Helga Amalia Garrison

Catholic funeral services for Helga Amalia Garrison, a Sitka resident since 1978, will be held at noon on Friday, April 28, at St. Gregory’s Catholic Church.

Interment and a potluck reception (desserts will be provided) will be held at the church after. 

 Helga died March 26, 2017, in Monroe, Wash., with her family at her side. She was 43.

Helga was born Dec. 2, 1943, the youngest of six children of Franz Ferdinand Leischner and Amalia Kapaun-Leischner, in the former state of Hessin, Nazi-occupied Germany. When she was a small child her family became refugees in their own country, losing everything they owned to the Nazi and Russian forces as they moved through Europe.

When she was 16, she met the love of her life and husband of 50 years, Joe Raymond Garrison, while he was stationed in Germany. Helga immigrated to the United States at 17 and they married on Jan. 13, 1967, in Salem, Ore.

They moved to Alaska in 1967 following the logging industry and lived in several logging camps throughout Southeast including Rowan Bay and St. John the Baptist Bay. In 1978, they moved to Sitka making it their home, and in 1984 Helga started the second  B&B in Sitka, Helga’s Bed & Breakfast, which she continued operating until the time of her death. 

 Helga was well known for her quick wit, sense of humor and love of gardening. Anyone who knew her knew that her true passion was with the Catholic Church and her love for Jesus, and, just as important, the love and pride she had for her daughters and grandchildren – all of whom she adored. 

 Picnics were a regular part of every summer and Helga often joked about the whole town hearing their row boat adventures, including giggling, arguing and screaming as the “Garrison Girls” made their way from their house across the channel to Middle Island. 

As a longtime member of the community who took action and initiative with whatever concerned the city, Helga made many friends on the small island she called home and her kind heart and go get ’em attitude will be dearly missed. 

 Helga was preceded in death by her husband Joe in 2011; brother Franz, who died from complications of lockjaw before her birth; and sisters Aloisia and Leisel, with whom she grew up.

She is survived by her remaining siblings, Hilda and Kurt, and numerous nieces and nephews in Germany, whom she loved dearly. She is also survived by her daughter Beth Compton with grandchildren Ray (fiancé Beka Adams) and Victoria of Sitka, and daughter Tracy (husband Jay) Beavers with grandchildren Joshua, Benjamin, Riley, Maria, Matthew, Amalia and Alyssa of Duvall, Wash.

 “Everyone is welcome to attend and in honor of Helga’s sunny spirit and love for this time of year, please wear bright colors!” her family said.

Robert Stephen McGraw

Lifelong Sitka resident Robert Stephen McGraw passed away peacefully on April 23, surrounded by his family and love.

He had been diagnosed earlier this year with cancer, and was in the Alaska  Native Medical Center in Anchorage at the time of his death. He was 72.

He was born Oct. 20, 1944, in Everett, Wash., the son of Marie Cecelia (Trierschield) and Dormand Clare McGraw Sr. The family moved to Sitka soon after his birth. He attended Sitka schools, graduating from Sitka High in 1963. He and classmate Toni Helland were married Dec. 19, 1964.

Rob lived an active, full life. He commercial fished with his great-uncle, Charlie Peterson, and his uncle Chuck Trierschield. He also was a heavy equipment operator, a firefighter, a commercial truck driver, and an Alaska Public Safety Academy employee.

Along with fishing, Rob enjoyed boating and spending quality time with his family. Soft-spoken, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son and friend. “He will be dearly missed,” his family said.

Rob was preceded in death by his father, Dormand Clare McGraw Sr. and a brother, Michael McGraw.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Toni; son Nicholas McGraw (fiance Jen and son Logan); daughter Jenna McGraw; and grandsons Stephen McGraw and Shaun McGraw, all of Sitka.

His mother, Marie McGraw, of Lebnon, Ore.; brothers Dormand McGraw and wife Kathy, Chuck McGraw and wife Nancy and Jon McGraw and wife Cindy, all of Sitka; and a sister, Michele Burd, and her husband Tim of Lebanon, Ore., also survive.

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, memorial donations be made to Sitka Volunteer Fire Department.

Norma Lenore Malpus

Longtime Sitka resident Norma Lenore Malpus passed away quietly in Palmer on Dec. 26, 2016, surrounded by family. She was 96.

Norma was born Oct. 12, 1920, in Orting, Wash., the youngest of three daughters of Lorenzo D. Borden and Lottie Beesler.

When Norma was a young girl her mother passed away, and the sisters were placed in the care of their great aunt. Once in high school, in Sumner, Wash., Norma began to live independently, doing chores and odd jobs after school to pay for her room and board. Later, she would often say she lived from “pillar to post” as a young person.

She loved to sing, dance, and act, and was voted the “Next Ginger Rogers” in her high school yearbook. After graduating from Sumner High in 1938 she worked in Seattle as a uniformed elevator operator, a secretary, and a bookkeeper. She worked at the CB Van Vorst Mattress Company for almost 16 years, starting out as seamstress and working her way up to floor manager.

From 1942 to 1961, Norma was married to Loyal Giefer. They had two sons, Daniel Joseph, born 1946, and Jeffry Lynn, born 1955. 

On March 9, 1962, she married retired Naval LCDR Kenneth Cole Malpus. Ken and Norma became a blended family, Norma with her two sons Dan and Jeff, and Ken with his daughter Charlotte. The new family made their home in Bellevue, Wash.

In June 1964, the family moved to Sitka, where Ken was hired by Samson Tug & Barge as a tugboat skipper. Their son Kenneth Lee Malpus was born a couple of months later, in August.

Throughout her life, Norma was known for her spunk, determination, and her sense of humor. She loved to cook for her family and there are many fond memories of her cooking up amazing Chinese food, wild game, and a batches of smelt, clams, or any variety of seafood that made its way into her home.

As Ken spent a good deal of time out on the tugboats, raising their family fell to Norma. During that time, she also worked full-time at several places around Sitka, including as a florist at  Random House and as a waitress and cook at Revard’s restaurant. 

One of her favorite activities was being involved with the Emblem Club. She loved the opportunities to get dressed up for formals like the Purple Bubble Ball, the Hat Parade, and many other events. She was a regular at the taco booth during the 4th of July celebration, and even took a turn or two in the dunk tank. She spent many hours volunteering and cooking for events, and served as the president of the Emblem Club from 1969 to 1970. 

When she was in her 80s she volunteered at the Senior Center helping elders (some of them younger than she was!), waiting tables, cooking, and driving the Meals on Wheels van when necessary. When people marveled that she was working at such an age she would reply that she “wasn’t old.”

Norma moved away from Sitka when age finally caught up with her in her 90s. She moved to Anchorage to live with Charlotte and her family for several years before moving to the Palmer Veterans and Pioneer Home. Her strong will and independent nature made her a hit with the residents and staff, and though she was slowing down physically she never lost her strong mind and tenacious will.

Norma was proceeded in death by her husband, LCDR Kenneth C. Malpus; sisters Vivian Emery and Cledia Warnecke; and nephew Clinton Buckmaster.

She leaves behind her children Daniel (Katie) Giefer of Renton, Wash., Jeff (Patti) Giefer of Springdale, Wash., Charlotte (Craig) Mitchell of Anchorage, and Ken (Jill) Malpus of Emerald Lake Hills, Calif.

Also surviving are grandchildren Nicholas Giefer, Darrin Giefer, Michelle (Andrew) Sensabaugh, and Morgan Mitchell; nephews Ted (Nancy) Buckmaster and Tim (Stacey) Buckmaster; niece Christine Rogers; nine great-grandchildren; and a great-great-grandchild.

A brief service will be held noon May 8, at Sitka National Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Elks Lodge.

Robert Allen Sheesley

Sitka High graduate and U.S. Marine Corps veteran Robert Allen Sheesley has died in Washington state at the age of 41.

He was born in Sitka June 23, 1975, the son of Brian and Diane Sheesley.

He attended Baranof Elementary, Blatchley Middle School and Sitka High School, graduating in 1994 – he often spoke fondly and admiringly of his teachers.

 After graduation he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he served with honor and pride. He served five tours overseas in the East and the Middle East, earning many honors and awards before retiring in 2012 with the rank of staff sergeant.

Afterward he took up residency in Washington state where he passed away peacefully.

He is survived by his mother and father, Diane P Sheesley and Brian J Sheesley, of Tacoma, Wash.; his brother Brian P Sheesley and wife Diane Sheesley; his favorite nieces Kylie and Madalyn; his grandmother Jane Hammock of Sitka; and grandmother Judith Muzio of Seminole. Fla.

Along with his many aunts, uncles, cousins, nephews and nieces and, of course, the love of his life, his dog Halo, he also is survived by his many, many friends, whom he considered his extended family.

Robert loved his fishing, hunting, sports and just any time he could spend with family and friends. He always considered Sitka his home.

“To our loving and greatly admired son, we miss you with our very being, but you will live on in the hearts and souls of everyone you touched throughout your life and we thank you for that and may the angels above who blessed us with your being, guide you safely to your eternal destiny,” his parents said. “Semper Fi soldier and son of Sitka.”

Memorial services will be held 1 p.m. June 23, at Sitka National Cemetery, with full military honors.

A reception will follow at the Elks Lodge. Anyone wishing to attend is welcome, his family said. 

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to ASPCA, a charity he was most passionate about and was very active in; or to your local animal shelter.

Francis (Frank) Brush

  Longtime Sitka resident Francis (Frank) Brush passed away May 3 at his home in Sitka. He was 80.
    He was born Aug. 17, 1936, in Galena to Grace and Harry Brush, and in his early years lived in Nulato and Holy Cross.
    Frank Brush moved to Sitka in the early 1960s and obtained his LPN certificate. He worked a short time at Mt. Edgecumbe Hospital before serving four years in the U.S. Navy.  After his discharge from the Navy, he returned to Sitka where he worked for Alaska Lumber and Pulp as a heavy duty mechanic until the mill closed in 1993.
    Frank Brush was good friends with the Phil Moreno and Frank Rogers families and was a regular part of the Rogers family’s annual vacations via ferry to visit family in Washington state, and travel to Canada and Arkansas. He was also a part of all the family holiday, birthday and other celebrations.
    Frank, better known as Brush, was like an uncle and was also godfather to some of the Rogers kids and grandkids. He delighted in taking them downtown to eat at one of the local restaurants, go to the movies or go bowling. 
    When Sitka had a bowling alley, Brush was very active in the men’s bowling league.  He loved to read and was a regular visitor to the library and book store. He instilled his passion for reading with those around him. 
    Brush was a gentle spirit and never complained about anything. As his health deteriorated the last few years and it became more challenging for him to get around, various people stepped up to help him with rides to places he needed to get to. His Sitka family expressed thanks to everyone who reached out to him. 
    Brush was preceded in death by his parents and his brother Bobby, who died at age 16.
    He is survived by his cousin Lillian Smith of Anchorage and other cousins. He also is survived by his adopted family in Sitka – Georgia Rogers, Kelcy Coulter, Frank and Nicole Rogers, Heather, Levi and Sullivan Albertson, and Deanna and Lee Bennett.
    Other close adopted relatives are Debbie Rogers, Joelle and Bill Miller, Hally, Justin, Ethan and Addie Coulter, Aubrey, Rob, Carter and Gavin Merritt, Amber, Eric & Isla Brewer, Kayla and Ben Conner, Amanda Rogers, Frank Rogers (the fifth), and Mark Lawson.
    Brush’s ashes will be buried next to his brother’s in Nulato. A celebration of his life is planned for late July in Sitka, which will be announced later in the newspaper.
    Those with questions or wishing to contact his cousin can call Deanna Rogers Bennett at 747-3551.
   
   

Ali Nicole Clayton

Ali Nicole Clayton, age 28, of Sitka, died on May 6, 2017.
    She was born Feb. 28, 1989, in Sitka to Paula and Steve Clayton.
    She was ornery, feisty and strong right from the start, arriving via C-section after 36 hours of labor. As her proud dad held her, the doctor announced she was perfect but her mom was going to need some care for a few days. Her father’s eyes grew to the size of silver dollars, thinking her new dad was going to have to take her home to care for her. Fortunately, the doctor knew better, and the pretty little bundle stayed with her mom.
    As a toddler Ali loved to spend time at her Grammy Alice and Biggie’s house. At the time they owned a big black kind of naughty Shar Pei named Jerry (Jer-Jer most often). Ali and Jer-Jer had many similar characteristics! When this dog took a drink of water the amount of slobber produced was incredible. A towel was placed near his water dish and if you heard him taking a drink you hollered, “Uh oh, Jer-Jer is taking a drink.” Ali was delighted to yell out “I’ll get him, Grammy,” and ran over to wipe his slobbery mug.
    Ali attended the Sitka School District. Vivacious from the start, she was sent to the principal’s office three times as a kindergartener, the first in an attempt to outwit the soggy recess weather. As she told her mom, “I just wanted to stay in the tent, Mama.” She left out the part about inviting a little gentleman friend.
    Ali was dynamic even as a little girl, participating in assorted activities including the Sitka Skippers, Girl Scouts and gymnastics. She was a scene narrator in the fifth grade Shakespeare production. When prompted by Mrs. Love with her next line, she confidently turned to the teacher and “shushed” her. Pretty sure there was a small conference after the performance.
    Ali was active in sports and was involved in swim club, volleyball, and softball. Her teammates loved to hear her tell stories and do her imitations of her coaches. Always tasteful, of course.
    Ali loved animals, including her family dogs. She got her first bunny, “Smudge,” at the age of 9. This affection grew, and soon she adopted three rescue bunnies from surrounding communities. Her friends loved that she’d spend $40 on bunny food (M&Ms included) and stop at McDonald’s for a Happy Meal for herself.
    Ali starting dating the love of her life, Jameszon Doggett, in high school. The two grew together and shared love, laughter and some darn good times. Jameszon became a part of the family and will always remain there.
    Ali graduated from Sitka High School in 2007. She attended Western Oregon University and graduated with a bachelor of science degree in business in 2011. She continued her higher education and earned her MBA through Washington State University in 2014 while she was employed at Harris Air.
    Ali had a number of jobs. When she was younger, she packed fish and did job site cleanup for her dad. In 2006, she began her 10-year employment with Harris Air. No challenge was too large for her – she completed ramp duties, fueled planes and cared for all the customers. She was a go-getter and let nothing stop her.
    After Harris Air, Ali took a job at the city in the finance department – she was a valued employee and was recruited by many. About the same time, her business innovation and creativity kicked in. She ran two very nice “vacation rentals,” supplying her clients with treats, autos and plenty of adventure ideas. Ali wrote, below, about herself on her vacation rental website:
    “My name is Ali Clayton and I was born and raised in Sitka, Alaska. I have over ten years in the tourism industry, which has led me to some great experiences and opportunities. I currently operate another short-term rental, The Kerr Cedar House - (715757), which was my late grandparents’ home, and enjoy the opportunity to not only meet new people, but connect with visitors so their experience is truly a one-of-a-kind. There is never a request that I won’t give my best, so don’t hesitate to reach out!
    I purchased The Hemlock House in May of 2016 and together my family and I remodeled the house to the cozy and comfortable home it is in now. My Dad is a general contractor, and has been building in Sitka for over 35 years. Without his amazing experience and talent, the house wouldn’t be the high quality product it is now. The home’s beautiful design and touches came from the help of my Mom, who although you would think is an interior designer, works at the school district. I even need to give credit to my younger brother who stepped in and helped; from pulling nails to hanging sheet rock. This project was definitely a fun experience with my family and I could not have done it without them.
    Ali Clayton purchased this house in 2016.”
    Ali was a true Sitkan; she cared for everyone, and was always there to lend a caring hand and assist wherever help was needed. Ali always cared for others, and was generous with her means and good hard work, anticipating nothing in return. Ali will be especially remembered for her no-BS life policy and she held those around her to a high standard. She wanted the best for her friends and believed in them always.
     She also loved to do “Sitka things” outside: boating, camping, hiking, and socializing with friends. “Al Gal” will always be remembered for her zest for life and little wrinkly-nosed smile.
    Immediate family survivors include her parents, Steve and Paula Clayton, and her younger brother, Luke Clayton.
    Ali loved her family hugely. Of the Clayton family, she is survived by her grandfather, Robert Clayton; aunt and uncle, Linda and Gary Dick; their daughters and son-in-law, Kristina and Jared Jakeman; and Lindsey Carson and her children, Madelyne, Garrison and Benjamin.
    Of the Kerr family, she is survived by Ron and Roxanne Bagwell; their daughters, Katherine and Kinsey Bagwell; Curtis and Cory Fulton, and their daughter, Eleanor Fulton.
    Ali was preceded in death, and adored by, her grandparents, Alice and Carl Kerr and Marlene Clayton.
    Services to celebrate the life and vitality of this beautiful young woman will be held at a date yet to be determined.
    “Thanks to the entire community of Sitka for the unbelievable outpouring of love, concern, companionship, and comfort during this extremely difficult time,” her family said. “Your love, help and support are immeasurable. Ali would want it that way!”
   
   

Karen Iwamoto

Karen Iwamoto, a Sitkan, died May 23 at her home, attended by her husband Ed Iwamoto and daughters Carrie Sumie and Erin Minh, and much love. She was 60.
A memorial service will be held 4 p.m. Saturday, May 27, at St. Peter’s by-the-Sea with a potluck to follow at the See House.
“Please join us to remember our Karen,” her friends and family said.
Karen Susan Swanson was born Oct. 4, 1956, in Salem, Ore., to Lloyd and Sheila Swanson.
A girl with three brothers, Karen grew up tough. She also learned to play a mean game of baseball with those brothers and consequently baseball became her lifelong favorite sport—she was a diehard Mariners fan.
Karen graduated from Oregon State University in 1979 with a degree in history and anthropology. Always up for an adventure, she jumped at the chance to come to Alaska when she was offered a position in Sitka with the U.S. Forest Service. She met her future husband, Forest Service co-worker Ed Iwamoto in 1984. They were married in the forest of the Camp Adams Church Camp in Molalla, Ore., in 1988.
Their love of all things Sitka kept them fishing, camping and boating for many years – their last family trip being a crabbing trip in 2015 to Ushk Bay.
In 1992 Carrie Sumie joined the family increasing the love tenfold, and in 1997 Erin Minh was born and the family was truly complete.
“To say Karen was kind, humble, generous and compassionate would not begin to describe the love and honor that was the Karen we all knew and loved.” friends said. “She gave generously of her time always – you would see her behind the concession stands at the baseball/softball games regularly.”
Softball, Little League, St. Peter’s by-the-Sea, Girl Scouts  – for every fundraiser Karen was there to help organize, plan, work a shift and always give unselfishly of her time.
“She led by example and was an inspiration to everyone she met although she would never take credit for that!” friends said. 
Karen was proceeded in death by her father Lloyd Swanson, stepfather Don Risner, stepmother Laurie Swanson and in parents-in-law Tom and Sue Iwamoto.
She is survived by her mother Sheila Risner of Salem, Ore.; children Carrie Sumie Iwamoto of Honolulu, Hawaii., and Erin Minh, a sophomore at Bentley University in Bostom, Mass; her brothers and sisters-in-law Tim Swanson,  Dennis Swanson (Nancy), and Keith Swanson (Lindy); and in-laws Naomi Iwamoto and Randy Foret, Nancy and Rick Iwamoto and Tim and Melody Roth.
Karen also was blessed with numerous nieces and nephews, and beloved extended family of Auntie Joyce and Auntie Marge (nursing school buddies of Grandma Sheila).

Jon Jay Hanson
July 19, 1959-May 7, 2017

In the presence of loving family, Jon Jay Hanson passed away peacefully on May 7, 2017, at UW Medical  Center in Seattle, Washington. He was 57.
He was born July 19, 1959, in Marinette, Wis., the son of Kent and Marilyn Hanson.
The family moved to Sitka, and he graduated from Sitka High in 1977.
Jon was a phenomenal musician who astounded many with his talent playing the trumpet. He will be most remembered for his enthusiasm to live life to its fullest, his strength through even the most daunting times, his spontaneity, the ability to humor all, and his genuine, humble love for his family and friends.
Jon is survived by his parents Marilyn and Kent Hanson, Sitka; children Cara (Hanson) Brenton and Camille (Hanson) Miller; grandchildren Kyler Brenton and Chalice Brenton, both of Sitka; siblings Steve Hanson, Kim Hanson, Brian Hanson, Jim Hanson, Jennifer (Hanson) Mayville and Julie (Hanson) Skyum; and numerous nieces and nephews.
The bountiful life he lived was full of adventure. He awed all in his company with his moving and inspiring trumpet playing, and played in numerous bands of various genres.
He was an astonishing artist as well, always constructing some type of artistic gadget or device. He was exceptional, overly organized, equipped with everything, and a camping guru who loved the outdoors.
Jon was the “go to guy” for just about anything. He was dedicated to and treasured his entire family. He spent his life making others feel good, never missing the opportunity to share his gratitude, and making life worth living, his family said.
“Jon, you are eternally loved by all who had the pleasure to be in your presence and you will never be forgotten,” said his family.
“You are an everlasting inspiration and a part of you remains in us all. RIP,” wrote Cara (Hanson) Brenton.
A celebration of his life will be held at Sea Mountain Golf Course in Sitka, 2-5 p.m. (perhaps later) on June 17. Appetizers are welcome and those who play an instrument are invited to join the jam.
Cara may be contacted at 907-738-9939 if more information is needed.
A private ceremony will be held for family members on Saturday, July 29, 2017.


 

 


 

Ann Marie Mirow Thompson

Ann Marie Mirow Thompson, 82, died peacefully on Thursday, May 25, 2017, at home in Napavine, Wash., with her loved ones at her side, following a long battle with Alzheimer’s.

She was born June 21, 1934, to Hans and Madeleine Mirow in Nome, where her father owned and operated Mirow Air Service.

Following the sale of the family business to Alaska Airlines, Ann moved with her family to Napa Valley, Calif. In 1950 the family moved to Rockaway Beach, Ore., where Ann met the love of her life, V.C. “Bill” Thompson. They were married in 1952 and in 1955, they and their then three children moved to Edna Bay. In 1959 they moved to another logging camp in Rodman Bay.

By 1960 they were living in Sitka where, with Bill’s father, they owned and operated a crab cannery.  In 1962 Ann and Bill were partnered in what became Thompson Timber and Construction Co., with Ann serving as bookkeeper.  They moved the company to Centralia, Wash., in 1971 and operated it until 1993.

Ann always enjoyed gardening and was artistic throughout her life.  She opened Mostly Quilts in Chehalis, Wash., in 1989 and became an extremely good quiltmaker.

She also dearly loved the ocean and in retirement she and Bill enjoyed their homes at Rockaway Beach, Hood Canal and Napavine.

Ann was a wonderful wife of 65 years, an excellent business partner and a best friend to her devoted husband.  She will be remembered not only as a wonderful mother to her children, but for her compassion and caring and the many lives she touched. 

Ann is survived by her husband Bill Thompson at home in Napavine; son Michael Thompson of Anchorage; daughters Jane (Ed) Barragar of Walla Walla, Wash., Cindi Thompson of Napavine, and Linda (Rick) Vollertsen of Anchorage; 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren, and many friends.

A celebration of Ann Thompson’s life was scheduled May 31 at Sticklin Funeral Chapel in Centralia, with refreshments following.

To the sorrow of her many friends and family, Frances Miriam (Anifant) Kinberg passed away peacefully at Gig Harbor, Wash. She was 81.

Frances was born on Sept. 25, 1935, in Portland, Maine, to Karmaline M. McGrath and Charles A. Anifant, who had immigrated to America from Greece as a young boy.

Frances Kinberg

She graduated from Cathedral High School in Portland in 1953, and Mercy Hospital’s School of Nursing in 1956. Upon her graduation from nursing school – being an adventurous, inquisitive soul –  Frances moved  to Sitka on her own and began a career as a registered nurse with the Public Health Service.

In an article dated Sept. 17, 1957, the Portland Evening Express noted, beneath her photo, “In just two days, this young lady will be flying to Alaska … in a trip that will take 21 hours with four changes!” The article went on to say, “Miss Anifant expects to stay in this faraway place two years; but she has the privilege of returning if she doesn’t like the country or the work.” 

As it turned out, Frances stayed in Sitka for 30 years, working as an R.N. at the Mt. Edgecumbe Education and Medical Center (later SEARHC Mt. Edgecumbe Hospital), where she met her first husband, Nathaniel Mandel, and started a family. While with Mt. Edgecumbe Hospital she helped form many health programs for Alaska Natives.

She left Sitka in 1980 to earn her B.S. in nursing from the University of Alaska Anchorage, returned to Sitka and SEARHC in 1982 as a Patient Educator, and became the first certified diabetes educator in Alaska.

In 2015, Frances was awarded the prestigious Sister Consuela White Spirit of Nursing Award for Lifetime Achievement from the American Nursing Association (Maine chapter).

Frances married Marvin C. Kinberg Jr. of Sitka in 1978, and the two remained married until his death in 1992. She was also preceded in death by her first husband, Nat Mandel, her sister Margaret Maguire and brother-in-law Jack Maguire, and by her grandson Seth Thurman Mandel.

She is survived by sister Joan Carol Anifant of Scarborough, Maine; brother David C. Anifant and his wife Barbara A. Anifant of Hyde Park, N.Y.; brother Michael J. Anifant and his wife Cathy J. Anifant of Bedford, N.H.; and four children, Rachel Kathryn Trappen and her husband Richard W. Trappen of Gig Harbor, Wash., Margo Mandel of Anchorage, Peter D. Mandel and his wife Nicole Mandel of Anchorage, and Gregory Mandel of Sitka.

She is also survived by grandchildren Kimberley Frances Robertson and her husband Bill A. Robertson, Dylan Scott Mandel and his fiancée Amy Phillips Miller, Molly Grace Mandel, Hailey Hafner, Jacob Hafner, Nicholas Hafner and his wife Haylee Hafner, and Stephan David Lewis; and great-grandchildren August William Robertson, Bay Frances Robertson, and Kinsley Lewis. She will be buried in Anchorage beside her beloved grandson, Seth.

 “Frances was a unique woman, with an infectious laugh and a style, curiosity, and tenderness all her own,” said her niece, Adrienne Anifant Schaentzler.

Her greatest joy in life was her family. She was a beautiful and loving mother, who was always there for her children. Her other loves were animals (especially her beloved Scottie dog Annie Laurie), books, traveling, and the Boston Red Sox. She will be eternally missed by all who knew her.

A Holy Mass will be held 10 a.m.  Monday, June 12, at Holy Family Cathedral, 800 W. 5th Ave., in Anchorage, with a viewing at Evergreen Memorial 2-4 p.m. June 11. In lieu of flowers, Frances would choose you donate to an animal shelter of your choice.

Lloyd A. "Red" Foster

On May 17, 2017, Lloyd A. Foster, a.k.a. “Red,” left this world. At 83, he had a good long life.

He had strong opinions, but was known for having a soft heart. He was an excellent cook, avid fisherman, hunter and golfer. There was nothing he loved better than a medium rare steak and a good martini!

He will be missed by those who called him dad, grandpa, uncle and friend.

Lloyd was born in 1933 in Sandpoint, Idaho, the youngest of seven siblings. He was the devoted son of Edna Pearl (Chugg) from Quebec Canada, whom he loved dearly, and (Robert) Clayton Foster from Tyler, Texas. 

Lloyd graduated in 1951 from Lincoln High School in Seattle, Wash.  He joined the Navy in 1952 as a machinist’s mate chief petty officer and was stationed in San Diego. He received a medical discharge in 1953.

He adventured his way to Sitka,  where he worked construction, married his first wife Beatrice, and started a family. He loved living in Alaska!

He was an active member of the American Legion and helped get Gov.  Bill Egan elected back in the day when Alaska became a State.

He was on the first crews to work on the North Slope to build the Alaska Pipeline in the 1970s. He was an active member of the I.U.O.E. (Operating Engineers) until his death.

After his days on the pipeline, he moved to the Seattle area and married his second and beloved wife Gail, who proceeded him in death. He worked as a building inspector for the City of Kirkland until his retirement.

Lloyd is survived by his only daughter Marchelle (Marcy) Foster and his two granddaughters Mikaelah and Madelyn May of Portland, Ore.; his only surviving sister, Eunice Knaggs, and favorite niece Susan Gazdik of Sandpoint.

Also surviving are numerous other nieces and nephews around the Northwest.

 A memorial service will be held 1-3 p.m. June 25 at the Green Acres Community Center, 23825 15th Ave SE, Bothell, WA 98021.

Robert Harry Rumery Jr.

Services for Robert Harry Rumery Jr. will be held 2-5 p.m. Sunday, June 25, at the Sitka Elks Lodge.

Bob died May 28 in Sitka. He was 66.

He was born Jan. 4, 1951, in Belleville, Ill., the  son  of  Mary  Bradley and Robert H. Rumery Sr. Most of the family is from Cresson, Pa., but Bob’s father was in the U.S. Army and the family lived in Illinois, California, Japan and Juneau.

Bob himself was in the Army, and served as a helicopter mechanic during the Vietnam war.

He came to Sitka in 1978, and was owner of the local NAPA auto parts store.

His children meant everything to him, and he loved camping with them,  going fishing, shrimping and crabbing.

He also liked to travel, and visited Mexico almost every year.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Mary.

He is survived by his daughter, Kathryn Rumery of Sitka; son Matthew Rumery of Juneau; sisters Barbara Dickerson of Forest, Va., Donna Harris of El Mirage, Ariz., and Janet Atkinson of Midlothian, Va.; and brothers Michael Rumery of Juneau, Rodger Rumery of Juneau and Richard Rumery of Loretto, Pa.

Donna A. Grota

Wasilla resident Donna A. Grota, 58, passed away after a decade-long battle with dementia on June 2, 2017, at Providence Hospital in Anchorage.

Donna was born Nov. 21, 1958, in New Bedford, Mass., the daughter of Nancy (Porter) and Daniel Grota Sr.

She lived life to the fullest each and every day until she passed.  She was an accomplished master gardener and talented photographer, who lived the Alaskan dream, hunting, trapping and fishing, living for a time on a floathouse.

Donna loved nature, and her knowledge of gardening earned her an award from the U.S. National Parks Dept. for planting and maintaining the Russian Bishop’s House Garden in Sitka, in 2001. 

She came to Alaska in 1983, and during her years here, until moving to Wasilla in 2001, she worked at Ben Franklin and Spenard Building Supply.

She was also a ship’s cook out of Petersburg for a spell.  At one time she even worked as a medical records tech in Wasilla.

Donna was preceded in death by her father, Daniel D. Grota and her loving husband, Frank Brown.  She joins them both in eternity.

She is survived by her mother, Nancy P. Grota, of Wasilla; sister Debbi A. Smith, of Livermore, Calif.; and a brother, Daniel D. Grota, Wasilla.

A celebration of life gathering in her memory will be held noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 24, in the main dining room of the Mat-Su Senior Services Center, 1132 S. Church Street in Palmer.

Ricky Jay Broschat

Ricky Jay Broschat passed into the arms of the Lord on June 11, 2017.

The Sitka High graduate was killed in an accident while motorcycling with friends in Arizona, the day before his 61st birthday.

A memorial service was held June 19 in Tucson, Ariz., at Desert Skies, United Methodist Church. The service included his brother Perry reading a letter from good friend Paul Haavig  and elegies by another brother, Brad, and Rick’s son Cary.

Rick was born June 12, 1956, in Valley City, N.D., to James and Doris (Helm) Broschat. When he was 8 the family moved to Sitka. He attended  the University of Oregon in Eugene, where he graduated with a  bachelor of science degree in biology.

Rick was married, in 1980, to Nancy Perta in Lake Oswego, Ore., and they had three beautiful children,  Alex, Cary and Amie Broschat. 

Rick lived in Utah, Arizona and Alaska then finally moved back to Arizona. He worked in the mining industry as a health and safety engineer for many years, and has owned a document destruction business in Tucson for the past 15 years.

Rick loved his family and friends, the outdoors, fishing, beer, antiques, working on old cars, taking care of plants, his dogs, and any animal that needed care or a home.

He enjoyed entertaining and having family and friends gathering at his home. He was an active member of Caballeros del Sol and Tucson Association of Executives.

Rick was a committed and loyal son, brother, uncle and faithful friend, and a wonderful and devoted father. He was loved by his family and friends, and a father figure to many. 

He was preceded in death by a brother, Cary, and his dad, James Broschat.

He is lovingly remembered and will be missed by the love of his life, Ande Roberts, Tucson; his children, Alex, 33, Cary, 30, and Amie, 27, all of Tucson; his mother, Doris Broschat of Mesa, Ariz.; his siblings, Perry (Melissa) Broschat of Sitka, Brad (Janine) Broschat of Yuma, Ariz., and Janae (Randy) Rodriguez of Middleville, Mich.; and nieces and nephews Andrew (Elle) and Alexandra Broschat, Jonathan, Rebecca and Elizabeth Broschat, and Kyle (Ashley), Nicole, Cody and Micah Rodriguez.

In honor of Rick’s love for animals, the family suggests donations be made in Rick’s name to Humane Society of Southern Arizona.

Destiny Desire Charles

  A memorial for Destiny Desire Charles will be held 3-6 p.m. Saturday, June 24, at Sheet’ka Kwaan Naa Kahidi.
    Donations and cards for the family can be given at the memorial.
    Destiny died June 5 while in Ketchikan. She was 40.
    She was born April 7, 1977. Family members were from Hydaburg, and she owned D.D. Kitchen there.
    She had lived in Sitka from 2012 to this year.
    Survivors include her husband, Frank Lee “Leo” Jimmy Sr. and son Frank Jimmy Jr., both of Sitka; and sons Teddy Floyd Vos III and Kevin Powell Adams, both of Alaska.

Cory Allen Mickelson

Cory Allen Mickelson was a proud resident of Sitka from his birth on Nov. 6, 1980, until moving to Washington state in 2000, where he lived until returning to Alaska in 2015.

Throughout his school years here Cory was an outstanding athlete who loved spending time in the outdoors with friends and family, catching reptiles of any kind, being on the water and camping.

He was greatly influenced by his time playing football, baseball and basketball, with his dad Mark as his coach, and the many wild adventures he had with friends. Before originally leaving Sitka he worked for Rennie’s Masonry & Concrete and Maple Leaf Construction. Both John and Jim were influential in shaping Cory’s strong work ethic while having fun working hard.

In Washington, Cory became the proud father of his daughter Natalie and son Jack.

He became an active member of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local #302 while quickly becoming a well-known and respected journeyman crane operator with Sicklesteel Cranes of Mount Vernon and Ness Cranes of Seattle.

He continued pursuing his passions for the outdoors and sports while working toward his private pilot’s license and supporting his family.

In 2015 he returned to Sitka and in June 2016 he moved to Juneau to begin working for Triplette Construction. He loved his work and it showed through the respect he earned, his dedication and his ever widening skill set. 

Cory was big in stature as well as character who inherited his quick wit from his beloved Grandpa Ed. He had the ability to lighten the mood with his unforgettable sense of humor and his untamed loyalty to his friends and family. His sister Tera aptly described him as strong and sensitive, fierce and protective.  There is no doubt that Cory had a positive impact on many people throughout Southeast Alaska, Northwest Washington and beyond.

It was a devastating tragedy when Cory’s life ended the evening of June 15 while he was felling trees in the forest near the channel in Juneau. His passing was not prolonged and his fiancé was with him in his final moments; he left this world knowing what it was to love and be loved. 

Cory is survived by his daughter, Natalie Mickelson of Ferndale/Bellingham, Wash.; son Jack Mickelson of Sitka; parents Mark and Sheri Buggins of Sitka; brother Erik Buggins of Sitka; sister Tera Allard of Ferndale, Wash.; and fiancé Halli Winstead of Juneau and Tumwater, Wash.; paternal grandmother Virginia Buggins of Oregon City, Ore.; and numerous ands, uncles and cousins in Alaska, Oregon and Washington.

Cory was preceded in death by maternal grandparents Ed and Hazel Howard, of Cypress Island, Wash., and paternal grandfather Albert Buggins of Oregon City, Ore.

A celebration of Cory’s life will  be held Wednesday, June 28, at Halibut Point Rec, in the large shelter. The potluck will begin at 4 p.m. Friends are invited to come with memories to share with Natalie, Jack, and Halli.  

In lieu of flowers the family suggests contributions to the Memorial Fund for Cory Mickelson at Wells Fargo Bank for the benefit of his children.  

Nina Bernhardt Dies;
Memorial Set June 28


In the presence of her loving family, Nina Ruth Bernhardt passed away on June 22, 2017, at the Sitka Pioneers Home. She was 84.
Memorial services will be held 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 28, at the First Presbyterian Church. A graveside service will follow, and a reception will be 2:30-4 p.m. at the Elks Lodge.

Nina Bernhardt

Nina was born July 10, 1932, to Louise (Hollywood) Elliott. She grew up in Sitka and graduated from Sitka High School, where she was a cheerleader, played on the girls basketball team, and was a song queen. After graduating she traveled to Washington state and attended Peterson’s Business School.
After returning to Sitka she met Robert Bernhardt. They were married June 25, 1955, at St. Peter’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, and have remained here ever since, raising four children.
Nina had experience in writing grants and wrote many. In 1976 she received a grant that became the first funding for the Sitka Teenage Club, a project she devoted many hours to.
In 1979 she attended training in Edina, Minn., on the Project Charlie curriculum, designed to build self-esteem in children and teach them they are important individuals. After writing and receiving a grant, she brought the curriculum into Sitka schools for 10 years.
From 1976 to 1988, she took many college courses and traveled to many conferences to learn as much as she could to further be able to help others.
Nina loved entertaining and was admired for her amazing natural soprano voice – she often was asked to sing at weddings, funerals and other events. Nina and her mother, Louise, often sang and played the piano at the Pioneers Home and the Senior Center, or wherever there was a piano.
Nina enjoyed singing and performing in local musical productions, such as “South Pacific,” “Camelot,” “Half A Sixpence” and “Oliver,” to name a few. She was also a part of the Alaska Day Festival and the Wine Women and Song program, and was a member of the singing group the Sweet Adelines. She was a member of the Episcopal Church choir and later joined the First Presbyterian Church choir. Every Christmas Eve, Nina could be heard singing the solo “O Holy Night” at the Presbyterian Church.
She received many awards and honors over the years. In 1996 she received the Elks Distinguished Citizenship Award for “Outstanding and Meritorious Service to Humanity” and in 1997 she was named Sitka Woman of the Year for her “exemplary contributions to our community.”
In her spare time, Nina loved gardening, bowling, crocheting and selling Avon.
She will be best remembered for her smile, singing voice and kind heart.
Nina was preceded in death by her mother, Louise Elliott, and her sister,  Betty Lou Gutierrez.
She is survived by her husband, Robert Bernhardt; daughter Roberta (Mike) White, son David Bernhardt, daughter Deborah (Dennis) Vilandre, and son Gary (Paige) Bernhardt.
Her grandchildren are Angela McGraw, Katrina Gardner, Tyler Wagner, Parker White; Kacie and Kendall Bernhardt; Lindsey, Kale, Blayne, Trace and Bae Vilandre; and Riley Bernhardt. Great-grandchildren are Alec and Jackson McGraw; Taylor and Kaylin Gardner.
Pallbearers will be grandsons Kale, Blayne and Trace Vilandre, and Parker White; and sons Dave and Gary Bernhardt.
Honorary pallbearers are Charles Horan, Nathan Bernhardt, Dennis Vilandre and Nick Goddard.

Mary Reynolds

Mary Reynolds, an OB nurse at Mt. Edgecumbe Hospital for many years, died suddenly on Wednesday March 29, 2017, in Hinckley, Minn. She was 66.
She was a wife, mother, sister and nurse, who lovingly welcomed many babies into the world. She was a compassionate and caring person who touched the lives of all she met.
She was born July 14, 1950, in St. Paul, Minn., the daughter of Ernest and Virginia Fishback. She started her nursing career in 1970, working first at Red Lake. Minn.,  for several years and then moving to Sitka.
Mary later became a counselor in the local Wisewoman (Well-Integrated Screening and Evaluation for WOMen Across the Nation) program, helping numerous women learn and maintain lasting heart-healthy lifestyles throughout Alaska.
In the late 2000s, Mary moved back to Minnesota and lived in Finlayson, where she worked as a station secretary at Essentia Hospital in Sandstone. She enjoyed working with the staff and patients in her new role.
Mary loved making quilts, doing beadwork and playing bingo.  She especially loved hanging out with her nieces, nephews, and their families.
She was preceded in death by her son David and her parents Ernest and Virginia Fishback.
She is survived by her husband Mike of Finlayson and loving daughter Heidi, of Seattle, as well as her sisters Margaret (Dan) Courteau and Irene Simmons.
Her kindness and gentle spirit will be missed by all who knew her.
There will be a celebration of Mary’s life 1-4 p.m. July 15 in Hinckley, Minn.
The family would appreciate memorials made to the American Heart Association in Mary’s name.

Orletta (Letty) Willemina Unterwegner

Orletta (Letty) Willemina Unterwegner, 91, passed away peacefully on the evening of June 27, 2017, at Sitka Community Hospital. She had lived in Sitka for almost 55 years, and was able to live at home independently until only a few days before her death. Many family members were by her side during her short stay at the hospital.

Letty was born to Charles Ryker and Gertrude Fountain near Reva, S.D., on Nov. 23, 1925, the youngest of five children. She was delivered at the home of a midwife, her aunt Gertrude Rice, who at that time lived on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.

Letty loved to share stories about her family’s small farm and the many challenges faced in surviving the harsh weather of the Dakotas. When she was 9, Letty’s family, including her grandparents, left South Dakota for the green grass and cool air of Chehalis, Wash.  Her family bought a small farm on Pleasant Hill, near Adna, a tiny community near Chehalis. 

A boy from a neighboring farm, Ron Unterwegner, became friends with her older brothers, who all called her Pee Wee. That boy became her husband on March 28, 1941. Like many of their generation, they married just before Ron entered the Navy, to serve during WWII. A year after he returned from the war, their first child, Sandra, was born, followed by sisters Diane, Vicki and Kris. Throughout their marriage of 61 years, which ended when Ron died in 2002, he would often call Letty by her nickname, “Wee,” a term of endearment from their childhood.

Having grown up on farms, Letty and Ron wanted to live differently. They knew farm life ties a person down, and Ron had a wandering soul. He worked for logging shows in Washington and Oregon, and then he and Letty ran their own small logging operation near Chehalis. Letty could run most of the equipment, and enjoyed the challenges of doing a “man’s work.” 

In 1956, Ron took a job in a logging camp on Dall Island, Alaska. He built a one-room cabin, and Letty and the three oldest girls lived in the cabin for the summer. While the girls loved the entire adventure of flying in an airplane, playing in the tidepools, eating blueberries, and playing paperdolls on rainy days, Letty had the work of cooking on a Yukon wood stove, with no running water, no kitchen, no electricity, and having to haul the laundry down to the camp each week. She showed her daughters how to play “catalog” paper dolls and also sewed each of the girls a clothespin pioneer doll. Letty had also brought surprise toys for the girls to enjoy throughout their stay. In fact, Letty had a true pioneer spirit, and handled the challenges beautifully. When  the family left camp at summer’s end, the girls were told a new baby was on the way, who turned out to be sister Kris.

In 1956, they moved to Seattle where Letty and Ron worked for Boeing Aircraft Company for seven years. Letty’s mom Gertrude lived with the family and helped take care of the girls.

In 1962, Ron took a job as a machinist for Alaska Lumber and Pulp Co., and the family moved to Sitka in October. Letty stayed at home a few years, then took a job in ALP’s Purchasing Department. She enjoyed her job very much, and held it for almost 20 years.

After retiring, Letty and Ron moved back to Washington, bought an RV, and made many enjoyable trips around the United States. In 1996, they returned  to Sitka where three daughters and families lived. They enjoyed boating, family picnics and being outside with their family.

Letty was an accomplished seamstress, and made most of her children’s clothing. Even while working, she made all of her daughters’ wedding dresses and the bridesmaid dresses, and also beautifully decorated their wedding cakes. She later took up quilting, and joined the local quilting society. She and daughter Vicki enjoyed working on quilting projects together. Letty also knitted and crocheted, and when her vision finally lessened, she still crocheted potholders for her many family members, until entering the hospital.

Letty was preceded in death by her husband Ronald; her father Charles and mother Gertrude Fountain; brothers Tunis and wife Vera Fountain, Charles and wife Ruth Fountain and Milton Fountain; sister Velva and husband John White; and her granddaughter, Jessica Baggen.

She is survived by a sister-in-law, Grace Fountain; and her children,  Sandra Fontaine (Curt Ledford), Diane (Ernie) Matteson, Vicki (George) Baggen, and Kris Unterwegner (Robert Pappe).

Her grandchildren are Keith (Christi) Ledford, Janine Ledford, Trevor (Tracie) Harang, Sonia Kwon Harang (Trevor Laib), Beth Fontaine, Daisy Casey, Amelia (Kevin) Morgan, Hayley Cho Matteson, Cory Baggen, Melissa (Brent) Turvey, Amanda Baggen (Jensen Yocum), Kathleen States (Andrew Pienkos), and Carson (Leah) States. 

Her great-grandchildren are Kemji and Mekam Ledford, Evan, Sandy, Neil and Nelson Ledford, Justin, Brady, and Grace Harang; Leo and Aiden Laib, Bram and Luna Duifhuizen, Gianna Casey; Avila and Cambria Morgan; Joey and Sophia Mudry, Savanna, Gavin, Teagan and Quinlyn Holder; Courtney (Kurt) Ainslie, Jamie Abbott, and Garrett Eliason; Jorin and Elsie Yocum; and Colton, Sawyer and Gwendolyn States. Great-great-grandchildren are Esme and Ryker Ainslie.

At Letty’s request, there will be no memorial service. Her family will hold a private service when her remains are interred at Sitka National Cemetery. 

Lucille Gray

Services for Lucille Gray will be held 2 p.m. Wednesday, July 5, at the First Presbyterian Church, Pastor Rob Mathis presiding.

A graveside service will follow, at 3 p.m. at Sitka National Cemetery. A dinner reception will be at 4:30 p.m. at Harrigan Centennial Hall, in the Raven Room.

Lucille died April 30 at a nursing home in Spokane, Wash. She was 89.

Lucille H. Watson was born April 14, 1928, in Goodland, Minn., the daughter of Ruth M. Darrow and William H. Watson.  

She was raised on a farm and attended school in Grand Rapids, Minn.,  until the 10th grade when she focused on working on the farm.

At age 19 she moved to Minneapolis where she earned her certification as a licensed practical nurse and worked at a tuberculosis sanitorium until her father passed away, and she returned home to help her mother.

At 26, Lucille accepted an offer from the Federal Government to pay her way to Sitka, Alaska, a small fishing town with only 1,800 residents, and work at the Mt. Edgecumbe Hospital. The hospital was established to serve Natives throughout Alaska who had been affected with tuberculosis. She earned her meals, rent, and $50 a month, which allowed her to send money home to her mother. 

After a year of working at the hospital, Lucille met Alfred Gray and a year later they were married, August 27, 1955. The following year, on June 8, 1956, she gave birth to twin boys Alfred and Alan, and a year later, on May 26, 1957, she gave birth to a set of twin girls, Charlene and Cheryl.

Following the girls’ birth Lucille returned to nursing, working at the Sitka Pioneers Home.

On May 8, 1966, she gave birth to a boy, Douglas.

She continued to work until she retired in 1987 with 22 years of service. 

Lucille was a huge supporter of her children’s and grandchildren’s activities, attending and cheering them on in wrestling, baseball, soccer, swimming and cheerleading.

She enjoyed family time, playing games, hiking, berry picking, bowling, and making jams and syrups.

She loved making desserts, baking pies from freshly picked berries and rhubarb, making cinnamon rolls and breads.

A proud grandma, she traveled to see all her grandchildren’s graduation and wedding events. She enjoyed telling jokes and singing and making people smile. 

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred Gray; her parents William H. and Ruth M. (Darrow) Watson; sister Rhoda Pavolla; brothers and sisters-in-law Clayton and Norma Watson and Charlie and Gladys Watson; sister  and brother-in-law Ruth and Albert Benson; and grandson Freddy Bruner. 

Lucille is survived by her sister Ruby Madsen of Minnesota; sons and daughters-in-law Alfred and Karen Gray of Sonora, Calif., Alan and Donna Gray of Spokane, Wash., and Douglas and Michelle Gray of Juneau; daughters and sons-in-laws Charlene and Rock Peterson, Sitka, and Cheryl and Rich Clark of Ione, Wash.

Also surviving are 15 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren; nieces Virginia Schultz, Gloria Johnson, Janet Sobtzak, Judith Watson Jahn, Suzanne Watson Steimpel, Maryls Osborn and Jane Benson; nephews Harold Madsen, Erling and wife Yvonne Madsen, Kalvin Madsen and Leroy Watson and Richard Watson; and numerous cousins.