Gretchen Berniece Davidson Brown

Gretchen Berniece Davidson Brown, the last surviving grandchild of Oregon pioneers W. F. Davidson and Anna Catherine Coleman, and E. A. Breyman and Mary Elizabeth Eldriedge, passed away Oct. 27 in Gresham, Oregon, after a short illness.

She was born May 13, 1922, on the family farm at St. Paul, Oregon. A 1945 graduate of the University of Oregon, Berniece worked for many years as a welfare caseworker in Linn and Douglas Counties in Oregon before moving to Sitka with her husband and four children in 1966.

Berniece and her husband Don owned and operated Mud Bay Logging Company and were part owners of Sitka Fuels.  

Once a friend of Berniece, you were a friend for life. In addition to her many beloved St. Paul, Oregon, friends and relations, and the Hilyard House friends of her college years, Berniece was part of a wonderful group of women in Sitka who were devoted to each other. They sustained one another with great affection and good humor.

She left Sitka in 2016 and returned to Oregon.

Always a champion of education, Berniece made sure that any of her children who wanted to completed undergraduate and graduate degrees. Her generosity was legendary. 

Affectionately known as “Grambo” by her grandchildren, Berniece did her best to live up to her nickname, enjoying her time with Justin, Vanessa and Heather Brown as well as Mary and Benedict Goekjian.  

In addition to her grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, Berniece is survived by daughters Gretchen, Ellen, and Laura Brown as well as several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Brown, her son Jerome Brown, and her sister Dorothea Davidson Nelson.  

Gifts in Berniece’s memory can be made to the St. Paul Mission Historical Society, P.O. Box 158, St. Paul, OR  97137 or to Brave Heart Volunteers, P.O. Box 6336, Sitka, AK  99835 or online at braveheartvolunteers.org

Mary Ann Kuzma

Mary Ann Kuzma, 53, of Anchorage, passed away October 22, 2020, at Anchorage Native Medical Center.

She was born in Sitka on May 5, 1967, the daughter of Alice May Moy (T’aawak Neek Tla’a) and Andrew Kuzma. She was the grandchild of Henry Moy (born Moy Gee Pong) and May Molly Brown of Hoonah; and a great-granddaughter of Paul Brown, Kaagwaantaan, Eagle, of the Kook Hit (Box House). She was a Tlingit of Lituya Bay, Yeil (Raven), T’akdeintaan, a Sea Pigeon of the Kaa Shaayi Hit (Severed Head House), and she was very proud of her Alaska Native heritage.

Mary Ann loved God, church, singing gospel and traveling, and would show her happiness with big smiles or by singing her favorite Country or Christmas songs. She loved her mother, family, friends, and animals. She placed them, and their friends and acquaintances, front and center in her life. She found joy and comfort in knowing how everybody was doing, and even if she didn’t know someone well, she enjoyed hearing about them. If you cared about someone, she cared about them, too. When she and her cousin Abby were on the phone together, the conversation would start with how she was, what she had been doing, how everyone else was and then Mary Ann had to have conversations with each of Abby’s dogs.

Mary Ann gained appreciation for Native culture from her mother who was a weaver, basket maker and member of the Noow Tlein (Castle Hill) Dancers; and from her grandmother May, who was a Native speaker and made moccasins and jewelry, beaded art and traditional Native foods.

She was active during her school years, walking for miles, running, dancing, playing soccer and bowling. She attended the Sitka Native Education Program, and was with the Gajaa Heen Dancers from the 6th through 12th grades. When Mary Ann danced, she held nothing back. She danced and sang with her whole heart and soul.

She traveled in Alaska and the lower 48 with the Gajaa Heen Native dance group and the International Special Olympics. She also enjoyed helping to raise funds for local events, dance groups and Special Olympics. She graduated from Sitka High School in 1986.

Mary Ann lived in Sitka, Juneau, Eagle River and Anchorage. She volunteered at libraries, the ASPCA Thrift Store, and more. She liked going to the malls, second-hand stores, and garage sales. After retiring from the Alaska Brewhouse, she traveled more; flying, driving, RV’ing, cruising, or taking ferries in Alaska, Hawaii, California, Oregon and Washington state. Holidays, celebrations, theater shows, musicals, and Christmas and dinner cruises were her thing. She loved photo ops, especially with Santa, the Easter Bunny, and Disney characters.

Abby said “Mary Ann was an inspiration because she was such a constant, dedicated friend and loving family member; always checking in and remembering everyone.”

She had a curiosity about life, often going to the library to thoughtfully pick out books for someone that related to a previous conversation they’d had.

“Don’t get me wrong, it didn’t always go well and, bless her heart, Mary Ann wasn’t always sunshine and rainbows,” a family member said.

“One time she came home with books on Alzheimer’s and dementia and began to firmly explain to her favorite Aunt Mabel exactly what was wrong with her memory. Poor Mom. Tempers flared. It was quickly time to separate them and have one of ‘those’ talks with Mary Ann. Poor Mary Ann. She really did mean well.”

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her grandparents, her dad in 1980, her mom in 2005; and aunts and uncles Marietta (Harvey) Williams, Clarence (Esther) Moy, Walter and Virginia Moy, Mabel Moy, Henry (Peggy) Moy, Patrick Moy, and Joan Derenoff. Mary Ann is survived by her uncle, Nick Derenoff and her cousins.

Alvin, Tamsyn and Abby gave special thanks to Mary Ann’s sister of the heart, Heather Swaney, and to Heather’s family who were very dear to Mary Ann.

For those asking about flowers, the family suggested they keep Mary Ann’s story in mind. She wanted to be back home in Sitka but needed an assisted living home. She had the heart of a champion and kept hoping, but was told there wasn’t anything available.

“It didn’t happen in time for Mary Ann, but it would be great if Sitka had that option for other young people who need it,” a family member said. “So, if you are ever in a position to help make that happen, please do.”

The family expressed gratitude “for the thoughts, prayers, photos and remembrances on Facebook. You can also send them by mail to Abby Cropley, 2010 Kainulainen Dr., Sitka, AK 99835.

Mary Ann has been cremated and is back home. Her ashes and her mother’s will be placed together in the memorial wall at Sitka National Cemetery. Due to COVID19 travel restrictions, her Anchorage memorial service is postponed until May 2021. A service in Sitka hasn’t been planned.

Shirley Ellen Truitt

Shirley Ellen Truitt, longtime Sitkan, died October 30, 2020, at the Sitka Pioneers Home. She was 87.

Shirley was born in Cheyenne, Wyoming, December 28, 1932, to George and Laura (Bloomer) Guilford. She grew up before World War II in Weiser, Idaho, then the family moved to Vancouver, Washington, where her father worked as an electrician at the shipyard during the war.

Most of the early schools that Shirley attended have now been torn down. Her first babysitting job was for two families, where she earned 25 cents per hour. Her first job after high school was packing cookies at Nabisco, then as a waitress. One summer she worked at Timberline Lodge on Mt. Hood in Oregon.

As a sophomore in high school Shirley learned of God’s love and accepted Christ at Young Life weekend camp. Her life verse was 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear, but of power, and love, and of a sound mind.”

She received her associate of arts degree at Clark College in Vancouver, and her bachelor of science degree from Whitworth College. Shirley then moved to Sitka, to teach home economics at Sheldon Jackson High School and Junior College. She also taught home economics at Mt. Edgecumbe High School. She loved Alaska, but left to attend Multnomah School of the Bible in Portland, Oregon. 

She studied under Wycliffe Bible Translators one summer at the University of Washington and another at Oregon State University. She spent three months in southern Mexico at Wycliffe Jungle camp, and spoke often about her experiences with her family. While at jungle camp she almost drowned while learning to scull the rapids. That same evening she read Isaiah 43:2 “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they will not overflow you.”

After Jungle camp, Shirley returned to Sitka, where she married Gil Truitt on May 26, 1962. She loved being married and raising their two boys and one daughter on Japonski Island. She loved being a grandmother to her one grandson and six granddaughters. She loved anything artistic. 

Shirley loved the work of Young Life in Sitka and being on the committee and part of the prayer team. She loved her church, Sitka Assembly of God, the worship service and women’s fellowship. She had a special love for missions and youths. As a young mother, Shirley helped lead a youth group on the island called HIM (Heaven-In-Me club) along with Randy and Julie Hames. Shirley served the Assembly of God congregation in missions as well. For years she would take the missionary newsletters, pray over each of them, and update the missions bulletin board. She always looked forward to her time at Girlfriends on Wednesdays at the local McDonald’s. 

Shirley was an avid sewer and used her talents to make clothes for others. When her children were young there were times she anonymously gave families clothes that she made. In later years, Shirley’s great joy was to make dresses for her granddaughters and the children of missionaries. She loved seeing old things torn down and new things that would take the place. She loved hearing from friends on Facebook. Shirley always spoke well of anyone whom she knew. She gave others the benefit of the doubt and chose to focus on an individual’s positive qualities. 

Shirley was preceded in death by her husband Gilbert Allen Truitt, her parents and her brother Richard Guilford.

She is survived by her children and their spouses, Phil and Eileen Truitt of Snoqualmie, Washington; Ken and Charlotte Truitt of Juneau; and Laura Truitt of Vancouver, Washington. Her grandchildren are Kristina and Clay Ercolin of Stanwood, Washington; Joseph and Alexis Truitt of Newberg, Oregon; Natalya Truitt of Snoqualmie; and Madison Truitt of Seattle, Washington; and Marissa, Sydney and Elena Truitt all of Juneau.

The family requests no flowers at this time and suggests donations to Young Life of Sitka.

Because of COVID restrictions, a public service will be scheduled when it is safe for travel and large gatherings.

The family expressed thanks to all those at the Pioneers Home who cared for her these past couple years – too many to list for fear of omitting some. “We also thank the ladies of Girlfriends and the other many friends who supported both of our parents these past few years,” they said.

Joan “Joni” Didrickson Lewis

Joan “Joni” Didrickson Lewis, a Sitka resident for most of her life, passed peacefully on November 7, with her only son, Larry, at her side. She was 77.

She was born in Juneau on October 9, 1943, the daughter of John Alfred and Mabel (Jones) Didrickson. She was Aanyeiwdu.oo, of the Deisheetaan clan.

She was raised in Sitka, and graduated from Sitka High School. She later received an associate of arts degree from the University of Alaska Southeast.

Joni found great joy in the outdoors, playing in the woods and beachcombing. The oldest of six children, for many years, she was a “tomboy.” She also loved engaging in traditional food gathering, as well as the eating of those “soul foods.”

She was an avid reader, priding herself on a booklist that ranged widely in subject areas. She also immersed herself in traditional Tlingit arts, particularly in beadwork and weaving, and completed many beautiful projects.

Having endured many hardships of her own, she was committed to helping others, whether it was those struggling with addiction, or survivors of domestic violence.

Just as can be said of so many, she loved her friends and family; however, being a decided extrovert, she loved the company of others, and what most will remember of her was her contagious laugh.

Survivors include her son Larry Garrity, his partner, Dionne Brady-Howard, and their children, Vanessa Bradley of Sitka; Jordan of Eagle River; Jamie Garrity of Vancouver, Washington; and Tyler Garrity and Izzy Jackson, both of Sitka.

Also surviving are her sisters, Chris Judy and her husband, Larry Judy, of Big Lake, Alaska, and Jewel Didrickson of Eagle River; brother Clyde Didrickson of Juneau; and numerous nephews, nieces and cousins.

Services are pending, and may be held in the summer if coronavirus restrictions are lifted.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Sitkans Against Family Violence (SAFV).

Lawrence Darrell Poitra

Lawrence Darrell Poitra, 70, passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife and children on November 15, 2020, at Bartlett Hospital in Juneau, after living almost a decade with Stage IV lung cancer.

A long-time Sitka resident, he wanted to be buried at Sitka National Cemetary. As a Vietnam veteran, he was given a military funeral and buried at 10 a.m. November 20 with family and close friends present.

Lawrence was born in Miles City, Montana, on March 6, 1950, at Sacred Heart Hospital to Lawrence Norbert Poitra and Nora Thomas. The youngest of four children, he had three older sisters, Barbara, Debbie and Robin. 

At age 18, he was drafted into the U.S. Army, where he studied hard and was selected to be a radio teletype operator and sent to Lai Khe Base Camp,  passing orders and messages to and from command and soldiers in the field.

After serving his first tour, he was awarded the National Defense Service, Vietnam Service, and Vietnam Campaign medals and honorably discharged.

He often told the story of his return to the United States and how he cried as his plane landed, feeling pride and gratitude at being back in his home country.

After his return to the United States, Lawrence traveled to Alaska, where he fell in love with the state and decided he would stay. It was also at this time that Lawrence’s deep faith truly took root. He was a man filled with faith in God and the love of others.

On a trip back to visit family in Montana, he met his wife, Laurie.

He was intrigued and asked her out the day they met. They were married a year later and had their first son, Jamie, in Miles City in 1978 before returning to Alaska.

Lawrence worked in the grocery business for some time in Ketchikan, Fairbanks, and then in Sitka, where he managed Sea Mart for many years and where his love of people was always apparent.

Sitka quickly became his home, and his sons Jeffrey and Stephen were both born at SEARHC Hospital in 1984 and 1987, respectively.

He then moved on to work for Allen Marine in Sitka and then later in Juneau – something he later said he wished he had done earlier so he could have had more years working with the Allens.

Lawrence loved his work and the people around him, and he also loved and cherished his family.

He is survived by his wife Laurie and his sons Jamie, Jeffrey, and Stephen and two beautiful granddaughters Monáe and Sia.

Iris Barbara Carter

Iris Barbara Carter, who lived almost all of her life in the Hoquiam, Washington, area, died Nov. 17 in Sitka, at the age of 93. She had lived in Sitka since  March  2017, and was a Sitka Pioneers Home resident at the time of her death.

“Mom was a beautiful person,” said her daughter, Barbara L. Sturm, of Sitka. “We couldn’t ask for a better mom. She had a wonderful sense of humor, and was so much fun to be with.

“She is loved and will be missed by all of us.”

Iris was born at home March 14, 1927, in Lebam, Washington, the daughter of Bert and Ardith (King) Nickell. She attended school in Wishkah, outside Aberdeen, and when she was 17 she and classmate Warren Max Carter (also 17 but two days younger than she) got married. He went to work for Rayonier Pulp and Paper Co., and she worked as a grocery store clerk in Aberdeen, at a laundry, and at the Rayonier paper division.

Iris was very active in the Daughters of the American Revolution, and was a member of the Polson Museum and Friends of the Library in Hoquim.

The Carters enjoyed life. They especially liked dancing, and Iris made western costumes for their square-dancing times. Warren Max Clark died in 2013 – “So they are dancing together now,” their daughter said.

Survivors include her daughter, Barbara Sturm (Tony) of Sitka; sons Daniel Carter (Ginger) of North River, Washington, and Albert Carter (Judy) of Hoquiam; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, cousins, nephews and nieces – she had a very large and loving family.

Services are pending in Hoquiam.

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Sitka Pioneers Home.

Terrance “Terry” Moses

Terrance “Terry” Moses, formerly of Sitka, passed away in his home at Wildflower Courts in Juneau on November 13, 2020. He was 58.

Services will be held in Sitka at 11 a.m. Friday, November 27, at the Sheet’ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi community house.

His final resting place will be at Sitka Memorial Park.

Terry was born to Mazie Margaret Moses in Clarkston, Washington, on December 20, 1961. While raised on the Nez Perce Reservation in Lapwai and Kamiah, Idaho, he was immersed in the First Indian Presbyterian Church,  which would be his lifelong support from an early age. 

He moved to Sitka in August 1979 to attend Sheldon Jackson College to study fish hatcheries for the Nez Perce Tribe but fell in love with the Alaska waters. Terry spent the next 40 years employed by Alaska Commercial Fisheries, Crabbing, and Northwest Coast Art.

Being raised as a traditional Nez Perce, Terry had a high regard for cultural activities. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, language and dance, and he passed on his skills and knowledge to his daughter and grandchildren.

Terry was preceded in death by his mother Mazie Moses; sister Susan Seven; his brothers Edward Moses and Douglas Moses; his grandparents Lillian and Elias Moses Jr.; his aunt Elvira “Tweet” (Floyd) Hendren; his uncles Gabriel Moses, Norman Moses and Lester Moses; his father-in-law, Richard Marvin Sr. and brother-in-law Richard Marvin Jr.; and his nephew, Calvin Siems.

Terrance is survived by his wife, Martha Moses; his children Teresa Moses and Teryn Moses Vantrease of Boise, Idaho; his grandsons Andrew Lawrence, Eli Lawrence, Camden James, John James and Terrance James; his aunt Mariam Queen; his sister Leslie (Liam) Randall; his nephews Edward Randall and Evan Randall; his “favorite mother-in-law” Vera Marvin; sister-in-law Donna (Bill) Trivett; brothers-in-law, Wayne Marvin and Dwayne Marvin Sr.; and numerous loving brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Susan Nadine Kinberg Sturm

Susan Nadine Sturm left this life heading for her next adventure on Tuesday, November 24, 2020.

She was born in 1934 in Petersburg to Marvin C. and Alpha K. Kinberg. Susie was a fiercely independent woman who embodied the true Alaska pioneer spirit – there was nothing she couldn’t do. She was a graduate of Sitka High School and attended Sitka Community College before raising her eight children.

Her careers included but were not limited to: bookkeeping for several different companies (including office management for her good friend Carolyn Hammack at Lakeside Grocery); logging at Kidney Cove; commercial trolling and longlining (she was so good at it she caught a 14-foot great white shark while commercial halibut fishing); and, much to her grandchildren’s delight, was known to occasionally work as a substitute teacher and also worked in the cafeteria as a “lunch lady.”

Her final career was working for the Alaska Marine Highway System starting in July 1993 on the good ship Taku as “pots & pans” and working her way up to chief purser on the M/V Malaspina until her retirement 15 years later. Susie loved her job working on the ferry system as it fulfilled both her passion for helping people and being on the ocean.

Susie’s interests were building her remote island home, hunting, sport fishing, trapping (she trapped enough mink to have a custom-made fur parka and made many pieces of jewelry with the soft fur), abalone picking (the hard way, while trying to stay upright on kelp-covered rocks), beach-combing, gardening and volunteering at the White E.

She also enjoyed working with copper repousse, cake decorating (she made numerous wedding cakes for her children’s and grandchildren’s weddings), stained glass and poetry writing (her friend Kay Royce financed the publishing of her book “Poetry of an Alaskan Pioneer”).

She loved to dance, play the accordion, and for many years hosted the bagpipers who were annual visitors on Alaska Day. She also loved participating in the annual Sitka Christmas boat parade, along with her good friends Al and Signe Wilson, Ted Hunt, Joe and Bobbie Whitson and many others. One of her crowd-pleasing designs was a waving Santa, that graced the roof of the wastewater treatment plant for several years after the parade.

Susie is survived by her sister Fay Nelson of Sitka; and eight children; Valorie (Connor) Nelson, Tony (Barb) Sturm, Lyndene (Gary) Downie, Dawn (Randy) Gluth, Jeff (Tammy) Wheeler, Stella (Dan) Shockley, and Leslie Young all of Sitka, and Madeline (Keith) Rake of Lewiston, Idaho, as well as her red-headed stepchild, Christy O’Shaughnessy of Seattle, Washington.

Also surviving are many grandchildren (one of her favorite sayings was “you can never have too many grandchildren or strawberries”), including Marti Jones, Spencer, Cory and Brook Nelson all of Washington State, Kyle (Nadiia) Rice of St. Louis, Missouri, Kendra (Shane) Nicholson of Kodiak, Josh (Leanne) Sturm and James W. Sturm of Sitka, Jeremy (Amanda) Downie of Jacksonville, Florida, Jenna Downie of Lubbock, Texas, Gary Jr. (Koali) Downie of Sitka, Tiffany (Dave) Pearson of Sitka, Theresa (Kyle) Hampton of LaGrande, Oregon, Katherine (Josh) Johnson of Sitka, Emily (Rob) Baldwin of Kapolei, Hawaii, Julia (Trevor) Hyatt of Anchorage, Johanna (Alec) Gluth of Sitka, Jason (Caitlin) Koelling of Temple, Texas, Ashlee (Bryson) Morrow of Jefferson City, Missouri, Tally, Keegan, Casey, Abby and Jack Wheeler all of Sitka, Megan Mary (Chris) Radke of Lewiston, Idaho, Matthew (Casal) Hornaman and Trevor Hornaman of Sitka, Alex and Anthony Raphun of Molalla, Oregon, and Wayne and Jason Young of Sitka.

Forty-eight great-grandchildren and 5 great-great-grandchildren also survive her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Marvin and Alpha Kinberg, her brothers Marvin and Tom Kinberg, her sister Rose Reed, her son-in-law Tom Young and her best friend, Signe Wilson.

A celebration of life will be held at a later time when her family can gather to spread her ashes on her beloved island. In lieu of flowers the family would suggest donations be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

Avis Ann Pederson Murphy

Mother, sister and grandmother Avis Ann Pederson Murphy received her angel wings November 15, 2020, with her three daughters by her side. She was 85.

She was born July 11, 1935, in Columbus, Wisconsin, to Alvin H. Pederson and Maxine V. Adams. 

The first three years of her life she spent on the Adams family farm in Gilman, Wisconsin, before taking the train to Seattle, Washington. On her 11th birthday, in 1946, she arrived in Sitka, on the North Sea at 11 p.m. She spent the next 40 years of her life here and made lifelong friends. 

She graduated from Sitka High School in 1955 and soon after married. By 1959 she had three daughters who gave her the most joy in her life. 

When she was living in Sitka, she spent many summers in Seattle with her grandmother, who loved to go to the movies.

She played basketball in high school with her best friends and worked for her uncle at his cab stand. One year she went to Oregon with a friend to pick strawberries, which she called “the hardest work I ever did.” 

After her daughters were all in school, she went out in the work force, as a cook at the schools, restaurants, amusement center and finally retiring in 1986 from the Sitka Pioneers Home. 

In 1986 she moved to Anacortes, Washington, to be close to her father and brothers but still made regular trips to Sitka for class reunions and visits with family. 

She loved to travel with her friends and family but most of all she loved being around her daughters and grandkids. She never missed a holiday or special event and always went in head-first to help with whatever needed to be done. 

When she was at home in Anacortes, she got involved with the Samish Nation Elders where she helped organize table center pieces for the annual luncheons, did some amazing bead and weaving work, and made some fabulous friends. She loved crafting, spent a lot of time putting together albums of photos, searching her roots and traveling. 

One of her many traits was her contagious laugh. She didn’t do anything extraordinary in her life but she was extraordinary. 

Preceded in death were her parents; brother, Charles Pederson; her sons-in-law Kenneth Records and Gregory Borden; her nephews Thomas, Gregory and Judd Pederson; and sister-in-law Joanne Pederson. 

She is survived by her daughters: Robin Records, Shelby Borden and Tally (Steve Allison); and her brothers, Ronald (Julie) and Allen Pederson. Also surviving are her five grandchildren, Tarra, Shantel, Kassie, Dylan and Cody; nine great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to a charity of your choice. You may send cards to Avis Murphy, 6227 Spradley RD, Anacortes, WA 98221.

A celebration of life is planned in July 2021 depending on the pandemic and to be announced via social media. 

To share memories of Avis, sign the online guestbook at www.evanschapel.com.

Dean Lew

Dean Lew was born on April 16, 1949, in Fresno, California, into a Chinese American family, the son of June and Jack Lew. He died on November 28, 2020, in Cloverdale, Oregon, at the age of 71. 

He grew up in California, Arizona and Wyoming, often working in his family restaurants where he learned the value of hard work. Dean had three older sisters, Paula, Tasha and Kristina, and one younger sister, Tada.

He joined the Army in 1967 and served two tours in Vietnam. It was there he met Lien Tran, while he was building an orphanage (which has been rebuilt as an elementary school) near the pagoda where she was praying each day after the loss of her father.

Lien and Dean married in November 1970 and they started their family of five children in Southeast Alaska. He worked for Don Brown, with the Mud Bay Logging Company, and they forged a long lasting friendship.

Dean later married his second wife, Raynona Blake, who was a loving mother to his children. 

In 1987, Dean reconnected with his biological father, John Wesley Ware (Wes), and his siblings Lance, Brandie and Susan. Dean took his family up to Kenai to spend time with Wes and this was a memorable trip for all involved. 

Dean lived in Alaska for 32 years and spent most of his time in drilling and blasting but also had a spirit of entrepreneurship when he created a business for his daughters called Kona’s Karts. He also owned a furniture store; and the Red Rooster Cafe, in Sitka.

In addition, Dean had a zest for martial arts and taught karate in Sitka with Michael Taylor with the Kenwa Kai Karate Association. In 2002, he retired and took his motor home to California to connect with family; he later made his way to Glide, Oregon, where he lived for 11 years. 

In July 2020, he moved to Cloverdale to be closer to his family, and enjoyed the last several months spending time with his daughter Deana and her two boys, Dixon and Dean.

Some of his recent favorite memories include reconnecting with loved ones via phone; picking out the perfect crab and smoked salmon at Barnacle Bill’s Seafood Market in Lincoln City with his daughter Kona; eating a brined smoked turkey at Thanksgiving with Deana, Jack and the grandchildren; and visiting with his family and friends like Deb and Tim.

Dean loved to read and write poetry. At the age of 7, he went to the Palm Springs Library and purchased “One Hundred and One Famous Poems” for 7 cents at their used book sale. One of his favorite poems from the collection that he shared with his family, friends and colleagues was “Keep A-Goin’!” by Frank L. Stanton:

If you strike a thorn or rose,

Keep a-goin’!

If it hails or if it snows,

Keep a-goin’!

Dean always shared how proud he was of his children. In 2005, he wrote, 

“My greatest hope in raising all of you was for each one of you to be able to make out of this life whatever you wanted. And I see that in each of you. My inner pride of knowing my children can stand their ground because they know right from wrong. And each one of you make Dad feel the glow from each of your souls as I watch and see you grow. 

“And when I write my story I want my children to know that they are stories that come from deep within my heart and soul. If so, how they retell my story as I often do, they’ll realize how much I love them as much as I do.”

Dean will be greatly missed by his children and friends. His quirky sense of humor, courageous spirit and ability to see the good in others are gifts he has passed along to his children.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and June Lew; biological father, Wes Ware; sisters, Tasha and Tada Lew, and his two dogs, both named Caine.

He is survived by his beloved dogs, KK, Bill and Ghengis; his five children, Kona, Jessica, Deana, David and Jack; his six grandchildren, Jeffery, Dixon, Lennox, Ione, Dean and Bexley; his siblings, Paula, Kristina, Lance, Brandie and Susan.

He also will be missed by a multitude of friends, all of whom made lasting memories with him and were fortunate to know him and enjoy his gift of storytelling. During the last few months, Dean often shared how grateful he was for the calm and peaceful chapter of his life in Cloverdale. 

A virtual memorial will be held via Facebook at a later date. The family will have an in-person celebration for Dean in the future.

Robert James Littlefield Sr.

Robert James Littlefield Sr., a lifetime resident of Sitka, passed away Oct. 30, 2020, in Wasilla.

He was born July 18, 1943, in Sitka, the son of Charles L. and Esther (Kasakan) Littlefield. He was a member of the Kiksadi Clan.

Survivors include his wife, Martha (Chuglawk) Littlefield of Napakia. They met in Bethel and were married there Aug. 16, 1968. Their marriage was blessed on Jan. 18, 2001, at the Russian Orthodox Cathedral St. Innocent, in Anchorage.

Over the years, Robert had various jobs, working at the boys dorm at Mt. Edgecumbe High School on Japonski Island, security at the Sitka Pioneers Home, and at the Alaska Lumber and Pulp pulp mill. He cooked at several places – cooking even took him to South Dakota for several years.

Robert was diagnosed with polio when he was young, and he was told he would never walk. That never stopped him from doing all the things he loved. From childhood he cooked and baked with his mom, and fished and hunted with his brothers.

He loved going all out by cooking, baking and decorating on holidays and birthdays. Lots of people wanted his recipes, from his deviled eggs to his fried bread. At Christmas he made cookie boxes and pies to deliver to people.

He was also known for his kindness – he had given away cars and given food and money to those in need.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Esther Littlefield; son Robert Littlefield Jr.; brothers Louis Simpson, Peter Simpson, Joseph Littlefield, Harry Littlefield and William Littlefield; and sister Mary Littlefield.

Surviving are his siblings, Esther Johnson of Sitka and Fred Simpson of Mt. Vernon, Washington.

His surviving children are Barbara Anvil of Anchorage, Laverne (Mike) Hartshorn of Sitka, Evelyn (Ronald) Coleman of Orofino, Idaho, Charles Littlefield III of Juneau, William Littlefield of Wasilla, and adopted son Andy Nichols of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

His grandchildren are Nicole (David) Therchik, Elaine (Shawn) George, Wayne (Jessica) Anvil, Clarice Anvil and Chiara Chase, Nicholai Littlefield, Michelle (Matthew) Hauert, Joanne Littlefield, Melissa (Aaron) Hammock, Tarja Hartshorn and Matthew Hartshorn, Anisah (Taylor) Walton and Alexanderia Coleman, Steven Littlefield and Desiree Littlefield, William Littlefield Jr., Fiery Littlefield, Kayleb Littlefield, and many more great-grandchildren.

Johnny Walter Duncan Sr.

Johnny Walter Duncan Sr., a longtime Sitka resident, died unexpectedly December 9, 2020, at the age of 77. He was at home, surrounded by his children and grandchildren.

Johnny’s Tlingit name was Kaaldeiwtu Éesh. He was from the Kiks.ádi (Frog) clan, a child of the Killer Whale clan, and a member of the Clay House. He was born May 12, 1943, and raised by his parents, Emma and Peter Duncan, in Excursion Inlet and Hoonah. 

Johnny graduated from Chemawa boarding school in Salem, Oregon, in 1961, and then from Edison Tech in Seattle. He joined the Carpenters Union in 1964, retiring in 2006.

 John helped build the JC Penny building in Anchorage, worked in Adak at the government base, Mt. Roberts Tramway in Juneau, Keet Gooshi Heen Elementary School, and the newer Alaska Native Medical Center. He worked at various other monumental buildings across Alaska.

John is survived by his brother Albert Duncan Sr., children, grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He loved subsistence gathering and teaching his children and grandchildren the lifestyle he himself enjoyed, watching and participating in Southeast basketball.

John was a longtime member of the Sitka Alaska Native Brotherhood and the Sitka Pool League. 

John was an active member of the Russian Orthodox Church, the Moose Lodge, and Sons of American Legion.

He was a vocal advocate for the Sitka Sound herring and subsistence. 

He will be truly missed by friends and family. 

Due to COVID-19 there will be a private funeral, and later on a cultural service and celebration of life. The family understands that this is not traditional at all, but John would not want to put the health and safety of his community at risk. 

Questions concerning donations can be directed to Johnny Duncan Jr. 907-738-1595, or Donovan Duncan 907-738-2619.

Mark Thaddeus Bagley

Mark Thaddeus Bagley, son of Cathy and the late Mike Bagley, died December 3, 2020, at Providence Medical Center, Anchorage, following heart surgery. He was 45.

Mark was born at Sitka Community Hospital April 3, 1975, and attended Sitka schools. In December 2001 he graduated from the University of Alaska Anchorage with a bachelor’s degree in nursing.

After a short time he decided nursing was not what he wanted to do and began a career in car sales – a pursuit he thoroughly enjoyed.

While a teenager, he accompanied the Boy Scouts and his father on one of their Yukon River canoe trips. It was a trip he remembered with much pleasure.

He discovered boxing in Sitka and later joined a boxing club in Anchorage. He also enjoyed participating in Anchorage marathons. 

He married Tisha Ryan December 5, 2012, in Anchorage, and they relocated soon after to Sitka, where they started a handyman business, Mark’s Enterprises.

Mark loved being outdoors fishing, camping and hunting. He spent a lot of time with his daughter swimming, berry picking, visiting the Sitka Sound Science Center, Fortress of the Bear and the library, playing video games, and looking for birds at Blue Lake, and was starting to teach her gun safety and how to shoot.

He and his daughter shared hobbies, including collecting fossils and were building a large collection of shark teeth, gem stones, and some artifacts. He had bought a telescope recently so they could begin star gazing.

Always curious about the world around him, Mark enjoyed online lectures from Great Courses on ancient history and other subjects. He was also an avid coin, gold and silver collector and trader, and was a member of American Precious Metal Exchange (APMEX).

Although he was not a group joiner, he spent much time and effort helping others, and worried about others’ needs, especially the homeless, seniors and anyone who was hurting. He was always looking for ways to give people a second chance or a hand up, and thanked those who helped him. He was extraordinarily generous and kind.

The most important love in his life was his family and, above all else, his daughter Ellen, 7.

In addition to APMEX he was a member of the Sitka Lutheran Church, Sitka Sound Science Center and Fortress of the Bear.

He was preceded in death in March by his father, Mike. He is survived by his mother, Cathy, and daughter Ellen Bagley, both of Sitka; sister Laura (William) Mallula, Fairbanks; and nephew Billy (Nicole) Mallula and children, Easton and Taron, of North Pole.

He also is survived by aunts and uncles Thad and Sandy Poulson of Sitka, and Gary and Debbie Bagley of Simpsonville, S.C.; great-aunts and -uncles; and numerous cousins.

His grandparents were Gail and Louise (Nelson) Bagley of Sitka and Tom and Grace Montgomery of Silver City, New Mexico.

Due to the pandemic, services will be scheduled later.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Sitka Sound Science Center, Fortress of the Bear, or a favorite charity.

Carol “Sue” Falkner

Carol “Sue” Falkner, a beloved wife, mother, aunt, grandmother “Oma” and great-grandmother, went home to Jesus surrounded by family on Dec. 19, 2020. She would have been 81 on Dec. 24.

She was born in Ventura, Calif., the daughter of John and Ethel McArdle, and grew up in California. She received an undergraduate degree in nutrition  from Humboldt State, and in history from California State University Los Angeles, then earned a master’s from Chico State.

 She taught school for several years in California. She married Ted Falkner on Aug. 20, 1960, in Arcata, California. He was with the U.S. Forest Service, and they lived in areas of California before coming to Alaska in 1981, living in Juneau, where Sue worked for Behrends Bank, then moving to Sitka where she worked first for First National Bank of Anchorage. She later was with Body World Gym, and for the past nearly 30 years has been at Abby’s Reflection Apparel and Quiltworks.

She was a member of Ocean Wave Quilt Guild, and Rainy Day Dollmakers.

First and foremost, Sue loved the Lord with all her heart. She liked to quilt, read and be outdoors, and enjoyed long walks with beloved friends and being in the company of family.  She treasured her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Sue loved life and brought joy to all who encountered her.

She belonged to the Sitka Christian Center.

Sue will be forever cherished and remembered by her husband Ted, of Sitka; children Marci (Jay) Williams of Seattle, Patty (Rod) Ady of Sitka, and Todd; four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; and sister Kathy Warner of Georgia.

Sue also will be missed by her nieces, nephews, other relatives, and many friends.

A celebration of her life will be held when the pandemic allows. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.

Robin H. Truman

Robin H. Truman, a former Sitkan, passed away peacefully at OHSU hospital in Portland, Oregon, early on Dec. 26. He was 79.

He was born May 2, 1941, in Astoria, Oregon, one of three children of Monica and
Reuben Truman. He grew up in Astoria, and became a heavy equipment operator.

While he was working on construction of the O’Connell Bridge in 1971-72, he fell in love with Sitka and decided to make it his home.

He worked for S&S Construction Co. here, and was a member of Operating Engineers Local 302.

He was a member of the Moose Lodge, as well as the American Legion and Elks Lodge.

Robin left Sitka in 2014, and was living in The Dalles, Oregon, at the time of his death.

He was preceded in death by his wife Linda (Shivers) Truman. He is survived by his children, Robert Truman and wife Karimae Carlson of Sitka, Alaska, and Jennifer Truman and husband Hector Hertado of Colima, Mexico; grandchildren Ryker Lee Truman, Kailanna Sue Truman and  Coralynn Remington Carlson, all of Sitka; and several nieces and nephews.

Funeral arrangements are being handled by AfterCare Family Memorial Mortuary in Portland, Oregon. A memorial is planned in May.

Shirley Mae (Halleen) Miller

Shirley Mae (Halleen) Miller, of Lewiston, Idaho, died peacefully on December 15, after a short hospitalization, with her family at her bedside. 

Shirley was born in the Lewiston Orchards at the family home on October 31, 1937, to Millard and Goldie Halleen, the youngest of five children. She loved that her birthday was on Halloween. Her father died when she was seven, and her mother later married Jim DeVault, who treated her as his own daughter.

Shirley graduated from Lewiston High School in 1955. In 1957 she married John Eimers at First Methodist Church. They lived in Caldwell, Idaho, while John attended college. After graduating, John was hired as a teacher and football coach for Parma High School.

In 1962 their daughter Marcia was born.

In 1964, Shirley and John visited Sitka where Shirley’s parents and brothers, who were working at Alaska Lumber & Pulp, were living. They fell in love with Alaska and joined the rest of the family in 1965. Their son Don John was born the following year.

Shirley and John later divorced. Shirley married a member of the Coast Guard who was stationed on the C.G. Cutter in Sitka. He was transferred to Valdez, Kennewick, Washington, and then to Honolulu, Hawaii. After leaving the Coast Guard the couple returned to Sitka. 

Following their divorce, Shirley wanted to move back to Hawaii. But before she could do that, she met a fellow Idahoan George Miller, whom she married in 1987. Shirley and George enjoyed socializing on the weekends, dancing, and playing darts. Later they became snowbird, living in Casa Grande, Arizona, with several friends from Sitka, and made many more special friends there. In 1999 they left Alaska for good, and summered in Lewiston. Her daughter and son-in-law, Bill Arnold, also left Alaska for Lewiston, and her son followed the next year. A few years later Shirley and George gave up the warm winters and lived year-round in Lewiston. She was not a fan of the cold and missed Arizona. 

Shirley was cremated and her daughter and son-in-law will take her cremains to Hawaii, to be forever warm.

Shirley was one of a kind. She had a subtle sense of humor and always spoke her mind, and all who knew her have fond memories and will miss her greatly, her family said..

Shirley is survived by her husband George Miller, Lewiston; her children Marcia Eimers Arnold (spouse Bill Arnold) and Don John Eimers, Lewiston; her sister Charlotte Halleen Worden, Lewiston; her brother Lowell Halleen (spouse Beverly Halleen), Vancouver Washington; and many nephews and nieces.  She is also survived by her two fur grandbabies, Biorka and Lucy.

Her parents Millard and Goldie Halleen, her stepfather Jim DeVault, her brother Don Halleen, and her sister Darlene Halleen preceded Shirley in death.

Doreen Mary Thurlow Kowalczewski

Doreen Mary Thurlow was born on May 5, 1926, in London, England. Her father, George Thurlow, was an engineer and her mother managed a commercial laundry.

Her mother had eight brothers and sisters so there were many cousins to play with. In fact, Doreen later said she never had to learn to make friends because she was always surrounded by family.

Doreen was 13 when World War II started. Most children her age were sent to the country for safety but Doreen chose to stay in London. She told stories about the bomb shelters and other realities of war time life, including taking food and blankets to the soldiers evacuated from Dunkirk who spent days in train cars parked on the railroad tracks near Doreen’s house.

Doreen’s education ended at 16. She had planned to go on to college but the war made that impossible. So she went to work for the BBC as a secretary. Because her typing was fast and accurate she was assigned to transcribe Winston Churchill’s speeches as he gave them; she was always proud of that.

At 18 she met a Polish Air Force officer named Witold Kowalczewski and they married shortly after the war ended. Over the next five years they had three children: Christina, Janet and Stephen. Witold decided that they should emigrate to Canada where he could get a better job. He traveled to Toronto to look for work and Doreen followed him a few months later with two toddlers and a newborn baby.

In 1956 the family moved to Inkster, a suburb of Detroit. Shortly after this Doreen and Witold divorced and the children remained with Doreen. She had been working as a secretary even before the divorce and continued now to work full time as an office manager for an insurance company.

Over the next three decades her work took her to New Jersey, New York, Michigan and finally Chicago, where she was involved in software development, first for the company she worked for, then with her own business.

In 1993, at the age of 67, she moved to Sitka, to help her son with his family. He was divorced and had two young children – Shannon and Joshua – to care for. A few years later they moved to Seattle where Doreen continued to live with them and care for the children while Steve worked.

In 2012 Doreen moved back to Sitka. Her daughter Chris and her husband had decided to retire there and they invited Doreen and Steve to join them. Doreen became active in the local Ocean Wave Quilt Guild and chaired the scholarship committee. She also participated in programs for the homeless and tutored young readers at the library. She enjoyed attending concerts, dance performances, and other cultural opportunities in Sitka. At the age of 93 she volunteered to work at the Pioneers Home gift shop, where she was older than many of the residents.

Doreen enjoyed her final years, living with her family and with her cats, needlework, and books.

She stayed in touch with her grandchildren and her brother in England. She also stayed in touch with the world, closely following the news right to the end.

Doreen was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer in the summer of 2020. Treatment options were limited by her age. Home healthcare services made it possible for her to remain comfortably at home and to be with her family at the end. She died peacefully on December 9, 2020.

Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Chris Kowalczewski and Bruce Gazaway, and her son, Stephen Kowalczewski, all of Sitka; and grandchildren Shannon Kowalczewski and Joshua Kowalczewski, and great-grandson Samuel McKeeman, all of Seattle; and brother Peter Thurlow of London.

Georgia Carol Skannes

With great sadness, the family has announced Georgia Carol Skannes passed away peacefully Sunday evening, January 3, 2021, at Evergreen Hospital in Kirkland, Washington. She was 70 years old.

Georgia was born May 20, 1950, at Sheldon Jackson to George Skannes and Rose Elliott. In her early life, Georgia attended beauty college in Seattle and began her career in Sitka as a hairdresser.

Later, and throughout her life, she endured a commitment to public service. She had professional pride and served her community with honor. She was devoted to protecting the people’s rights and livelihoods. She was a strong voice for the Alaska Natives as she herself was Tlingit.

She held many elected titles, most notably Ketchikan City Council member and vice mayor and deputy mayor; and City and Borough of Sitka Assembly member. Other organizations she was elected to or was involved in included Big Brothers Big Sisters of Ketchikan, Alaska State Museum in Juneau, City and Borough of Sitka Police and Fire Commission, Girl Scouts of Santa Barbara, City of Santa Barbara Circulation and Transportation Committee, City and Borough of Juneau Planning Commission, Ketchikan General Hospital Advisory Board, Junior Achievement Adviser, Ketchikan Community Resource Council (chairperson), Ketchikan Visitors Bureau, and Alaska Municipal League Legislative Committee.

She also was recognized for outstanding achievement: Employee of the Year, Ketchikan Indian Corporation; and Business and Professional Woman of the Year. She also was selected for inclusion in “Who’s Who in America” for 1983-1985.

 Georgia’s passion was art. She was an expressive oil-based painter, and loved nature photography.

She lived most of her life in Alaska, including Sitka, Ketchikan, and Juneau. Later, she moved to Santa Barbara, California, and then to Washington State. 

Georgia lived a life of integrity and was a social person. Her life was about spending time with family and friends laughing and hugging.

 She is survived by her brothers and their families: Steve and Patti Skannes, their children Jason and Lisa; and John and Joan Skannes and their children Alicia, Camille, and Kevin.

Georgia also is survived by her children and their families: Richard Scott and Roberta Dapcevich, and his children Pearl and Cece; Steven James and his children, Brittni, Alexandria, and Alexander; and Nicole Joy and Jose Tibbitts and their child Rufina.

With certainty, Georgia would want to be remembered for how proud she was to be a grandma.

A gathering will be held to commemorate Georgia at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 20, at Bayview Cemetery in Ketchikan, Alaska.

Those who want to reach out to the family can email: richdapcevich@hotmail.com.

Howard “Sonny” Gilbert Ulrich Jr.

Howard “Sonny” Gilbert Ulrich Jr. was born in Pelican, May 6, 1950.

From a young age he worked on the ocean with his father where he learned a love and respect for nature and the sea. On July 9, 1958, Sonny and his father survived the world’s tallest tsunami on record in Lituya Bay, Alaska. At the time of his death, he was the last survivor of the infamous event.

In 1967, the family moved from Pelican to Sitka to be near family and explore new opportunities. Sonny enlisted in the United States Navy in 1970, and served in the Vietnam War on the U.S.S. Saratoga. After his service, he returned to Sitka where he eventually started a family and made his home.  

Sonny was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed collecting rocks, reading, cooking, camping, whittling, and foraging. He honored his Tlingit heritage by hunting and harvesting traditional foods, knowledge that he passed on to his two daughters. The outdoor experiences he provided for his family have had a profound and lasting impact on his children – for which they are incredibly grateful for.

He was a kind, sweet and caring soul who had a talent for gift-giving and storytelling. On warm days he could be found on local beaches enjoying the sunset, music, and a fire. 

Sonny passed unexpectedly on January 4, 2021, at the Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage at the age of 70. He was a faithful friend with lifelong relationships, a helpful and loving sibling, and devoted son who assisted in caring for his elderly parents. He was a beloved father, who cherished his children. He will be sincerely missed, his family said. 

He is preceded in death by his two brothers, Robert Ulrich and Kurt Ulrich; his mother Agnes Ulrich; and father Howard Gilbert Ulrich Sr.

He is survived by his brother Bruce Ulrich, sister Edrie Ulrich, daughters Jennifer Ulrich and Rachel Ulrich, and many cousins. A celebration of his life will be held in Sitka at a later date, to be announced.

David Lynn Berge, a man who loved family, friends and fishing, died Jan. 4, 2021, in Sitka. He was 64.

He was born May 5, 1956, in Canyonville, Oregon, and graduated from Coquille High School.

He had lived in Sitka for the last 16 years.

David was in construction, and in Sitka he had worked for Shaffer Construction, Keith Custom Construction and Dunnavant Construction.

Among his enjoyments were movies, videogames, fishing and spending time with family and friends. He also liked to shop for bargains and then give to those in need.

He married Frances Carol Davis in Sitka on April 26, 2014.

David was preceded in death by his beloved father, John L. Berge of Bandon, Oregon.

Survivors include his wife, Frances Carol Berge of Sitka; his mother, Frances Ann (Shelby) Berge of Bandon; sisters Susan Berge of Bandon, Joan Berge of Sitka and Nancy Berge of Springfield, Oregon; brother Bill Berge of Anchorage; nieces Carly Horner of Coquille, Joy Ann Rivera of Lake Forest, California, Jennifer Dunnavant of Sitka and Iris Shimizu of Eugene, Oregon; nephews Shawn Berge of Brandon, JJ Dunnavant of Caldwell, Idaho, and Austin Berge of Eugene; and honorary nephew Tim Baxter of Jefferson, Oregon.

Also surviving are six great-nephews, six great-nieces; and stepson Shea Wamsley of Seattle.

Because of COVID-19 safety guidelines, no formal memorial service will be held. “Please join us in a moment of silence to remember Dave and how he touched our lives,” his family wrote.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorial donations to the Sitka Fire Department EMS or the Sitka Police Department emergency services.