and past president of Matanuska Valley Sportsmen, shot league skeet shooting at Grouse Ridge with the Valley Boyz and SASS shooting with the Alaska 49ers. He lovingly cared for his gun collection saying the second amendment says we have a right to keep and bear arms but it says nothing about selling them. He was a lifetime NRA member. He enjoyed restoring cars—'67 Vette, '69 El Camino—and an old Case farm tractor. He helped all four of his children build their own cars as they were growing up. He was a founding member of King of Kings Evangelical Lutheran Church, serving as elder and council president. He served on the board of directors at Matanuska Telephone Association for over 20 years moving the co-op into the era of cell phones, internet and DTV. He was active in local politics serving as District 12 treasurer for the GOP, attending district and state conventions and was the oldest Alaskan delegate to the 2024 Republican National Convention.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Nov. 28, 2025 at Janssen Funeral Home in Wasilla. Donations in lieu of flowers may be sent to Earl and Karen Lackey Scholarship fund at UAA https://qrco.de/lackey

Maggie Oliver

Nov 23, 1942 -

Nov 22, 2025

Born in 1942 in Cantwell, Alaska, Maggie Oliver learned traditional values and practices of the Ahtna people, from her Mother Alice Norton, Grandmother Jennie Peters, and Uncle Henry Peters. Maggie grew up hunting, fishing, trapping, berry picking, hauling water, and sleeping on a homemade feather bed. Maggie was quick to share a story of ice skating on the Jack River, the one room schoolhouse with her cousins, learning to drive a truck to haul wood, riding the train to Anchorage, or mischief created with her siblings, Bud, Erick, Irene, and Nellie. Maggie moved to Mendeltna, Alaska with Grandma Morrie and Grandpa Joe Secondchief to attend high school in Glennallen, and she later went to Anchorage High. Every memory Maggie shared of her young life was filled with the lessons that taught her about hard work, and made her the resilient woman she became.

In 1964, Maggie married Tom Oliver, and God's love was put into action. In their home on Friendly Lane, friends and family took care of each other, forgave one another, shared love, and had fun. Maggie shared the value of fun and laughter when she made up the crazy food night, started the family's legendary food fights or water fights, or took your photo when someone put you in the garbage can. Maggie often laughed that Tom got fed up with her complaining that the couch, drapes, and carpet did not match, so he bought her a half-circle, patchwork, sectional couch that he said matched everything. Tom and Maggie's numerous friends and family remember that couch, whether they crashed on it for a night, a month, or kicked back for a holiday gathering. Just as Maggie's home was open to all who needed a safe place, her arms were open for a hug, her heart was open to those who were weary, and her ears were open if you needed to talk.

Maggie treasured being a mother, aunt, and grandmother. Her five daughters, Terri, Steena, Loann, Rhonda, and Leann, had friends that called Maggie, "mom" because she shared love and kindness so unconditionally. Maggie's most cherished titles are from her eight grand kids and four great grandkids who call her G.G., Grandma, Granny, Mummo, Grammy, Grantie, and The BadAssGranny.

Faith in the Lord and that he would provide, was the foundation for Maggie's generous spirit and legacy of love.

Cherry Diane Prewitt

Feb 15, 1950 -

Nov 16, 2025

Cherry (Lenzini) Prewitt, who went by Sherry, peacefully passed on Sunday, November 16, 2025 at 75 years old in Anchorage, Alaska. She was surrounded by her family who love her dearly.

Born in Longview, Texas, Sherry and her family moved to Anchorage, Alaska in 1956. Her father, Joseph Lenzini, started a cab company; her mother, Mary Louise Lenzini, was a homemaker. Sherry loved Alaska and had no intention of leaving her home.

Sherry made friends easily with her quick wit and compassionate nature. She enjoyed the Anchorage nightlife of the 70s, and met many of her lifelong friends while cheering on local bands. She continued brightening days everywhere she went, most notably at Fred Meyer on Dimond where she worked as a cashier. She would often share stories of the coworkers and customers she connected with, speaking fondly of the many folks who were determined to stand in her line, despite quicker options, just to chat with her.

As a mother, Sherry worked tirelessly in and out of the home to support her family. She raised her children with unconditional love, patience, and humor. Laughter was a staple in their home. Outside of work and family, she often visited with old and new friends, never too busy for a slice of pie or a margarita.

She is survived by her closest friend and partner, Jerry Watson; her son, Eugene Peagler-Watson, and his wife Denise Peagler-Watson; her daughter, Lisa Watson; her cat, Bubblegum; and her beloved granddaughter, Kiara Peagler-Watson, who brought so much joy to her life.

A celebration of Sherry's life will be held on December 6th, 2025 from 1pm to 4pm, at Amvets Post 2 (855 E 38th Ave. Anchorage, AK 99503). Flowers are welcome, but a donation made to an animal shelter is preferred.

Sherry was known to be considerate, generous, and endlessly helpful. The legacy she leaves is one that encourages us to work hard, love hard, and be kind.

Robert Smith

Jul 11, 1943 -

Nov 21, 2025

Robert "Bob" Smith, 82, of Anchorage, Alaska, passed away peacefully at home on Nov. 21, 2025, surrounded by deep love and the quiet presence of family. Born on July 11, 1943, in Union Hill, N.J., Bob carried the values of his East Coast roots with him throughout a life marked by service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice. He made Alaska his home beginning in July 2011, embracing its community and landscape with joy.

Bob lived his calling as a United Methodist pastor, serving congregations in Washington, D.C., New Jersey, and Anchorage. His ministry was shaped by kindness, curiosity, and a belief that faith must be lived actively in the world. A defining personal symbol of his beliefs showed when Bob began growing his beard after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated. Bob vowed to never shave it again, as a reminder of the work still to be done in the world. Bob was known for sermons that made people think, laugh, and sometimes argue, usually all in the same conversation. In both ministry and everyday interactions, Bob led with compassion that touched countless lives.

On Aug. 12, 1966, Bob married his sweetheart, Judith "Judy" Hellmuth, in Washington, D.C. Their partnership of nearly six decades was filled with love, humor, and numerous gatherings and travels with family and friends.

Bob is survived by his wife, Judy; daughters, Judith (Brent) Goodrum and Anna Bourguignon-Lukas; and grandchildren, Emily, Elizabeth, Hannah Goodrum, Logan, and Arianna Lukas. He is preceded in death by his parents, Fred Smith and Anna Bourguignon; as well as five brothers and one sister.

Bob faced glioblastoma following his January 2024 diagnosis with extraordinary strength, humor, and grace. Even in illness, he continued writing, reflecting, and showing deep care for those around him.

Bob loved travel, storytelling, thoughtful conversation, and engaging with new ideas. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, integrity, and fierce love that will live on through laughter, stories, and all those who loved him.

A service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Nov. 29, 2025, at Turnagain UMC, officiated by Pastor Nico Reijns.

George Monroe Taft Jr.

Feb 14, 1932 -

Oct 11, 2025

Mr. George Monroe Taft, Jr., age 93, passed away peacefully on October 11, 2025, in Katy, Texas. Born on February 14, 1932, in Riverhead, New York, George led a remarkable life marked by service, innovation, and a deep commitment to both his profession and his passions.

George's early years in New York laid the foundation for a lifetime of curiosity and dedication. After completing his education at Alfred University with a Bachelor of Arts degree, he later pursued a second Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the University of Alaska – Anchorage.

Following four years of honorable service in the United States Air Force during the Korean War, George embarked on a distinguished career in forensic science. He served as Crime Lab Director for the Texas Department of Public Safety until his retirement in 1984. Not one to rest on his laurels, George continued his professional journey with the State of Alaska's Department of Public Safety. There, he played a pivotal role in establishing the first Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory for the Alaska State Police—a milestone achievement that left a lasting legacy in the field. He retired from this position in 2002.

George was also deeply involved in advancing forensic science beyond his direct work. He served on numerous boards and co-authored the textbook "Forensic Science Today", contributing to the education and training of future generations in his field.

Despite his many professional accomplishments, George often remarked that he "never worked a day in his life," reflecting the joy and passion he found in every endeavor. Outside of work, he was an avid ice skater and dancer—especially fond of ice dancing—a pastime that echoed back to his New York roots and brought him great happiness throughout his life.

George was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy Deane Jackson Taft. He was also predeceased by his parents, George Monroe Taft and Christine Florence Taft.

He leaves behind his son, Scott Taft and Scott's wife Maureen; daughter, Carey Taft Hook Westerbeck and her husband, Leon; as well as grandchildren, Colman Taft, Cameron Hook, Greyson Hook, and Victoria Hook; as well as, his niece and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held on November 29, 2025, at 02:00 p.m. at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home 6300 W. William Cannon Dr, Austin, Texas 78749.

Jerry Eldon Ulmer

Mar 21, 1947 -

Nov 2, 2025

In Loving Memory of Jerry Eldon Ulmer

"Your legacy is every life you've ever touched." — Maya Angelou

Jerry leaves a legacy beyond measure; the lives he touched will forever hold his selfless kindness in their hearts.

Jerry Eldon Ulmer, age 78, passed away peacefully on Nov. 2, 2025, after a courageous journey with Lewy Body Dementia. In his final weeks, Jerry was surrounded by the love and prayers of his family and close friends.

Born on March 21, 1947, in Ontario, Ore., to Eldon and Lillian Ulmer, he soon after traveled with his parents up the Alcan Highway in 1950 to Fairbanks, Alaska. The challenging trip, with three little kids, was accomplished in a new Studebaker convertible. In 1954, his father, a pharmacist, purchased the Rexall Drug on 4th Avenue and E Street in Anchorage. The family then moved to the newest subdivision in town, Turnagain-By-The-Sea. Five years later, another move took them to their self-named "Last Resort," a beautiful, idyllic home situated on Sand Lake. The lake setting offered the perfect environment for Jerry and his four siblings - Brent, Scott, Reed and Sue - to swim, water ski, snowmachine, hunt and fish.

Jerry graduated from West Anchorage High School in 1965, then followed in his father's footsteps by attending pharmacy school at the University of Arizona. In 1970, he graduated with a degree in pharmaceutical medicine. After college, he returned home to Alaska for a time, driving the Alcan Highway in his beloved VW bus - the "Red Baron."

Before beginning his pharmacy career, Jerry returned to Tucson for a year of "fun in the sun." He spent that time living with his best friend, Tom Kelly, and brother Scott. Jerry and Tom traveled around the Southwest pursuing one of their lifelong obsessions - cycling competitions. During a side trip through Mexico, Jerry and a friend climbed Popocatepetl, a giant 17,700-foot volcano.

Upon his return to Anchorage, Jerry built a respected career as a pharmacist. He stood shoulder-to-shoulder with his father, filling prescriptions at Downtown Rexall. His warmth, integrity and compassion made him a trusted and beloved figure in the community.

Jerry was a man of many passions. He obtained his private pilot's license and became the proud owner of an 85 hp Champ airplane, affectionately referred to as the "Guppy." He used the freedom of the skies for sightseeing, visiting remote destinations and joining duck hunting trips with family and friends. Jerry cherished annual trips to the "duck shack," across Cook Inlet, where hunting and camaraderie created lifelong memories. His loyal hunting companions included not only dear friends, but also his beloved Chesapeake Bay retrievers, whom he trained with sometimes limited success.

He loved fly fishing with his brothers, especially during their annual trips to the Talachulitna River. A talented craftsman, Jerry enjoyed woodworking, and like everything he tried, he was a natural. He helped many nieces, nephews and friends create birdhouses, dioramas and elaborate school projects, always patient and proud to lend a hand. He was an avid photographer, including countless hours spent in the red dimness of a darkroom.

Jerry was a natural and accomplished runner, competing in marathons around the globe - including Canada, Paris, and the prestigious Boston Marathon in 1996.

Later in life, Jerry became very involved in the Alaska Run for Women, fulfilling two passions of his: supporting a cure for breast cancer and honoring his love of running.

In 1983, Jerry married Patricia "Patty" McManamin, the love of his life. Together, they built a marriage grounded in adventure, laughter and love until Patty's passing from breast cancer in 2003. Their years together left an enduring bond between Jerry and the McManamin family, who remained close to him throughout his life.

A passion for cars, especially those made in Germany, led to a chance meeting with Raphael "Ralfy" Quepons in 2001. In the ensuing 20-plus years, especially in the last dozen years, Ralfy became his most trusted and dearest friend. They spent countless hours together working on Jerry's cars. His support, friendship and time during Jerry's decline into dementia knew no limit.

Jerry was blessed again when he met Gricelda "Gris" Valencia. They married on Feb. 14, 2021. Gris lovingly cared for Jerry through every stage of his illness, showing him the same steadfast love he had always given others.

He is survived by his loving wife, Gris; brothers, Brent (Sharon), Scott and Reed (Kathleen); the Valencia Family; McManamin family; and many nieces, nephews and friends who adored him.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Patty McManamin; parents, Eldon and Lillian Ulmer; and sister, Sue Ulmer.

A celebration of Jerry's life will be held on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025, from 2-5 p.m., at Culmination Motorsports, 160 W. 91st Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99515.

Jerry's cremains will rest beside Patty's, honoring their enduring love, while a small portion will remain with Gris, a symbol of their everlasting bond.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center or The Patricia McManamin Ulmer Scholarship Fund at the University of Alaska - Anchorage.

Jerry lived with grace, loved deeply and leaves behind a legacy of generosity, adventure and kindness that will continue to inspire all who knew him.