Ramona Lee Tucker
Please join friends and family for a celebration of life for Ramona Lee Tucker at the Homer Elk’s Lodge Sunday, May 4 at 2 p.m.

James Randall Kvasnikoff

James Kvasnikoff

Lifelong Nanwalek resident, James Randall Kvasnikoff, 46, died April 10, 2014, at the Nanwalek Clinic in Nanwalek.
Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. April 17, 2014, at St. Sergius and Herman of Valaam Russian Orthodox Church in Nanwalek. Father Sergie Active officiated. James was buried in the St. Sergius and Herman of Valaam Russian Orthodox Church cemetery.
James was born March 26, 1968, in English Bay, now known as Nanwalek. He graduated from English Bay High School and Anchorage Community College.
James was a member of the Nanwalek IRA Council for many years, serving in several different seats. He was currently serving as Second Chief at the time of his death. He was a lifelong resident of Nanwalek.
James also had served on the board of directors of Chugach Alaska Corporation since 2007 and served in several different capacities with different Chugach subsidiaries. James also served on the Lands and Cultural Resources Committee. James also served many years on the board of directors of Chugachmuit Native Corporation and was currently serving as the vice-chairman on the board. He also served on the Chugachmiut Headstart Policy Council. James had served as a director of the Kenai Peninsula Project Grad Board.
“James loved going to our cabin and spending time with his family, working in the woods and fishing. James and Christopher spent many hours checking on the game camera to view what wildlife visited the area. One of James’ passions was to work on issues for his community and for the youth of Nanwalek.
James loved serving on the Nanwalek IRA Council, Chugachmiut, Chugach Alaska Corporation. He had managed the English Bay General Store in the past. James had taught bilingual at the school. Until January he had been the custodian at the Nanwalek School for the past seven years. He loved traveling, meeting new people and exploring new parts of the United States. James was loved by many and will be greatly missed, especially on Facebook, and his pictures of Gerdie and the family. James left a great impact on us all,” his family said.
James was preceded in death by his father, Vincent Kvasnikoff; his grandparents, Sargus Kvasnikoff, Arnold and Juanita Melshiemer, and Tim and Anesia Ukatish; and numerous aunts and uncles.
He is survived by his wife, Esther Carol Kvasnikoff; son, Christopher James Kvasnikoff; mother, Natalie Kvasnikoff; sister, Roberta Kvasnikoff; brother, Vincent Kvasnikoff Jr.; brother and his partner, Barton Kvasnikoff and Sherri Glahn; brother and sister-in-law, Ukatish and Vivian Kvasnikoff; brother and sister-in-law, Peter and Helen Ukatish, all of Nanwalek; nieces, Cora Moonin, Julianna Sjoblom, Nadia Ukatish, Tehya Ukatish, Natalia Ukatish and Helen Gonzales; nephews, Preston Kvasnikoff, Peter J. Ukatish and Gus Ukatish, all of Nanwalek; and godchildren, Christopher Anahonak, Angeline Jimmy, Josephine Evans, Elmer and Luke Anahonak Riley, Thomas Sjoblom, who is also his nephew, and Jermaine Romanoff-Moonin.
Arrangements made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel.

John A. Hollis

John A. Hollis

John A. Hollis, 67, a resident of Homer for the past 63 years, died Tuesday, May 6, 2014 at South Peninsula Hospital in Homer following an extended illness.
John was born Aug. 23, 1946 in Seattle, Wash. His family moved to Homer in 1950, and he graduated from Homer High School in 1964. He later attended business college in Washington State. John was a heavy equipment operator and truck driver throughout most of his life. He was also employed by the City of Homer as Harbormaster.
The family wrote, “John was a gentle soul who was loved by so many. He was always willing to lend a hand to help someone in need, expecting nothing in return. He loved Homer and never wanted to live anywhere else. John was extremely giving, sometimes even to his detriment. He will be missed.”
John was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Earl and Dorothy (Richmond) Hollis and niece, Sandra Scroggs.
He is survived by his son, Lawrence Hollis of Eagle Mountain, Utah; sister, Dorene Hollis Miller of Wagoner, Okla.; brother, William Hollis of Guam; ex-wives, Deni Charron and Charlene Wilkins, both of Homer.
Arrangements were made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel and Crematory. Please sign John’s online guestbook at www.AlaskanFuneral.com.
Memorial services will be held at a later date.

Wayne E. Jones

Alaska Pioneer and longtime Homer resident Wayne E. Jones, 89, died Thursday, May 08, 2014 in Homer, Alaska.
Wayne was born in Syracuse, N.Y. on Nov. 19, 1924 to O. Vinal and Etta (Nash) Jones. As described in his father’s diary on the day of his birth, Wayne was a “well-built little fellow.” He was born while his mother accompanied his father on a business trip, and they returned to their River Edge, N.J. home the following week.
In 1929, tragedy struck Wayne early in life when his mother, Etta, died of complications from an appendix surgery when he was only 4 years old. Wayne had a younger and older brother, and with the devastating loss of his mother — and his father grief stricken — it was decided that he and his younger brother, Byron, should live with his aunt Alta in Los Angeles, Calif. Wayne traveled via the Panama Canal to Los Angeles, and lived there for five years before returning to the east coast in 1935. He reunited with his family and lived in Pemaquid (Bristol) Maine.
Living in Maine, Wayne learned to hunt, fish and had a great interest in archery and marksmanship. In May 1943, Wayne was drafted into the army and reported for duty. As an infantryman sharpshooter in the army during WWII in the Pacific, Wayne made beach landings at Leyte Gulf, Guam and Okinawa, and is well-known for his war stories. Upon his January 1946 return from the war, Wayne read “A Call of the Wild,” by Jack London, and had his heart set on Alaska.
In May, 1946 Wayne and his older brother bought an old Ford truck and started out for Alaska.They arrived in Seattle, and then completed the journey to Anchorage by ship by the end of June, 1946. Wayne, his brother, and other WWII veterans walked the beach from Ninilchik to Homer to select a piece of land to homestead. A waterfall caught Wayne’s eye on the beach walk to Homer, just north of Happy Valley. He decided that, “if there is water, then I could survive.”
Life on the homestead was rough, but Wayne’s skills from his childhood in Maine, as well as his ability to persevere through the war, saw him through. But life was lonely on the homestead. Wayne’s older brother met a girl during the war in Germany. The girl’s sister wrote to Wayne after the war, starting a love letter writing campaign.
On Feb. 14, 1954 at the Anchorage airport, Wayne finally met Dora Mattheus after they had corresponded for six years. Wayne and Dora were married four days later. He did not know German and she did not know English, but it was love at first sight.
Wayne lived on the homestead with Dora, and they had a son one year later. Wayne then started his career as a heavy equipment mechanic with the CAA in 1955, before it became the FAA in 1958. He traveled all over Alaska for the FAA, but eventually settled into a stationary position at the Homer FAA station in 1962. His second son was born, and Wayne bought the well-known “little blue house” on the hill. A daughter soon followed in 1966, and he remained with the FAA in Homer until his retirement.
His career lasted 30 years.
Wayne enjoyed tinkering, inventing and science — which is evident with the construction of his own canon that he used to start the sailboat races at the end of the Homer Spit back in the 60s. He also hand-built the waterwheel and generator next to his house, his half-track backhoe, a modified snow blower in which he received an award, and many other projects too numerous to list.
Retired life brought time for Wayne to tinker, travel and enjoy time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren on his beloved homestead in Happy Valley. Wayne took pride in being a husband, father, grandpa, pioneer Alaskan, WWII Veteran and was always eager to bend an ear at the coffee table. He will be terribly missed by all that knew him.
Wayne was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years, Dora A. Jones, his first son Vinal “VJ” Jones, and his older brother Gordon B. Jones.
He is survived by his daughter Etta (Jones) Toci and her husband Angelo, grandchildren “AJ” and Amanda all of Anchor Point; his son Dwayne Jones and his wife Kimberly, along with grandchildren Isaac and Simon, all of Kenmore, Wash.; Granddaughter Mariah (Jones) Simpson, great-grandchildren Justice, Tyson, Tobias, and Liberty —all of North Carolina, and his younger brother Byron K. Jones of Anchorage. He is also survived by many in-laws in Germany.
A public memorial service is being planned and will be announced soon. Wayne’s ashes will be laid to rest next to his wife and oldest son in a private ceremony on his treasured homestead north of Happy Valley.
Condolences may be sent to: Jones Family PO Box 272 Homer, AK 99603

Charles Ashley

Charles Ashley

Homer resident, Mr. Charles Ashley, 61, died Friday, May 23, 2014 at his home in Homer. Private services will be held at a later date.
Mr. Ashley was born July 14, 1952. He moved to Homer in 2011, and loved hunting, fishing and photography. He was a very kind and giving person who was always willing to help. He loved his dog, who was his constant companion. He was preceded in death by his wife.
Arrangements were made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel and Crematory. 

Ben Kruse

Lifelong Alaska resident, Benjamin Edgar Kruse, 30, died Friday, June 6, 2014 due to injuries suffered in an ATV accident. 
Funeral and graveside services were held Thursday and Friday of last week. He was laid to rest at the Spruce Grove Memorial Park in Kasilof, Alaska. 
Ben Kruse was born Sept. 20, 1983 to James and Linda Kruse in Soldotna. He loved playing basketball, snowmachining, ATV riding, hiking and spending time at the beach with his family. 
The family wrote, “For Ben, life was grounded in his love of God and family, especially his two sons: Karver and Parker. Those who knew Ben knew a man whose physical stature was exceeded only by the greatness of his heart. He was a selfless provider to his wife, Candace, and their sons. His generosity was truly unparalleled. Benjamin Kruse was a devoted father, husband, a loving son, a loyal and amazing brother, and a caring nephew, uncle, grandson and cousin.
His sense of humor and ready smile brightened every situation. 
His unwavering faith in God saw him through life’s many testing grounds.
“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet My unfailing love for you will not be shaken, nor My covenant of peace be removed, saith the Lord.” (Isaiah 54:10).
He is survived by parents James and Linda Kruse; sons, Karver and Parker Kruse; wife, Candace Kruse; brothers, Jered (Alicia) Kruse, Corey (Amy) Kruse; sister, Sharon Kruse, brothers, Joshua Kruse and Joseph (Amy) Kruse and an entire tribe of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins. 
Arrangements were made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel and Crematory. Please sign Ben’s online guestbook at AlaskanFuneral.com.

Renn Tolman

Renn Tolman

Homer boatbuilder and musician Renn Tolman passed away peacefully in his tiny beachfront cabin on the afternoon of Saturday, July 5. He was 80.
A celebration of Renn’s life will be held at his boat shop in Homer at 4 p.m. Saturday, July 12.
Renn was well-known in Alaska coastal communities for designing and building the Tolman skiff, a practical dory-style v-bottom boat that found wide use among hardy seafarers on Kachemak Bay and around the world. His two do-it-yourself books, describing an economical “stitch-and-glue” construction process involving plywood and epoxy resin, sold thousands of copies. Tolman skiffs can be found in Germany, Norway, Australia and other countries. An old-school outdoorsman, Renn traveled far across open water on hunting and fishing trips. At his death he had just completed a new design, the Tolman Trawler.
As a flute and pennywhistle player in local bands and a step-dance teacher, Renn played a central role in Homer’s thriving contra dance scene, providing an authentic link to the New England and Cape Breton traditions he treasured. Every New Year’s Eve, his boat shop was thronged for a community dance, sometimes featuring ringer musicians flown in by Renn. He recorded a CD of Cape Breton and New England tunes, due to be released this fall.
Renn Tolman was born February 23, 1934, in Keene, New Hampshire. The Tolmans ran a small four season resort in Nelson, N.H., converted from the family farm, and played an important role in the revival of square and contra dancing. Renn’s father, Newt, a well-known flute player and writer of curmudgeonly Yankee charm, introduced the instrument to his son.
Renn left Tolman Pond for prep school at Vermont Academy, but flopped in his first attempt at college. After a three-year stint in the Army as an intelligence unit radio operator, he returned to graduate from the University of New Hampshire in 1959 with a B.A. in History. He taught in a private school, did graduate work briefly at Harvard, and then moved to the West in 1963. He was a tutor at a dude ranch, a hard rock miner, a carpenter and became a pioneer ski patrolman at Aspen, Colo. and Jackson Hole, Wyo.
He moved to Alaska in 1970, settling in Homer and finding work as a carpenter before moving into boatbuilding and then developing his own skiff, which he considered a practical boat for a working lifestyle.
“It’s not one of these goddamn weekend toy boats and it’s emphatically not one of these goddamn antique boats,” he told a reporter in 1991. “Those are for starry-eyed young dropouts or retired business executives.”
By turns courtly and cantankerous, but always generous, Renn fired off salty opinions in a raspy voice without ever quite shedding his New Hampshire vowels and prep school grammar.
Diagnosed with colon cancer in 2008 and given a poor prognosis, Renn continued to live an active life, hunting and fishing, playing flute, traveling regularly to New Hampshire to visit his girlfriend, skiing each winter in Idaho and Wyoming, and providing a vigorous step-dancing demonstration at his New Year’s dance six months ago.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Newt and Janet Tolman and Beth Barrell, and a sister, Sarah Barrell. He is survived by his late-in-life love, Betsy Street of Nelson, N.H.; his former partner of many years, Mary Griswold of Homer; a sister, Elizabeth Skinner of Mohawk Valley, N.Y.; and, among other relatives, cousins Barry Tolman of Nelson, N.H.; Mary Robinson Shonk of Dublin, N.H.; Susan Woodward Springer formerly of Seldovia; and Colin Tolman of Homer.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Kachemak Heritage Land Trust, 315 Klondike Ave, Homer, AK 99603.

Ezra B. Pastro

Ezra B. Pastro

Homer resident Ezra B. Pastro, 40, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 9, 2014 at South Peninsula Hospital in Homer.
Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, July 26, at the Christian Community Church in Homer. Pastor Bill Williams will officiate.  A potluck will follow the services.
Ezra was born Sept. 14, 1973 in Santa Barbara, Calif. He moved with his family to Alaska in Sept. 1975 and lived in Anchorage. In 1981, he moved to Anchor Point until June 1992, when he joined the U.S. Marine Corp. He returned to Anchor Point in 1996 after being discharged from the Marines, and then settled in Homer in 2011.
Ezra was working as a security guard at South Peninsula Hospital at the time of his passing. He was an avid online gamer and had recently taken up fishing again.
“Ezra will be fondly remembered for his unique sense of humor, kind heart and generosity,” his family wrote. “He had recently met a woman who completed him and brought him much happiness. He was proud to be called a Marine and he will be missed.”
Ezra is survived by his parents, James and Deborah Pastro of Homer; girlfriend, Martha Roderick of Homer; brother and sister-in-law, Josiah an Summer Pastro of Anchorage; and brother, Nicholas Kvasnikoff of Homer.
Arrangements were made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel in Kenai.

Jonathon W. Liebenthal

Jonathon W. Liebenthal

Lifelong Alaskan and Sterling resident Jonathon W. Liebenthal, 58, passed away Tuesday, July 8, 2014 on the Monopod platform in Cook Inlet from natural causes.
Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Monday, July 14, at Holy Transfiguration of Our Lord Russian Orthodox Church in Ninilchik.  Viewing will start one hour prior to services at the church.  Burial will follow funeral in the church cemetery.  Archpriest Thomas Andrew will officiate.  Pallbearers will be Damian Collum, Nathon Stonecipher, Torvald Hansen, Dexter Ogle, David Bear and Dan Leman.
Jon was born Dec. 12, 1955 in Homer.  He was educated in aerial mechanics, certified in welding and did sawmill homesteading.  He had lived in Ninilchik, Anchor Point, Homer and most recently in Sterling.  He was working for Hilcorp when he passed away.
Jon was a member of the Russian Orthodox Church.
“He was the most giving man anyone knew.” His family wrote.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Ed and Susie Liebenthal, and several brothers and sisters.
Jon is survived by his ex-wife, Sheri Liebenthal of Ninilchik; son and daughter-in-law, Nathon and Crystal Stonecipher of Kenai; daughter, Tiffany of Ninilchik; daughter-in-law, Sahar Stonecipher of Soldotna; grandsons, Ashton Stonecipher and Jaxson Millage, both of Soldotna, Damian Collum of Fort Greely, Alaska; granddaughter, Isabella Collum of Sterling; nieces, Raymie Hamann, Mara Stephen, and Erin Clemens, all of Anchorage; aunt, Mae Demidoff of Ninilchik; brother, Dexter Ogle of Homer; and sisters-in-law, Jamie Leman and family and Tammy Bear and family, all of Ninilchik.
Memorial donations and condolences may be sent to the family, P.O. Box 39368, Ninilchik, AK 99639.
Arrangements were by Peninsula Memorial Chapel in Kenai.
 

Diana Lee Frank

Anchor Point resident, Mrs. Diana Lee Frank, 73, died Sunday, June 29, 2014 at her home in Anchor Point with her husband by her side.
Funeral Services will be held 12:30 p.m. Monday, July 7, 2014 at the Calvery Baptist Church in Ninilchik, Alaska. She will be laid to rest at the Anchor Point Cemetery. Pastor Kit Pherson will be officiating.
Mrs. Frank was born July 19, 1940. She moved to Alaska in 1960 living in Anchorage for a while before finally moving to Anchor Point.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Hershel and Charlotte Davidson.
She is survived by her husband, Rocky Frank of Anchor Point; daughter, Keri O’Neill of Anchorage; sister, Paula Davis of La Quinta, California; and brother, Dennis Davidson of Molalla, Oregon.
Arrangements made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel & Crematory.

Esther M. Hill

Esther M. Hill

Homer resident, Mrs. Esther “Peg” M. Hill, 84, died Tuesday, July 8, 2014 at South Peninsula Hospital Long Term Care in Homer.
No services will be held.
Esther was born Dec. 4, 1929 in Fort Dodge, Iowa. She moved to Anchorage in 1960 where she lived up until 1982. In 2008 she moved to Homer where she lived up until the present.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Kenneth Hill; sister, Arlene Jennrich; brothers, William “Bill” Armstrong and Robert “Bob” Armstrong.
She is survived by her son, Thomas “Tom” Hill (Solangel) of Cape Coral, Fla.; daughters, Carol Kirkland (Walt) of Dallas, N.C. and Patricia “Pat” (Lyle) Bellamy of Homer; sons, Jack (Teresa) Hill of Redmond, Ore., James “Jim” Hill of Anchorage and Gerald “Jerry” Hill of Anchorage.

Bailey Ruth Gillis

Bailey Ruth Gillis

Anchorage resident, Bailey Ruth Gillis, 18, passed away peacefully at her home Wednesday, July 14, 2014.
A celebration of Bailey’s life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, July 19, at the Anchorage Lutheran Church, 1420 N Street. A reception will follow.
Bailey was born Sept. 30, 1995 to Vern and Karen Gillis in Anchorage, Alaska. She was born with congenital cytomegalovirus, a burden shared by too many.
“Bailey was a gift to everyone who looked into those beautiful blue eyes,” her family said. “When Bailey put her arms around our necks, she used every tiny muscle to hold on as tight as she could. She loved swinging, swimming, skiing, flashy lights, horses and everyone who took the time to see her for the precious little girl that she was inside of the obstacle of a body she lived in.”
Bailey is survived by her parents, Vern and Karen Gillis; brother, Jordan Jackson; her sister, Reagan Gillis. She was also blessed by a large extended family; some related by blood, and so many others who are embraced by Bailey’s loving spirit.
In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make donations to Stop CMV in Bailey’s Memory through stopcmv.com.
Arrangements were cared for by the Anchorage Funeral Home and Crematory. Please visit Bailey’s obituary and online guestbook at www.AlaskanFuneral.com.

Jason Austin Williams

Jason Austin Williams

Jason Austin Williams was born July 7, 1990, in Homer, Alaska. He passed away May 31, 2014, in Dallas, Ore. from a blood clot, following surgery two days earlier.
Jason lived life to the fullest, enjoying his childhood with his older sister, Charity. Jason enjoyed sports and outdoor activities; particularly snowboarding with his friends. Jason worked primarily as a commercial fisherman in the summer. He worked in food service and a variety of other jobs in the winter.
Jason was preceded in death by his mother, Jo Hanna Williams. He is survived by his sister, Charity, and nieces, Ariah and Ayana, of Bend, Ore.; father, Steven Williams, of Homer; grandparents, John and Joyce Williams of Homer and William and Donna Marinelli of Scappoose, Ore.; uncles and aunts, John and Erica Neland and family, Darren and Lorraine Williams, Stephanie Williams and family, Stephan and Kari Hale and Ralph and Teffani Story and family, and several cousins.
Jason will be missed by family and friends, and always remembered as a fun-loving and caring person. We are very thankful that Jason is with his mother and Savior, and is no longer suffering. We look forward to being with Jason again for eternity.
A private memorial for Jason will be held in Homer. His ashes will be spread where his mother’s were — on Poot Peak, across Kachemak Bay from Homer.

Pamela Kay Ramsdell

Pamela Ramsdell

Homer resident Pamela Kay Ramsdell, 66, passed away Saturday, July 26, 2014 at her home from natural causes.
A private family service will take place at a later date.
Pam was born Feb. 14, 1948 in Barstow, Calif. She worked in marketing for a health and fitness company, and moved to Alaska in 2004 and lived in Anchorage and Homer.
Pam enjoyed quilting, cooking and collectibles.
“She was much-loved and adored. She will be missed very much,” her family wrote.
Pam was preceded in death by her father, Ralph Woodruff, her mother, Joyce Creighton, and sisters, Terri Peterson and Cindy Wilson.
She is survived by sons, William Cody Craig and wife, Haley of Bend, Ore., Shane Trey Benya and Toby Adam Benya, both of Homer; brothers, Danny Woodruff of Seattle, Wash. and Andy Woodruff of Anchorage; sisters, Tina Woodruff and Rhonda Marchand both of Homer; and many loving family members and friends.
Arrangements made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel.

Mrs. Helen Mandzik

Mrs. Helen Mandzik, 92, of Soldotna, and formerly of Anchorage, passed away peacefully after a long illness on July 31, 2014 at Heritage Place.
Helen was born in Connecticut, the eldest of three sisters and two brothers. After graduating high school, she attended Harford Hospital School of Nursing and became a Nurse Anesthetist. She married Peter Mandzik and they had three sons.
Helen left her nursing career and became a full-time, stay-at-home mom and became an active volunteer in many community projects and services.
After her husband passed away, Helen moved to Alaska at the age of 60, and started an exciting new life. She had a passion for gardening, nature, hiking, camping out and exploring all parts of Alaska. She lived in Anchorage and became involved at the Mable T. Caverly Senior Center, later to become Board President and eventually the Executive Director.
Helen joined the “Prospector’s Club,” and began many new friendships with other seniors who loved exploring many different parts of Alaska and eventually some foreign countries overseas.
In the final years of her life, when Helen went for drives in a car or walks around Heritage Place, she would look up at the tall spruce trees in amazement of their size and beauty. Up to the end, she would greet all people with a smile and grasp on their hand. She was compassionate and would console people at Heritage Place who were having a difficult day. She has a warm and positive spirit and always time to listen to other people. How very fortunate we have all been to have shared in Helen’s life!
Helen was preceded in death by husband, Peter Mandzik. She is survived by sons and partners, Mark and Dawn of California, Matt and Donna of Hawaii and Gary Mandzik of Homer; six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Arrangements made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel.

Nancy Ruth Wrocklage
Anchorage resident Nancy Ruth Wrocklage, 66, went home to be with her Lord on July 23, 2014 after a courageous fight with cancer.
Born Nov. 23, 1947, in Quincy, Mass., Nancy traveled with her Navy family all over the states until she was 16. She graduated from Old Dominion College in Norfolk, Va. with a bachelor of science in elementary education and associate’s degree in veterinary science technology from State University of New York.
Nancy’s work with Guiding Eyes for the Blind in New York from 1969 to 1978 garnered her the distinction of being one of the first women to become a guide dog trainer in the country. Her love of dogs filled her life with great joy.
Nancy worked with Dr. James Scott at his veterinary practice when she first lived in Anchorage. She filled out her work life by joining the Library Resources Department for the Anchorage School District, retiring in 2003. An artist, writer, sister, friend, birder, knitter and animal-lover, Nancy’s life was full of lovely, wonderfully like-minded friends and acquaintances.
Nancy then discovered her “special seacoast town” of Homer and fell in love. She lived in Homer many summers, as well as one whole year, and spent many fun-filled days tide-pooling, following baby cranes, ushering at the local theatre, exercising with Strong Women and T’ai Chi, singing in the community chorus, going for walks. She enjoyed fellow birders, artists and gardeners, librarians, teachers and fishermen, Two Sisters Bakery, the Yarn Yurt and Pick and Pay, Jenny Lane Cottage and of course, Flakey the dog.
Nancy’s family wishes to say a heartfelt thank you to Katmai Oncology and the Oncology Rehab Center, as well as to all the physicians, nurses and caregivers at Providence Hospital. She was deeply grateful to have them as her journey partners.
Nancy is survived by her brothers John and Alan of Arizona; Peter and Christopher of Virginia; and sister Judy Blooms of Virginia, Uncle Richard Davies of California, as well as many cousins, nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Guiding Eyes for the Blind, Inc., 611 Granite Springs Rd., Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
Nancy will be missed by all whose lives she touched.

Bruce Willard

Bruce Willard passed away Aug. 9, 2014 in Arizona, where he had been undergoing cancer treatment. Born July 24, 1935 in Oakfield, Wisc.,  
Bruce was a Homer resident since 1946. He was a true Alaskan.
He homesteaded with his wife Linda in 1959, was a commercial fisherman, big game guide, company commander of the local National Guard, a longshoreman and a cattle rancher. He was on the board of directors of the Alaska Farm Bureau and a strong supporter of Alaska agriculture.
Bruce is preceded in death by his father George (Jess) Willard, his mother Alyce Willard, and sons Bruce Douglas and Jess Robert. He is survived by his wife Linda, sister Joann Butt, daughters Tammy Hagan and Kristin Willard, grandchildren Trisha Jones, Corissa Martin, Lacy Cissney, Connor, Devin, Jake and Allie Gleason, Caroline Gardner, Rebecca Willard, and great grandchildren Riley and Chase Jones, Charity and Thomas Martin, and Timmy and Emma Cissney.  
Bruce will be greatly missed by his family, friends and all who knew him. We take comfort that he is now with The Lord.
Memorial services will be announced and held at a later date.  

Anchor Point and Homer area resident Richard F. Kettell, 65, passed away Monday, Aug. 11, 2014 at South Peninsula Hospital in Homer. No services are planned at this time.
Richard was born Nov. 6, 1948 in Elmira, N.Y. He attended two years of college, majoring in English, and served in the U.S. Marine Corp during Vietnam beginning in 1968.
Richard was wounded and honorably discharged in 1972, after a year recovering in the hospital. He received the National Defense Service Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal for his service.
After leaving the military, Richard and his young family traveled across the country and eventually ended up in Alaska in 1976. They lived in Tanana for a time, then in the Homer and Anchor Point area. Richard also spent some years in Texas driving across the country as a truck driver.
Richard loved history, literature, music, driving and watching NASCAR. He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Jason and Jeanne Kettell, and grandsons, Bruce and Salem, all of Anchorage; his son, John Kettell and granddaughter, Emmalin, both of Homer.
Arrangements were made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel.

Connie Louise Prouty, age 62 of Anchor Point, passed away Aug. 13, 2014 at South Peninsula Hospital.
Connie was born Dec. 12, 1951 in Portland, Ore., to Lyle and Leta Mae (Wilson) Hutson. She moved to Alaska in 1977 and lived in Togiak, Levelock, Anchorage and Valdez Creek before settling in Anchor Point.
Connie was a member of the Anchor Point Baptist Church and was an EMT III with Anchor Point Emergency Services, where she received numerous awards. She enjoyed beading, photographing eagles and dog mushing.
Her family says, “Connie loved the Lord, hence she loved to help people. Being an EMT and a caregiver helped her to do this. She loved the outdoors and especially the 12.5 years she lived in a small cabin on Valdez Creek raising our daughters, dog mushing and viewing wildlife. She gave incredible support to her husband through their 31.5 years of marriage — in both the good and bad times.”
She was preceded in death by her parents, Lyle Hutson and Leta Mae Adams.
Connie is survived by her loving husband, Michael; daughters, Addie Prouty and Katherine Prouty all of Anchor Point; brother, Donald Hutson of Hayden, Idaho and sisters, Donna Howard of Redmond, Ore. and Lonna Carnahan of Bend, Ore.
Memorial services will be next summer at the Prouty home in Anchor Point.

Frank J. Vondersaar

Longtime Homer resident, Mr. Frank J. Vondersaar, 63, died Friday, Sept. 12, 2014 at Alaska Regional Hospital in Anchorage. 

Funeral Services were held Sept. 19 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Homer. Frank was born Oct. 4, 1950 to John and Susanna (Faye) Vondersaar in Kokomo, Ind. He received a few master degrees in business and law, and also worked for the Air Force in the Research and Development Department from 1970 to 1986.
In 1986, he moved to Homer, but ended up working in Anchorage in the summer months at a fish packing plant up until 2001. In 2002 Frank started working for The Salvation Army Store in Homer, and worked there until present day. 
He was a member of the St. John’s Catholic Church in Homer, and spent numerous hours volunteering at the library, inspecting water quality for Cook InletKeeper, assisting on the Board of Elections, cleaning fish tanks at the Pratt Museum and helping people at the Salvation Army in Homer whenever he could.
Frank loved flying, eating fish, reading, learning new things, and building models. 
The family wrote, “He was a kind, dedicated father, son, brother, uncle and friend.”
Frank is survived by his daughter, Sarah Vondersaar of Bishop, Calif.; brother and sister in-law, Dennis and Jeannie Vondersaar of Kokomo, Ind.; nephews, Dennis Jr. and John Paul Vondersaar, both of Kokomo, Ind.; niece, Jennifer Vondersaar of Kokomo, Ind. and several great nieces and nephews. 
Homer Funeral Home and Cremation Services handled the arrangements. Please sign Frank’s online guestbook at AlaskanFuneral.com. 

Jerry Scholes

Longtime Homer resident Jerry Scholes joined his parents and his beloved wife and dance partner, Mary, in Heaven on July 14, 2014.
Jerry was born Dec. 21, 1931 Seattle, Wash. He graduated from Sequim High School, where he was the band leader and star quarterback. He joined the Navy Seabees and trained in Point Hueneme, Calif.
Jerry began flying during this period, and became an accomplished pilot, later flying his family on vacation throughout Washington and British Columbia. He enjoyed canoeing and fishing, playing the piano and entertaining his family and friends with stories.
Jerry owned and operated Coastal Refrigeration, which brought him from Seattle to Homer in 1979. He was well-known in the fishing community around the state, as he traveled to repair equipment in the boats. He was always accompanied by Mary.
Jerry and Mary were involved with the Homer Rescue Mission; they attended Grace Bible Church regularly and attended the annual Lutefisk diners at the Lutheran Church. He was a caring friend to many and will be deeply missed.
Jerry is survived by two daughters: Linda Story and Abby (Michael) Uschold; grandchildren, Andy (Bridget), Keith, Tim and Spencer; sister Patricia (Terry) Higman; five nieces; one grand niece; three grand nephews and many close friends. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m., Oct. 19 at Grace Bible Church (Kachemak Community Center.) It is located at the corner of East End Road and Bearcreek Drive. In lieu of flowers, a contribution to your favorite charity in Jerry’s honor is a wonderful way to commemorate his life.

Jocelyn Rohde

Jocelyn DeShong Rohde, 81, died peacefully at South Peninsula Hospital in Homer, on Sept. 20, 2014, with her family at her side. She died of pancreatic cancer.
Jocelyn was born Nov. 21, 1932, in Kansas City, Mo., and lived there until her marriage. At Southwest High School, Jocie — as she was affectionately known all her life — was active in student leadership and public speaking. She was student commencement speaker at graduation, and then attended Kansas City Junior College, where she was a princess for the 1951 Kansas City Centennial celebration.
Jocelyn married John T. Rohde, Jr., on May 27, 1951, in Alameda, Calif. The couple lived there two years while John served in the Navy, and went on to raise three children, Nancy, John III (Hans), and Ruth, in Edwardsville, Kan. They later relocated to Crested Butte, Colo.
Blessed with abundant energy and optimism, Jocie had a vivacious personality and enjoyed getting to know people. She drove the Bookmobile, was the library story lady, and taught square dancing. A lifelong Episcopalian, Jocie loved the Lord and His Word, and worked tirelessly in the various parishes she attended. She worked as Sunday school teacher, lector, lay Eucharistic minister, youth group leader and mentor for Education for Ministry classes at parishes in Arizona and Colorado.
Jocelyn had a keen curiosity about places and people, a boundless spirit of adventure and an unquenchable joy in the wonders of creation and the natural world. She loved gardening, sewing and quilting and — above all — hiking.
The family moved to Colorado in 1970, where they owned the Pioneer Lodge. The lodge, a resort near Crested Butte, fostered Jocie’s love of hiking. She hiked all the mountains around Cement Creek in Gunnison County, Colo. Later, she led three group hikes to the bottom of the Grand Canyon, starting when she was 66 and completing the third trip at age 70.
After selling the resort, Jocie and her husband spent several years raising quarter horses in Gunnison, Colo. In 1987, they were called to be the directors of El Hogar de Amor y Esperanza in Tegucigalpa, Honduras; a home and school for extremely poor children. They planned to serve three years, but stayed for more than nine.
At El Hogar, “Doña Jocie” wore many hats: administrator, teacher, fundraiser, hair-cutter, chief hug-giver and stand-in mother to literally hundreds of children. During the Rohdes’ tenure, El Hogar grew from two campuses serving 125 children, to three campuses serving 175 children. After returning to the U.S., Jocie continued as an El Hogar board member until 2012.
Jocie was a 57-year member of the P. E. O. Sisterhood, initiated into Chapter FG in Bonner Springs, Kan. She later transferred to Chapter AN, in Colorado. She served on the Colorado State Executive Board and was state president in 1986. At the time of her death, she was a member of Chapter DK in Cañon City, Colo., and was working to start a chapter in her new hometown of Homer.
You could often find Jocie making quilts, comforters and quilted bags. At her Colorado parishes, she helped start a blanket-making project for all newborns at the local hospital. She donated numerous items to church fundraisers; her quilts and comforters continue to grace beds all over Fremont County, Colo.
Up until her death Jocie was still sewing on her beloved Singer featherweight; a first Christmas gift from her husband.
The Rohdes fell in love with Alaska in 1977, returning many times to visit until finally deciding to put down roots. They have been residents of Homer since 2012, returning to Cañon City, Colo., for the winter.
In Homer, Jocie was active on the Auxiliary at South Peninsula Hospital, working in the gift shop and donating her beautiful, handmade nightgowns and purses. She especially appreciated the vivid flower colors made possible by Alaska’s long gardening season.
Jocelyn is survived by her husband of 63 years, John; her three children: Nancy Hamersky (Jim), Denver, Colo.; John “Hans” Rohde (Connie Hill), Colorado Springs, Colo.; Ruth Lively (John), New Haven, Conn.; six grandchildren: Nick Danni, Gunnison, Colo.; Cathryn Hoagland; Jocelyn Regas and Charles Hamersky, all of Denver; Justine Talling, Boulder, Colo.; and Danielle Rohde, San Francisco, Calif.; seven great-grandchildren; her brother, Dr. Alfred DeShong, Blue Springs, Mo.; and numerous nieces and nephews.
A memorial service was held Sept. 23, at St. Augustines’ Episcopal Church in Homer. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to El Hogar Ministries, 70 Church Street, Winchester, Mass., 01890; or St. Augustines’ Episcopal Church, P. O. Box 4274, Homer, Alaska, 99603-4274.
Arrangements were made by The Homer Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Please sign Jocelyn’s online guestbook at AlaskanFuneral.com. 

Jeffrey Allen “Ponytail” Geiser

Jeffrey Allen “Ponytail” Geiser, 60, passed away suddenly at his home on Aug. 11, 2014.
 Memorial services were held Aug. 15 and 16, at his riverside home.
 Jeff was born Aug. 27, 1953 in Marin County, Calif. to Opal and Fredricco Geiser. He grew up in the deserts of Baja and Arizona racing dune buggies. He then became a professional racer and skilled mechanic. After moving to Alaska in his 20s, he resorted to living off the land. Fishing, hunting or snowshoeing were just some of the things Jeff could do. He also brought home a moose for his daughter almost every year.
If there was anything that Jeff loved the most, it was his children. No matter what he did, Jeff and those who knew him understood it and accepted it.  He was a very smart, talented and humorous man and he could light up a room with his smile.
 Jeff was preceded in death by his mother and father, brothers, David and Jim, brother-in-law, Clayton Richardson, mother-in-law, Noella Harford and father-in-law, Robert Harford.

He is survived by his daughters, Mary Webb of Homer and Rachael McGuire of Chula Vista, Calif.; son, Tanner Geiser of Kenai; daughters-in-law, Jami Mumey and Rhonda McCall and many friends including, Cheryl Richardson, Ron and Marlene Peterson, Abe and Kiki Abrahamson, Bob and Patty Russel, John and Sheryl Howe and John Chappel all of Homer.
Arrangements were made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel.

“Captain Jimmy”

James Edward Graham, Jr.

To the best man we’ve ever known. How do you sum up an amazing life in a few short paragraphs, simply impossible. We are sure going to try Dad. James Edward Graham, Jr. of Homer, 71 years young, died surrounded by family at ANMC September 27th, 2014 in Anchorage. Jimmy was born March 1st, 1943 at Providence Hospital in Anchorage, the celebrated only child of Mary Irene Johnson Graham of Haines, and James Edward Graham Sr. of Lead, South Dakota. Jimmy spent the majority of his life residing in Homer, a lifelong fisherman, hunter and boat captain who loved all things that involved the Alaskan outdoors. Through young adulthood he fished the family boats, the Mary G. and the J Boy, alongside his family. Jimmy joined the United States Navy in 1961 and proudly served in the Seabees for 6 years. He then worked many years for City Electric and Glacier State Telephone Company as a lineman in Anchorage and on the Kenai Peninsula. He the joined Crowley Maritime and retired from there as a respected Tug Boat Captain.
Jimmy was always known for his humor, as he had the uncanny ability to walk into a room, and soon after it erupted into laughter. His charisma was renowned by everyone who met him. He could always be counted on to be a man of honor and made friends wherever he went. A hopeless romantic at heart Jimmy had multiple unions, some of which were celebrated.
Jimmy is survived by children Kurtis, David, Nikki and Darla Graham, granddaughter Kaydence Korevec, and dog Sugar. He is predeceased in death by his son James Edward Graham, III.
Jimmy’s ashes will be spread between 60 foot and Gull Rock in Kachemak Bay, as is Graham Family Tradition. He will also have a plaque placed at the Seafarers Memorial on the Homer Spit.
The family plans to have a celebration of life and spreading of ashes the summer of 2015.
“Anchors Aweigh my Boys.”

Steve Sauter Faller, Jr.

Longtime Alaska and Homer resident, Steve Sauter Faller, Jr., passed away at his home on Nov. 12, 2014.
Born in Detroit, Mich., Steve learned his skills as a finish carpenter from his father, Steve Faller, Sr. – an immigrant from Austria. Shortly after returning from service with the U.S. Army in Germany, Steve Jr. met and married the love of his life, Geri. In 1958, the two packed their belongings, and their daughter, and relocated from California to Alaska.
Steve worked many years for the Greater Anchorage Area Borough before moving to Halibut Cove and the life of a commercial fisherman on his vessel, the Balboa, in 1970. He built his home in Homer, completing it in 1980, and settled down to work for the City of Homer until he retired. Steve was a member of the Elks Club, joining the Anchorage Lodge in 1966 and later joining the Homer Lodge. He enjoyed reading, woodworking and working with his hands in general. His biggest enjoyment came from working with blossoming plants, especially his rose bushes.
Steve’s family remembers him as the guy who could always do or build anything. Once he set his mind to it, that was it; it was set in stone to be accomplished. Steve had a special way about him. He never yelled or seemed to get angry, but you knew to listen when he spoke. He had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh. He noticed quirky things that made him chuckle, and was one of the smartest, most humble and honest men we knew. He loved our Grandma until his last breath, and we will all miss his wisdom and sense of humor. We believe he could solve all the world’s problems, and consider him a great example of the term, “The Greatest Generation.”
Steve is survived by his wife of 60 years, Geri Faller of Homer; his brother Carl Faller of Calif.; daughter, Carmion (Don) Armstrong of El Paso, Texas; grandchildren, Carmion (Bill) Fuhrman of Paris, Tenn., Kim (Eric) Caley of Surprise, Ariz.; James (Teryl) Armstrong of Anchorage, 12 great-grandchildren and many precious friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Steve Faller, Sr., his mother Barbara Faller and his grandson Robert Armstrong. No memorial is planned at this time.

Sharon Francis Clause

Sharon Francis Clause, 71, passed away in Pebble Beach, Calif. on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2014. She was born Feb. 26, 1943 in La Crosse, Wisc.
Sharon studied English Language Arts at San Diego State University, attended the University of Minnesota and Hopkins High School in Hopkins, Minn. She taught school for many years in the San Diego school system.
Sharon was an independent consultant for Scentsy Fragrance, co-owner with her husband, Steve, of S. Clause Creations. She also designed jewelry that she sold at the Homer Farmer’s Market and the Treasure Chest.
Sharon is survived by her husband Steve Clause, son Steven and his wife Becki, brother Richard Feally and sister-in-law Laverne, niece Kelly and many other nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her father, Frank Feally and mother, Meg Feally.
“Sharon was a beautiful soul, kind and generous. She had a great sense of humor and loved being on Kachemak Bay to fish with her husband, Steve. Sharon was a beloved daughter, wife, mother and grandmother and she will be dearly missed by family and friends. Her memory will live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew and loved her,” her family wrote.
Sharon’s ashes will be spread on Kachemak Bay with a memorial service held at a later date in Homer. Arrangements made by Alta Vista Mortuary in California. Please post online condolences at www.altavistamortuary.com

Judith Ann Nester

Judith Ann Nester (nee Katski), 68, passed away at the Big Bend Hospice in Tallahassee, Fla. on Nov. 21, 2014 after a long struggle with breast cancer. Judi was born in Annapolis, Md. to Harold Joseph Katski Jr. and Mary Katherine Katski, who both predeceased her. Judi grew up in Shady Side on the Maryland shore of the Chesapeake Bay, and moved to the District of Columbia for high school. She then began to work for the federal government at the General Services Administration.
She later moved back to Annapolis to take a position with the Defense Department at Fort George Mead in Laurel, Md. She later acted as a consultant to a defense contractor in Fairfax, Va.
Always an avid sailor, Judi met Robert Burns in 1988 and together, they sailed a 38-foot sailboat around most of the world from 1992 until 2006. They visited more than 70 countries and territories, before returning to the United States as New Zealand citizens. While on that trip, Judi and Robert were married in New Zealand in 2000. Looking for an interesting place to live, the couple drove through the U.S. and Canada, then settled in Homer, Alaska for five years.
There, Judi threw herself into volunteer work for several organizations, including the Center for Alaska Coastal Studies, Cook Inletkeeper, TEDxHomer and others. She started and organized Homer Hope, which collected clothing and food to benefit many needy Alaskans through the Homer Food Pantry. Besides her volunteer work, Judi established and operated the Fire and Ice Lodging Bed and Breakfast in Homer that attracted rave reviews and visitors from half a dozen countries around the world.
In 2011, Judi and her husband moved to Tallahassee where they could be closer to Robert’s son. From 2007 until her passing, Judi was devoted to her friendly dog, Faizel, who was able to visit her in the ICU at Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare.
Judi is survived by her husband, Robert H. Burns and step-son Denis B. Burns in Tallahassee; her brother David Katski, nephews Daniel Katski and Larry Meyer Jr., and nieces Emily Meyer, Rebekah Katski, and Cassandra Katski, all of whom live in Oregon. She was predeceased by her sister, Sharon Meyer of Klamath Falls, Ore.
Visitation will be at Culley’s Meadowwood Funeral Home in Tallahassee on Friday Dec. 5. Funeral services will be held at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Tallahassee, the following day.
In lieu of flowers, Judi requested a contribution be made to the American Cancer Society, which does so much to help those battling this disease.

Mary Bush

Mary Margaret Bush, 46, of Ormond Beach, Fla.., passed away unexpectedly of natural causes on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2014.A native of Ohio, Mary recently returned to Ormond Beach from Homer, Alaska where she has lived for the past 12 years.
Mary had a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Central Florida and was a Certified Nursing Assistant. She took great joy in caring for her patients.
Mary was preceded in death by her father, Herman Francis Bush. Surviving to cherish her memory are her mother and step-father, Sandra and Warren McGonigal of Satsuma, Fla.; sister and brother-in-law, Emily “Kris” and Scott Light, along with her precious niece, Amanda “Mandy” Light. She is also survived by two uncles, Robert (Laura) Scheldt and Dave (Mary) Scheldt. She also leaves her dear Alaska friend, Doug Toavs, along with longtime close friends in the Daytona Beach/Ormond Beach area.
It was often said of Mary that she had a “big” heart and loved to give to others. Mary loved animals, and possessed a genuine talent for painting and sketching; animals were her favorite subject. Her favorite verse in the bible is Isaiah 40:31 “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” 

John Michael Kettell

Longtime Homer resident, Mr. John Michael Kettell, 40, died Saturday, December 24, 2014 at his home in Homer. 
A celebration of John Michael’s Life will be held 2:00 p.m. Saturday, January 24, 2015 at Bishop Beach in Homer. 
Mr. Kettell was born August 22, 1974 in Elmira, New York.  He graduated from Homer high school in 1992.  He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from UAF and UAA.  He has lived in Alaska since 1976 living in Tanana and Fairbanks for a short while before moving to Homer.  John Michael worked for Fred Meyers in Anchorage for a bit and was a member of the St. John Catholic Church in Homer.  He volunteered for the respite program, football, baseball and track.  He loved collecting old comics, baseball cards, loved music and playing folk guitar. 
The family wrote, “He always said his daughter Emmalin was his heart. Jason his “Bro” was always his closets and trusted friend, you always saw them together growing up. He could always make you laugh.  John was close to his mother and Tom, he would always try to help.  John was so sensitive and kind.  He always tried to analyze life. He was a big guy with a big heart.”
He was preceded in death by his father, Richard Kettell.
He is survived by his daughter, Emmalin Taylor Kettell of Fairbanks; parents, Elizabeth and Tom Tymrak of Homer; brother and sister in-law, Jason and Jeanne Kettell of Anchorage; and nephews, Bruce and Salem Kettell of Anchorage. 
A memorial fund has been set up for John Michael’s daughter Emmalin Kettell with the Alaska USA account # 1489083.  You can donated to any local Alaska USA if you so desire. 
Arrangements made by the Homer Funeral Home & Cremation Services.  Please sign John Michael’s online guestbook at AlaskanFuneral.com.