Frank M. Wise
Howard Michael Byington
Dana Ray Bachiochi
Dana Ray Bachiochi, 64, of Happy Valley, Alaska passed away on Monday, January 5, 2015 in his home. Dana was born Monday, October 16, 1950 to Raphael (Ray) and Marilyn (Caywood) Bachiochi in Stafford Springs, Connecticut where he graduated, taught and eventually retired from teaching.
Bachochi received his master’s degree in art education and audio/video production and taught for 35 years in his home town of Stafford Springs before retiring in 2007 after suffering a stroke. In 2008, he moved to Alaska; living for a short time in Anchor Point.
After his stroke, he said, “I have been humbled.” He prayed that God would give him another chance to live and he put up a good fight on the road to recovery; constantly doing things that were thought impossible.
A consummate volunteer, he was constantly giving. He was a member of the Lion’s Club, Rotary International, Knights of Columbus, St. Edward’s Catholic Church in Stafford, St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Ninilchik, the Italian Club and Stafford Arts Commission.
He led Boy Scout, Cub Scout and Girl Scout troops in Connecticut and Alaska, as well as volunteering with Chapman School, Stafford Fish & Game, Alaska Prison Ministries, Anchor Point Chamber of Commerce and the Food Bank in Anchor Point.
Dana enjoyed bible study, swimming, baseball, football, painting, pottery, gardening, horseback riding, kayaking and fishing halibut and salmon. He loved cooking for large groups and made amazing spaghetti sauce. He loved the outdoors; camping and spending time with his family and friends. Dana even found time to run two New York City Marathons.
Dana’s family said, “He always had a twinkle in his eyes, no matter what life brought his way; he always looked at the glass as half-full. He was kind to everyone and everything; always putting others before himself. Dana did not have a mean bone in his body and was very compassionate and forgiving. He enjoyed working with kids, enjoying ‘the light bulb tuning on.’ His tenacity and passion for life, God and family was an example of how to live. The hole that he has left in the heart of his wife and people that had a chance to know him will never be filled.”
Dana was preceded in death by his mother, Marilyn. He is survived by his loving wife, Gilberte (Gibby) Bachiochi; sons, Matthew and wife, Kat of New York City and Mark of Stafford, Conn.; daughter, Kelley and husband, Eddie Chollett of Paris, France; step daughters, Echo Paixcio of Salt Lake City and Allie and husband, Eric Schaff of Texas; father, Ray of Stafford, Conn.; grandchildren, Connor, Owen and Luke Bachiochi, Mathis and Aiden Chollett and Noah and Benjamin Schaff; sister, Realyn Skelly of Stafford Springs; uncle, Dick Bachiochi and wife, Loraine of Florida and many cousins all over the country.
A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church (just North of the fairgrounds on Sterling Hwy) 1:00 P.M. Saturday, January 24, 2015 with Father Bob officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in to the family at P.O. Box 39603 Ninilchik, AK 99639. Please visit Dana’s online obituary and sign his guestbook at www.alaskanfuneral.com
Robert P. James, Homer Pioneer homesteader, passed to his rest on Monday, Jan. 26, 2015 — his 89th birthday. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5, at Homer Seventh-Day Adventist Church, 210 E. Pioneer Ave. Full obituary to follow.
Frank M. Wise
Frank M. Wise, was born August 1930 in Seminole, Okla. to Rufus Earl and Alice Jackman Wise. He was preceded in death by his parents, sister Janelle Collins, and brothers Bobby Dale Wise, Ray Nolan Wise, Donald Wise, Harold Wise and Leo Wise.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Cora Mae, and five children: Richard and Eileene Wise, Nilane and John Lasko, Katherine Wise, Nathan and Virginia Wise and John and Lisa Wise.
Grandchildren include: Stephanie and Jeremy Young; Marty and Joni Wise; Tina and Ash Moore; Matthew, Kady and Frankie Lasko; Sam Wise; Jessica Veldstra; Jake Wise; Janyce and Cameron Larrick; Josiah Wise; Cory Wolf, Brett, TJ and Sarah Wise.
Great grandchildren include: Reece and Brennen Young; Brianna, Devin, Camden, Layci and Andrea Wise; Maddie, Corbin and Gavin Moore; Isaac Lasko; Patrick, Rebekah, Daniel and Talia Veldstra; Tristyn and Franklin Larrick and Micah Wolf.
He is also survived by sister Roxie and Charles Fowler; brother Charles Richard and Doris Wise and many nieces and nephews.
Frank grew up in Broken Bow, Okla. and Horatio Texarkana, Ark. He was active in show horses, rodeo and horse training. He was a very independent adventurous soul known at ages 10 and 11 to take a horse and pack mule into the hills of Oklahoma to camp for the weekend. His horse Smoky would walk a mile on his hind legs with Frank on his back.
Frank joined the Navy in 1947. He experienced many adventures, including going to Adak and Kodiak. Frank met Cora Mae when she was 14 and working in an ice cream parlor. It started with a bet, a kiss and a slap, with “I’ll fix you, I’ll marry you young man.” Two years later in 1950, they married.
Three years into the marriage, Frank asked if Cora Mae was willing to move to Alaska. She said she would go anywhere for a year. Sixty-one years later, Cora is here to stay. Frank transferred from Red River Arsenal to Elmendorf in 1953. (He claims she didn’t ask to go home to Arkansas until a day after her year was up.)
After a year in Anchorage, in the summer of ‘54, they took a trip to Homer, saw Kachemak Bay and decided to move. Their years here have been an adventure. They bought the old George Dahlgren homestead on Crossman Ridge and then the Jake McLay homestead at the top of McLay Road.
In 1956, Frank worked for the FAA and territory of Alaska, then for the State of Alaska as airport manager in charge of many small airports in Alaska. He surveyed airfields all over Alaska after the 1964 earthquake to assess the damage.
In 1965, the family started commercial fishing on the F/V Icelander. In 1970, Frank built the F/V Kachemak Lady, and continued seining herring and salmon, pot shrimping, and long-line halibut fishing with an attempt at clam dredging as a family. Frank was part of the “Blue Fleet.”
In 1971, an injury changed what Frank could do. He fought pain the rest of his life, but still tried to do many things. In 1976, Frank was forced by his injury to retire from fishing and his sons took over.
Frank had many talents and worked hard to support his family. He worked for Jake McLay as a big-game guide, mostly for moose and bear at Ptarmigan Head in the Caribou Hills. He guided American and International hunters in fulfilling their dream hunts.
He worked for Arndt Brothers Construction all over Alaska. In Homer, he helped build the first phase of the sewer system. Frank worked as a longshoreman, tying up ships and dock work at the Homer Harbor. He worked for George Hamm building boats and running his shop. He learned how to use fiberglass, and used that knowledge to create other products he used in life.
Frank hunted moose and bear, and occasionally rabbit and squirrel locally for his own family freezer. He raised chickens, turkeys and rabbits by the hundreds, and had family “parties” to process meat for the freezer. A chicken-plucking party with an electric chicken plucker is hard to beat as a family bonding event.
Frank took up cooking for construction crews and worked for NOAA doing research in Alaska waters. He was also an avid gardener. He raised a huge garden every year with extra to share with those in need.
He raised large quantities of dahlias, gladiolus, lilies and anything that would grow and look beautiful in the yards and flowerbeds for Glacierview Baptist Church, until he was unable to do the work. In the fall, we would cut all the flowers, make arrangements and give them away so the bulbs could be dug up, cleaned and stored dry for the winter.
The bulbs were split to make more plants, and we had over $40,000 worth of dahlia bulbs at one point. It was a lot of work, but a beautiful reward enjoyed by the whole town. Many a morning — at 3 a.m. — you could drive by the church and see him watering the flowerbeds. He was up and they needed water.
Frank served as God’s servant in the church and ministry as long as he was physically able. He was a spiritual leader, working with youth, telling stories of “Molly the Moth.” He did repairs as necessary, taught Sunday school classes and worked in Awana. He cared daily for 20-plus Shetland ponies for Higher Ground Baptist Bible Camp at the old Gregoire homestead for many years, until the camp relocated in Sterling, Alaska.
Frank was involved with local youth groups and was active in the local ski club. He served as president of the PTA for several years.
Frank and Cora Mae always provided wonderful meals and used the home God gave them to house visitors and missionaries.
One missionary needed a break from the field in India, and stayed for six months (by invitation). At Rick’s graduation from seminary in Indiana, in an auditorium of 10,000 people, the speaker unexpectedly honored Frank and Cora Mae for their hospitality and generosity, he had been in our home. The Alcan was traveled many times over the years, with adventure on every trip.
Frank was a wonderful storyteller; the truth seemed fictional when told by Frank. His adventures are legendary. Every situation — no matter how difficult — eventually ended up with humor thrown into the mix. He tackled many things naturally that most of us would say could not be done.
He brought a D8 Cat off a remote frozen lake with a broken leg because his boss told him it needed to be done — but forgot about his leg. Frank had already successfully done the job by the time his boss called and said, “don’t worry about it, I forgot about your leg.”
Frank was a friend to anyone in need. If he saw a need and could provide help — even at a sacrifice to himself — he helped and never expected anything in return.
And then there was “Papaw.” Fishing and camping trips a zing wire in the backyard, an ice chute a little too fast and slick for the kids to sled down. He had a worm farm, where he paid his grandkids a penny for every two worms they brought him. He taught about life and how to fix any issue with ingenuity. He loved reading to the little ones and riding the old tractor while plowing the garden.
Everyday lessons of life became adventures with Papaw. He was patient, kind and loving — but firm. You always knew he loved God and you.
Frank lived a humble life, and was a Godly example. He will be missed by all the lives he touched.
Leonard Billotte
Leonard Billotte, aged 88, of Homer passed away from liver cancer on Thursday, January 29, 2015 at South Peninsula Hospital.
Leonard was born to Russell and Ruth (Hurley) Billotte on Thursday, November 15, 1926 in Clearfield, Pennsylvania.
Leonard moved to Alaska after proudly serving his country as a firefighter aboard the USS Saginaw in the US Navy and attending the Arizona Institute of Aeronautics in Tucson, Arizona. He first moved to Fairbanks in 1968 before moving to Anchorage in 1970; finally moving to Homer in 1976 where he worked as a setnetter, served as Mayor of Kachemak City and opened Kachemak Boots and shoes.
He loved anything to do with aeronautics and planes, and always had a joke for everyone.
He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 65 years, Geraldine; parents, Russell and Ruth and brother, Cleatus.
Leonard is survived by his daughter, Terry Billotte of Homer; son, Mike Billotte of Terra Haute, Indiana and granddaughters, Tina Sanders of Tucson, Arizona and Ashliegh, Tiffany, Bear and Nikka Billotte all of Terra Haute, Indiana.
Please visit Leonard’s online obituary and sign his guestbook at www.alaskanfuneral.com
Robert P James
Robert P “Bob” James, 89, Homer pioneer homesteader, died Monday, January 26, 2015 at South Peninsula Hospital, Homer, AK.
Bob was born January 26, 1926, in Grand Junction, Colorado, to Parnell and Cleo (McBride) James. The family were prominent local ranchers; in the crash of 1929 Bob’s grandfather Sam James saved the local bank by making a large deposit. Parnell was killed by a kicking horse when Bob was five, leaving Cleo to raise Bob and younger brother Russell, until she remarried a few years later. Growing up, Bob occasionally lived and worked at the Sam and May James ranch, as well as other spreads in the area.
In his teen years Bob took up leather carving, becoming quite skilled at hand-tooled gun scabbards and saddlebags. He was commissioned to tool a double holster and belt, later used by the actors in Hollywood Westerns popular at the time.
He was a daring motorcycle rider, pulling stunts with his Indian such as sliding it under a parked train to avoid pursuit by an overzealous cop. When drafted, he took the bike apart in his step-dad’s garage so his younger brothers would not ride it. Unfortunately, the family had a garage sale. The pile of nuts and fenders was unwittingly sold!
Because of religious convictions, Bob served in WWII as a conscientious objector, and was stationed at a hospital in Jamaica. Upon discharge in 1946, he returned to Grand Junction where he got a job with the State maintaining water reservoirs on Black Mesa. Except for the deer hunting, it was a bit tame; he jumped at a change in May of 1951 when Fred Frakes, an army buddy, invited him along as Fred flew a single-engine plane to Alaska.
They ended up in Dillingham, on Bristol Bay, where they stumbled into the large Smith-Moody clan – with its flock of eligible young women. By November, Robert James, the self-proclaimed “woman-hating cowboy” was married to Doris.
The bustle of town grated on Bob’s independent spirit, and soon after the birth of their first child, he said to Doris, “You have too many relatives here. Let’s go somewhere else!” They arrived in Homer in May of 1953, and Bob staked a homestead east of McNeil Canyon. Carrying toddler and baby, the young couple would catch a ride to the end of the road (at Middleton’s), walk down Kilcher’s road and Dutch Ditch. Traversing the canyon on game trails, they hiked thru the woods to the clearing where Bob had pitched a wall tent.
A cabin was built, and then moved up the bench to a better view and gardening site. Bob hired a cat to punch a tractor trail around the head of the canyon. Two more boys were added to the family, and in the following years growing potatoes became a way of life. Bob was a detail man, teaching his children to pull every horsetail and taking great pride when the Alaska Certified Seed inspectors declared his fields the cleanest in the State. In winter, he sat for hours in the semi-dark cellar dusting and sorting potatoes for sale in 100-lb burlap bags: Bakers, number ones, number twos, seed size. With quilt-lined, hand-made wooden box atop hydraulic-lift arms, and stacked with potatoes, the 1958 Ford tractor became a familiar sight on the 13-mile road to Homer.
The early 1970’s brought hardship and tragedy to Bob’s family. The eldest son drowned in a fishing accident on the Naknek River; the homestead cabin burned to the ground; and Doris nearly died from colon cancer. Still the land endured, and while the other children tasted life Outside, Bob and Doris remained on the homestead, nurturing potatoes, strawberries, and each other.
Although in the last few years they have lived winters in more comfortable situations, Bob’s plan was to go back to the homestead come Spring.
Robert P James was preceded in death by his father and mother; bother, Russell James; half-sister, Betty Crow; half-brother, William Crow; and son, Jerry Samuel James. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Doris R James of Homer, AK; daughter, Judith A James (M. Walter Johnson) of Homer, AK; son, Jesse R James (Shirley), of Williston, ND; son Jimmie W James, of Homer, AK; grandson, Jeremiah B Fowler of Portland, OR; step-grandson Jim L James, of Walla Walla, WA; step-granddaughter Joellen Haynes (Clay) of Richland, WA; and five great grandchildren; sister, Etta Portenier, of Milton-Freewater, OR; and many nieces and nephews and their children.
Friends and potato eaters are invited to services on Thursday, February 5, at 2 pm at the Homer Seventh-day Adventist Church, 210 East Pioneer, Homer, AK. Burial will be at a family gathering after breakup.
Annie K. Ross
Annie K. Ross, 77, passed away Jan. 20, 2015.
She will be forever loved by her husband of 40 years, Mark V. Ross, her children and step-children Wally Tingook, Carl Tingook Jr., Charles S. Ross, Joseph “Mike” Ross, Ron Tingook, John Ross, Maude Halbur and Crystal Tingook.
She is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Annie loved spending time with her grandkids, going to bingo with family and friends, sewing parkas and crafts and truly enjoyed seeing a smile on the faces of those she loved.
As the sun sets, we know it still shines by its reflection in the moon. As those who love her reflect what she has taught us, her light still shines through us. Remember her for little jokes, her skill and artistry in sewing, and how she wanted most of all for those she loved to do well in life and to be good.
Longtime Homer resident, Jodi Lynn Riley, 59, passed away Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015 overlooking Kachemak Bay in Homer with her family by her side.
A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
Jodi was born Sept. 7, 1955 in Goldendale, Wash., and graduated from Mount Vernon High School in Mount Vernon, Wash. She moved to Alaska in 1982, after a six-year stay in Hawaii and a five-year stay in California. She returned to Homer in 2007. Jodi was member of the Glacier View Baptist Church in Homer.
She is survived by her husband, Richard Riley of Homer; son, Justin Schei of Enum Claw, Wash.; sisters, Staci Hill of Monroe, Wash., Bev Curtis of Arlington, Wash., and Heidi Wylie of Mt. Vernon, Wash.; brothers, Bob Bacon of Everett, Wash. and Roy Baker of Granite Falls, Wash.; step daughters, Jenni Kozele of Auburn, Calif. and Selena Frank of Grants Pass, Ore.; three grandsons and two granddaughters.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in memory of Jodi to “Go Fund Me” on Jodi and Richard Riley’s Facebook timeline, or at www.gofundme.com/k95fow.
Arrangements were made by Homer Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Please sign Jodi’s online guestbook at AlaskanFuneral.com.
Michael John Hinsberger
Longtime Kasilof resident, Mr. Michael John Hinsberger, 57, died Thursday, February 5, 2015 at Heritage Place in Soldotna due to injury complications from an accident 9 years ago.
A Graveside service will be held 1:00 p.m. Saturday, February 21, 2015 at Spruce Grove Memorial Park in Kasilof, Alaska. A celebration of his life will follow the graveside service at 3:00 p.m. at the New Life Christian Fellowship Church, Mile 1 on the K-Beach Drive. Pallbearers will include Keith Morris, Levi Morris, Scott Hinsberger, Cameron Perry, Lowell Perry and Noah Perry.
Michael was born August 21, 1957 in Englewood, California. He graduated from Casa Robles High School in Orangedale, California. Michael moved in 1980 from California to Alaska where he lived in Homer, Anchor Point, Minto, where he rebuilt log houses for the village on a mission trip, and Anchorage before making Kasilof his final home. In 2004 he and the family moved to Lynchburg, VA for two years. Mike has been a welder since 1975, he worked as an EMT in Anchor Point from 1980 to 1982 and has been doing construction off and on from 1977 to 2006. He was a member of the Kalifornsky Christian Center, Anchor Point Chapel, and The Kachemak Bay Christian Center. Mike loved to work on other people’s cars and help with house construction at no charge. He loved shooting, preserving food, and mechanical work. He was an Eagle Scout, started his welding career in high school, loved the Alaskan outdoors, trapping, fishing, hunting, mining, and was a man of Christian faith and integrity.
He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Lenore Hinsberger of Kasilof; step-daughters, Lana Beth Perry of Kasilof and Leah Rebecca Simpson of Homer; step-sons, Cameron Adair Perry of Wasilla, Lowell Middleton Perry of Wasilla, and Noah Gabriel Perry of Kasilof; step-grandsons, Titus, Ezekiel, Isaac, Solomon and Benjamin Perry all of Wasilla; mother, Susan Esther Williams of Anchor Point; father, John Francis Hinsberger and his wife, Carmen of Corpus Christi, TX; sisters, Debbie Lynn Spence and husband Clinton of Pollock Pines, CA; brothers, William Scott Hinsberger and his wife Dawn of Wasilla and Keith Donald Morris and his wife Jenny of Kasilof.
Memorial donations and condolences may be mailed to P.O. Box 440 – Kasilof, Alaska 99610 C/O Rebecca Hinsberger.
Arrangements made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel & Crematory. Please sign or share a short story or memory about Mike at AlaskanFuneral.com.
Bertha Marie Seversen
Anchorage resident, Bertha Marie Seversen, 88, passed away at the Alaska Native Medical Center on Feb. 25, 2015.
A memorial service was held Sunday, March 8, at St. Innocent Russian Orthodox Church in Anchorage.
Bertha was born Jan. 16, 1927 in Lake Illiamna, Alaska. She lived in Homer until 1953, then moved to Anchorage, where she lived until her passing. Bertha loved Bingo and worked at C.I.N.A. Bingo in the late ‘70s to mid ‘80s. She enjoyed visiting relatives, shopping and eating out. She collected Fur Rondy pins and buttons, and was mindful to donate monthly to her favorite charities.
The family wrote, “She was very giving and always wanted to help anyone in need. Bertha was a devoted wife of 67 years to her husband Walter Seversen. She was the ‘worlds’ greatest cook,’ and always enjoyed cooking for family and friends. Her granddaughter and great grandkids meant the world to her. In her younger years she and Walter loved to go dancing, she could Jitterbug, Waltz and even dance the Polka.”
Bertha was preceded in death by her parents Charles and Parascovia Roehl, her son Randy Seversen, brothers Charlie Roehl, Edwin Roehl, Heinie Roehl and sister Sophia Chase.
She is survived by daughter Joan Wheelon of New Smynra, Fla; granddaughter Brandi Friars of Anchorage, and great grandchildren Bailey Purvis, Branwyn Coons and Braelyn Coons of Anchorage.
Services were under the direction of the Anchorage Funeral Home and Crematory. Visit Bertha’s online obituary and guestbook at www.AlaskanFuneral.com
James Michael Hendryx
James Michael “Mic” Hendryx passed away Feb. 25, 2015 at his home in Deep Creek, Alaska. Mic was a very open-hearted generous man, and had a gift to make each person he met feel special.
A service was held March 7 at The Kenai Peninsula Memorial Chapel & Crematory.
Mic was born in White Salmon, Wash. on March 11, 1949 to Ellen Keys Hendryx and George Hendryx. He served in the U.S. Army in Vietnam in the early 1970s, then worked as a heavy equipment operator and enjoyed going out to rural Alaska to work on airfields, building water and sewer systems throughout Alaska.
He was a father, grandfather, nephew, cousin, brother, uncle and friend to many.
Mic is survived by sons Sean (Barbara) of Nikiski, Jarred of Phoenix, Keene (Eulalia) Hendryx and grandchildren Kate Hendryx, and brothers Dezmond, Brandon and Hunter Wilson; Sharon and Jack Williford and family, Eric and Pat Billman and family. He had many adopted sons and grandchildren.
Mic leaves his beloved sister Karen Rhodes of Arizona, niece Shelly and Kris Kreps, Sara Baker and family, great niece Kaci Kreps Bartkowski, great nephew Kevin Kreps and cousins Marcy Hendryx and her children Duncan and Dana, and cousins Judy Busby and Sharon Blouin. He also leaves good friends Gary and Eileen Wright, Curt McClain and far too many to mention.
He leaves his beloved dog, Shelia, who was with him when he passed.
Mic was preceded in death by his parents Ellen Keys and George Hendryx, his favorite cousin, Mildred and John Gilman and Aunties Minnie and Bertha in Washington.
“We will miss him, his generous personality and his even bigger heart and easy smile. We will always hold him close and be grateful to have shared his life.”
Mic’s ashes will be sprinkled on his property in Deep Creek and along the beaches he loved to ride around on.
Arrangements were made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel and Crematory. Please sign the online guestbook at www.AlaskanFuneral.com
Lyle Cole
Longtime Kasilof resident, Mr. Lyle Douglas Cole died Monday, March 9, 2015 at Leah and Bob Handley’s home, where he was being lovingly cared for.
A memorial mass was held March 12 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church.
Lyle was born Nov. 22, 1930 in Kasilof, to Milton and Marion Cole at the fox farm established by his grandparent’s Perry and Lillian Cole at what is now the Pollard’s place. As a result of the rapid decline of the fox fur industry and because his mother didn’t like living in Alaska, his parents moved with Lyle and his sister Ramona back to their original home in Alder Creek, New York in 1932. His sister Jetty was born in New York and in 1936 the family moved to San Fernando, Calif. where his brother Russell was born.
Lyle graduated from high school in San Fernando in 1948. In 1949, he and a friend drove up the Alaska Highway in a 1929 Chevy with a homemade tent trailer. In 1950-51, he worked at Libby’s Cannery in Kenai and was an engineer on the power scow Beaver, skippered by his uncle, Comer Cole.
In 1951, Lyle was drafted into the army and sent to fight in Korea where he was almost killed by a sniper. At the age of 84, he finally received his Purple Heart in the mail — but didn’t bother to open it. He survived serious injuries, which resulted in permanent damage to his right arm. After his recovery and discharge from the army, Lyle attended the University of Alaska in Fairbanks for two years, and then went on to the University of Washington where he graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering. His heart was still in Alaska, so he returned to live there permanently.
Lyle worked at the Kenai Wards Cove Cannery in the summers, and in 1962, he built his own house and shop by the Kasilof River in Kasilof. He resided there the rest of his life.
Lyle was caretaker at the Kasilof Cemetery for many years, and was proud of the appearance that he was able to maintain there. He belonged to the Chevy Corvair Club and worked on many of them, as well as other car projects over the years. He was always designing and modifying cars. Lyle loved music and played various types of guitars, which he practiced daily. He enjoyed making trips to visit family in California, Oregon, Washington and Canada. He also saw the many friends he had made over the years.
Lyle was a lifelong bachelor, and is survived by his sisters Ramona Mathews of Sweet Home, Ore., Jetty Morton of Suquamish, Wash. and brother Russell (Frances) Cole of Kensington, Prince Edward Island, Canada, as well as many nieces and nephews.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Leprosy Missions, One ALM Way, Greenville, SC 29601.
Arrangements were made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel and Crematory. Please view Lyle’s online guestbook at AlaskanFuneral.com.
Donald Alexander Malcolm Jr.
Captain Donald Alexander Malcolm Jr., 60, died Feb. 28, 2015, nestled in the bosom of his family, while smoking, drinking whiskey and telling lies. He died from complications resulting from being stubborn, refusing to go to the doctor, and raising hell for six decades. Stomach cancer also played a minor role in his demise.
Don cherished family above all else, and was a beloved husband, father and grandfather. He met his future wife, Maureen (Moe) Belisle Malcolm, after months at sea, crab fishing. He found her in his bed and decided to keep her. Their daughter Melissa was born “early” six months later. They decided to have a boy a couple years later, and ended up with another daughter, Megan. He taught his girls how to hold their liquor, filet a fish and change a tire. He took pride in his daughters, but his greatest joy in life was the birth of his grandson Marley, a child to whom he could impart all of his wisdom that his daughters ignored.
After spending his formative years in Kirkland, Wash. with a fishing pole in hand, Don decided his life’s calling was to yell at deckhands on commercial fishing boats in Alaska. As a strapping young man of 19, he moved to Dutch Harbor to fulfill this dream. Over the next 40 years, Don was a boat cook, mechanic, deckhand, captain and boat owner. Although Don worked nearly every fishery in the Pacific Northwest at one time or another, his main hunting ground was the Bering Sea. He cut his teeth crabbing; kept his family fed by longlining halibut and black cod; then retired as a salmon gillnetter in Southeast Alaska.
Don had a life-time love affair with Patsy Cline, Rainier beer, iceberg lettuce salads and the History Channel (which allowed him to call his wife and daughters everyday in order to relay the latest WWII facts he learned). He excelled at attempting home improvement projects, outsmarting rabbits, annoying the women in his life and reading every book he could get his hands on. He thought everyone could, and should, live on a strict diet of salmon, canned peas and rice pilaf, and took extreme pride in the fact that he had a freezer stocked full of wild game and seafood. His life goal was to beat his wife at Scrabble, and although he never succeeded, his dream lives on in the family he left behind.
Don is survived not only by his wife, daughters and grandson, but by his father, Donald Malcolm Sr; brothers Howard and Mike Malcolm; sisters Lisa Shumaker, Nicki White, Melinda Borg and Patsi Solano.
He also has many nieces, nephews, aunts and cousins who love him dearly, and deckhands who knew him. He will be having an extended family reunion with his mother, Winifred Thorton; foster parents Marvel and Dutch Roth, brothers Larry and Steve Malcolm, sister Doodie Cake, and other assorted family and friends who died too young.
Anchor Point resident, Mr. Phillip Jainese, 72, died Saturday, March 7, 2015 at South Peninsula Hospital in Homer, Alaska. No services are planned at this time.
Jainese was born Jan. 15, 1943 to Leslie J. and Barbara Mary (Carry) Jainese in Beaumont, Texas.
He is survived by his sister, Emma Foux of Texas.
Arrangements were made by Homer Funeral Home & Cremation Services.
Viola A. Hall
Viola A. Hall, aged 85, died peacefully at home on March 22, 2015 with loved ones by her bedside, after suffering for several years with multiple medical problems.
Vi was born Oct. 27, 1929 in Montavilla, Ore. to Mac and Ann (Farier) Lear. She was a middle child with 13 brothers and sisters.
Viola graduated from the Montavilla Vestal School and then went on to nurse’s training in Gresham, Ore. She obtained her Licensed Practical Nursing degree in Portland.
Vi worked for the Providence Hospital system in the Neonatal Care Unit, as a nutritionist and then became a paramedic, making lifesaving ambulance runs. She retired in 1997 after her second 20-year career with the Hotel/Motel Workers Union in Anchorage.
During her life, Viola lived in Portland, Gresham and Sandy, Ore.; Troy and Libby, Mont. and Anchorage, Anchor Point and Kenai, Alaska.
Vi was an active member of the Anchor Point Senior Center, where she served as president in 2010. She was a member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary, served on the Anchor Point Community Emergency Response Team and was a member of the church of Christ. She enjoyed cooking, reading, playing cards and bingo and spending time with her friends.
Viola is survived by her sister, Helen of Portland, Ore. Graveside services were held at the Anchor Point Cemetery on March 28, 2015. To sign Viola’s online guestbook, please visit www.alaskanfuneral.com.
William T. Abbott
William (Bill) T. Abbott of Georgetown, Texas passed away March 30, 2015 with his family by his side. He was 75.
He was born Jan. 1, 1940, at Fort Sill (Lawton), Oklahoma to Mose and Mildred Abbott and was a devoted husband to Ly T. Nguyen, wife of 43 years, and dedicated father to three children.
Bill graduated from Lawton High School, earned his BS from University of Alaska Fairbanks and MBA from University of Alaska Anchorage.
Bill was a dedicated livestock showman and member of FFA and the 4-H Club during high school. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1959 and served three tours of duty in Vietnam. Most of his time was spent as an advisor to the South Vietnamese Airborne Brigade and a radio operator/recon team specialist operating under MACV ‘SOG’, Fifth Special Forces Group. He earned the Bronze Star with Valor, the Purple Heart and contributed to Fifth SF Group’s Presidential Unit Citation.
SSGT Abbott was honorably discharged from active duty in 1968.
Accompanied by his family, Bill went on to adventurous employment in the shipping and oil industries around the globe. He lived in Singapore, the Netherlands, Canada and Saudi Arabia, as well as Texas, California, New Jersey and Alaska. Some of his credentials include Merchant Marine and ship captains’ licenses. Abbott retired in 2004 from his post as Port Director/Harbor Master of Homer, Alaska.
Drawn to the water, Bill sought a life at sea on his own time, in addition to his maritime activities. He owned and operated various tugboats and fishing boats which served him well in his capacity as a professional and hobbyist. An avid fisherman since boyhood, Bill shared this passion with his family.
He is survived by his wife Ly and children: Benjamin Abbott, Katherine Abbott and Thomas Abbott; grandson Scout Hodge; mother Mildred Stevenson; and sisters Norma Ray and Judy Burns. He is predeceased by his sister Rosemary Widdig and father Mose Abbott.
Visitation will be held at the Harper-Talasek Funeral Home in Killeen, Texas from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, April 9. A patriot guard escort to the burial ceremony with honor guard will follow at 2 p.m. at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen.
Dorothy Ann Bush
Longtime Alaskan and Soldotna resident, Mrs. Dorothy Ann (Sheeley) Bush, 93, died Tuesday, March 17, 2015 at Central Peninsula Hospital in Soldotna.
A celebration of her life will be held at a later date in the summer of 2015.
Mrs. Bush was born Feb. 22, 1922 in Laramie, Wyo. Her birthday was rarely forgotten, but hard to believe, as she never looked even close her age.
She moved to Alaska in 1930, living in Fairbanks for five years. In 1935, she moved to Palmer and lived there until 1958. She then moved to Anchorage, where she stayed until 2007. Dorothy was a member of the Eastern Star Church since 1956.
Her father worked to establish the Matanuska Colony and later served as the manager. A school contest held to name the local dairy processing plant was won by Dorothy with her entry “Matanuska Maid.”
Prior to marrying Merle Anderson in 1941, she attended home-economics classes at the University of Alaska Fairbanks and worked at the Curry Hotel on the railroad. In January 1947 she learned to fly, becoming the first woman pilot in Palmer. After years running a dairy in Palmer, they took their three kids to Arizona where they owned a cattle ranch. They returned to Alaska in 1954.
With her second husband, Henry Jay Bush, she moved to Anchorage and had another child. She enjoyed working part time at Barb’s Florist, volunteering at the Providence Hospital gift shop and working at home as a seamstress. Fishing, clam-digging and smoking salmon on the Kenai Peninsula were favorite summer activities, but knitting, crocheting, tatting and making birch bark baskets were her passions.
As Anchorage grew from two-lane gravel roads to paved streets and eventually freeways, Dorothy spent more time “at the river.” Sighting of the first robins in spring was her signal to head to the Kenai. She moved fulltime to Sterling in 2007, where she was active with the Sterling Senior Center. Playing cards with friends and working jigsaw puzzles were regular activities. Happy ragtime and bluegrass music were guaranteed to get her feet tapping, so a celebration of life will be a Bluegrass Jam to be held after the robins return.
Dorothy was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Jay Bush; brothers, Jack (Mary Alice) and Joe (Joyce) Sheely, and first husband, Merle L. “Chris” Anderson.
She is survived by sons, James Anderson of Anchorage, Jay Cy Bush of Anchorage, and Philip (Holly) Anderson of Anchorage; daughters, Marie (Boyd) Walker of Homer; grandsons, Michael Anderson of Anchorage and Raey Johnson of Anchorage; granddaughter Kiley Anderson of Anchorage; extended family John, Tina, Gene Hall of Sterling and Jody, Joe, and Colton Perkowitz of Kalispell, Mont.; nephews, Ted, Ken, Robert, William and Ross Sheely.
Arrangements were made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel and Crematory. Please sign Dorothy’s online guestbook at AlaskanFuneral.com.
Jacqueline Metzler
Jacqueline Metzler went to be with the Lord on March 25, 2015. Her daughter, Jonnie Sue Banks, and staff of Elkhart Hospice House were with her.
Jackie Metzler was born in Mishawaka, Ind. on Dec. 20, 1937. She grew up running around her grandparents’ golfing range and — as a result — learned golf at a very young age. She earned many golf trophies before completing Mishawka High School.
Jackie met Jack Metzler at the golf range. The two soon fell in love and married on March 24, 1956. They lived for a while in northern Indiana, but then answered the dream of moving north to Alaska. This is where they lived a very adventurous life with their two daughters. Jackie worked with her husband building a hunting lodge and then on to many quaint and rustic log homes in the Alaska wilderness.
After living in the Alaska woods for 20 years, the family moved for a little while down to Colorado. They once again built a lovely log house overlooking the Collbran Valley. Jackie joined her husband in taking up tennis and raising a few head of cattle. She made many close friends there that she still heard from over the years.
The couple treasured their time in Colorado, but couldn’t deny the pull back to Alaska. This time, Jack and Jackie settled on the Kenai Peninsula in Anchor Point. This is where Jackie resided until 2006, when she went down to Indiana to take care of her ailing mother.
Jackie is survived by two daughters, Jolayne Soplanda of Anchor Point, and Jonnie Sue Banks of Elkhart, Ind.: six grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
A memorial celebration is planned to celebrate both Jack and Jackie Metzler on May 9 in Anchor Point The family requests that any donations be made to your local hospice organization.
William Edward Carlson
Mr. William Edward “Bill” Carlson was born in April 1940 to Eva Beal and Earnest Carlson of Anaconda, Mont. The family moved to Tanana in 1943 with the U.S. Army’s aircraft lend-lease program during World War II.
Bill and his older sister Claire enjoyed a frontier childhood on the banks of the Yukon River among fish traps, dog sleds and stern-wheeled river boats. When the family moved to Homer in 1948, Bill was held back in school for refusing to speak English, preferring instead to communicate in his adopted Dene dialect.
Bill Carlson attended first through 12th grades in Homer. He graduated in 1959, the year Alaska attained Statehood, with both a territorial and state diploma.
“Bad Billy,” as he has been occasionally known, had since assimilated into the American counter-culture of muscle cars, Lucky Strike cigarettes and black leather jackets. Rumors abound that he started Homer’s first rebel youth gang, which included an initiation featuring a do-it-yourself tattoo. He and his fellow motoring enthusiasts regularly drove to Anchorage to cruise on 4th Avenue in front of the city’s radio station located above the Bun Drive-In.
Aside from Marlon Brando, Elvis, and rock ‘n’ roll, one of the strongest influences on Bill’s young life was his brother-in-law, Alan Dietz. An Aleut and son of a Homer homesteader, Alan married Claire in 1952 and they had four children; Ken, Tony, David and Dakean, with whom Bill remained very close. From Alan, Bill learned to trap, hunt, fish and survive in the wilderness and on the water. His love of the outdoors and curiosity about nature informed much of the rest of his life.
In 1962, Bill was drafted into the U.S. Army and spent his tour in Germany with the Pershing Missile Crew where he learned about explosives and munitions. Bill held a blaster’s license for the rest of his life, and was often employed on materials sites, road and railroad construction, and on the pipeline as a blaster.
Along with being a munitions expert, Bill was a welder’s helper, logger, fisherman and equipment operator. He was a reader, a scholar, a lover of poetry and music, a friend, an uncle and a father.
In 1965, Bill married Karen Tennison and they had two children, Rama and Darry, who were later adopted by Karen’s second husband and Bill’s former schoolmate, Willy Flyum.
In 1973, Bill married Coyleen Eskelson and they had three children; Billeen, Stephanie and Ross. Bill spent the last 15 years of his life hunting, fishing, hiking and building cabins and bridges with his soulmate, Patsy Bushnell.
Bill spent the last two decades of his life as an active member of the American Legion, Sons of the VFW, and 40 and 8. He served most of that time as the chaplain of Legion Post 18, taking a special interest in providing scholarships to graduating Ninilchik youth, hospice work and tending to the spiritual needs (with his own special flair) of the post.
Bill goes to join his father, mother, brother Tony Carlson, his sister, and his beloved brother-in-law Alan, in the happy hunting grounds in the sky where they are surely waiting for him along with every “almost legal” moose he ever harvested.
He is survived by nephews, nieces, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His wit, wisdom, insight, compassion, political acuity and amazing squaw candy will be missed by those who knew him.
Military services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 2, at the Ninilchik cemetery. There will be a potluck celebration of life to follow at the American Legion Post 18 at 1 p.m.
Arrangements were made by Homer Funeral Home and Cremation services.
David Leigh Jolly
A special memorial service, 7 p.m. May 6 at the Anchor River Inn, 34358 Old Sterling Highway, Anchor Point.
Come share your memories.
David was born in Hastings, Neb. on Nov. 17, 1942 and died May 1, 2015. He grew up in Prosser, Neb. and went to school in Juniata, Neb. He owned Jolly’s Cycle Center in Hastings until 1973. They moved to Alaska in 1976 where Dave fished commercially and was in construction. He is already missed. He is well remembered at get togethers. He loved to talk politics. He was preceeded in death by his parents, Edward and Sophia Jolly and a sister, Jeanynne. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Linda Hyde Jolly, son Craig of Spanaway, Wash. Daughter Cheryl Jolly of Anchor Point, grandchildren and step-grandchildren Megan Jolly, Forest Smith, Jessica Llata of Spanaway, Wash. and Fort Collins, Colo. Katie Jolly of Wasilla, David Jolly and Garrett Cooper of Anchor Point. Great-grandchildren Audrey and Piper Llata of Fort Collins, Colo. Grandson-in-law, Andrew Llata of Fort Collins, Colo. His dogs “Snoopie,” and “Rascal,” who was with him the whole time he was in the hospital. Brother and sister-in-law Edward and Betty Jolly of Kamiah, Idaho. And many other family members and friends. David had wonderful end-of-life care. There are so many people to thank. You are all being thought of.
Robert Purpura
May 18, 1946-April 27, 2015
Longtime Kachemak Bay resident Robert Purpura succumbed to the sea while traveling alone in his skiff from Jakolof Bay to his home in Seldovia. When it was discovered he was overdue many of his friends rushed to search the area. His boat was found adrift with the outboard idling off of McDonald Spit and his body was found floating some distance away.
Robert was born in New York city and raised in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. He worked in the food service industry in many places on the eastern seaboard. In the early 1970s he left his position as a maitre d and sommelier at the Country Club in New York and hitchhiked to Alaska. He eventually found his way to Homer and was chef at Land’s End for a time. He was an avid skier and adventurer.
Having a passion for the ocean and small wooden boats, Robert found his way to the south side of the bay and began to set-net salmon in Kasitsna Bay in 1978. A devastating disabling accident happened to him that year. But he picked himself up, met and married his wife in 1980 and continued in the fishery for many years. He and his family lived afloat in Little Tutka until moving to Seldovia 15 years ago. He also made a business of direct marketing salmon for a group of fellow southern district set-netters.
Robert had a remarkable gift for gourmet cooking. He loved to entertain and watch people enjoy his food. For a lot of years he was galley cook extraordinaire on many fishing boats, tugs, rig tenders etc. Robert had taken his cooking to a whole new level recently and was extremely proud of this. He fed his family and friends well.
He was a City of Seldovia council member for a few years and served on various boards and projects. He also served on the Seldovia Fish & Game Advisory Board. Robert’s knowledge, expertise and advice was sought by many. He had a no-nonsense perspective and could get to the gist of any issue.
Robert’s personality was magnetic and he had an amazing sense of humor. He was intelligent, boisterous, sensitive, determined, principled, good-natured, warm hearted, loving and so, so much more. He had a strong work ethic and incredible fortitude. In his life he touched so many people and his passing leaves a huge hole in all our hearts. He was so cherished.
He is proceeded in death by his parents Joseph Purpura and Pauline Caballero and brother in law Marshall Rosi. He is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Renée Purpura, beautiful daughters Rochelle Hasley and Rosalia Purpura both of whom he was so proud and honored by, his son Jabez LeBret who he hadn’t seen for several years, loving sister and brother in law Rosalia and Cosmo Nardella of Burlington, Mass., brothers Joseph Purpura of Hawaii and Kenneth Purpura of Oregon, and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Robert’s life will take place on Sunday, May 17, 2015 at the Linwood in Seldovia. The time will be announced at a later date.
Madeline Sider
Homer resident, Ms. Madeline Sider, 100, died Wednesday, May 13, 2015 at South Peninsula Hospital Long Term Care in Homer.
A funeral mass was held Tuesday, May 19, 2015 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Homer. Father Bob O.M.I. officiated. A reception followed downstairs at the church.
Ms. Sider was born March 24, 1915 to Mary and John Sider in Brooklyn, N.Y. She was one of five girls who lived through the great depression and WWII. She cared for many people who were ill or in need of comfort.
She is survived by her nieces Gloria (Doug) Stuart of Homer and Karen (Ed) Zajchowski; nephew, Howard (Ann) Hull of Long Island, N.Y. and too many more nieces and nephews to mention.
Arrangements were made by Homer Funeral Home and Cremation Services. Please visit Madeline’s online guestbook at AlaskanFuneral.com.
Iva Frances Nelson, 83, of Anchor Point passed away Sunday, May 3, 2015 at her home.
Fran was born Saturday, Sept. 12, 1931 in Goshen, Ill. to Kenneth and Iris (Delcamp) Green.
She moved to Alaska in September of 1990, first settling in Eagle River, and then moving to Anchor Point in 1997, where she was a member of Anchor Point Baptist Church, past board member of Anchor Point Senior Center and a member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. She was also past president of the American Legion Ladies Auxiliary in Michigan.
Fran loved the outdoors, and enjoyed camping, fishing, gardening and horseback riding. She was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Iris, and her sister, Audrey Hummel.
Fran is survived by her husband, Gene Nelson; son, Steven and wife, Nancy Nelson of Pleasant Prairie, Wisc.; daughter, Mary and husband, Alfred Flowers of Centerville, Mich.; grandchildren, Keith and wife, Tennilla Flowers, Venus Marie Flowers and Kim Hutton all of Sturgis, Mich., Christina Nelson of Kenosha, Wisc., Paul Nelson and Tina Tabor of Trevor Wisc.; and great grandchildren, Steven Jackson of Kenosha, Wisc. and Keaton and Aiden Flowers of Sturgis, Mich.
A memorial service will be held at Anchor Point Baptist Church with Pastor Jim Hanins officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given in Iva’s name to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital (PO Box 50 Memphis, Tenn. 38101-9928) or St. Labre Indian School (1000 Tongue River Rd. Ashland, Mont. 59004-1001)
Walter Johnson
Walter Johnson, respected Dena’ina elder from the Iliamna Lake region, died peacefully on May 23, he was 92.
Walter was born in Kaskanek, Alaska to Anna Rickteroff and Alf Johnson on June 14, 1922, the youngest of 7 children. He lived most of his early years with his mother in Lonesome Bay, living a subsistence lifestyle where Walter learned the skills to become a successful fisher- man, trapper and carpenter. Walter traveled extensively throughout the region, by walking, rowing and sailing long distances. He never attended a day of school, but by using the resourcefulness that characterized him, he taught himself enough read- ing and math to enable him to navi- gate life successfully.
One of Walter’s favorite activities as a teenager was skiing. He ordered skis from Sears and with his cousin, Buck Delkettie, skied many of the hills and mountains around Lonesome Bay.
Walter began going to Bristol Bay at age 14. His older brothers taught him how to fish in double-ender sailboats. Walter became one of the Bay’s most recognized fishermen in his boat, the Hornet. His 60 years fishing were his primary source of income, allowing him the freedom to live in various places during his adult life, including Pedro Bay, Tommy Point, Anchorage and California. In the latter part of his life, Walter and his wife Annie, divided their time between Homer in the winter and Pedro Bay in the summer.
Walter married Annie Mycee May 14, 1947. Together, they had three children: Johnny, Howie and Ruthie and also raised Annie’s two other children Trygve (Olson) and Ethel (Adcox).
Walter’s vast knowledge of the Iliamna Lake region, its people and the Dena’ina language and customs led him to be the focus of two books, Sukdu Nel Nuhtghelnek I’ll Tell You a Story by James Kari and Walter’s Story by Barbara Jacko Atwater.
Walter was a humble, gentle and kind man who was a surrogate uncle to all who knew him. He learned the guitar at a young age, his wonderful playing was always the musical highlight of any worship service he attended.
Walter’s passing is a great loss to the Iliamna Lake region and to Alaska. All who knew and respected him as not only a bearer of knowledge about the past but as a true gentleman will miss him.
He is preceded in death by his siblings: Gerrasim Sours, Mike Jensen, Nicolai Jensen, Alma (Jensen) Jacko, Virginia Jensen, Gus Jensen. His son, Howie Johnson; his wife Annie; and grandson, Tory Olson. Walter leaves behind his son-in-law, Trygve Olsen; daughter-in-law, Ethel Adcox; his son Johnny Johnson; his daughter Ruthie Andree; grandchildren Linda Olson, Gina Arafiles, Travis Olson, John Allen Adcox, Debbie Abujbara, AnaMarie Lamont, Shannon Nanalook, Jessie Vasquez, Howie Andree, Deannie Andree and many great grandchildren.
We are happy and thankful to say Walter has gone to be with his LORD and Savior Jesus Christ.Services will be held Saturday, May 30, 2015 with an open casket viewing at 2:30 pm and funeral at 3:00 pm at Glacierview Baptist Church, 960 E End Rd, Homer.
Family sharing and a potluck will follow.
CHRIS LOPEZ
CHRIS LOPEZ passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 24, at 8:50 a.m., after a short, intense battle with cancer. His long-time partner, Kate Rich, and sons, Dylan and Simon were in attendance.
Chris was a devoted father and teacher who always had time to talk.
He loved to ride around Homer in his truck, stopping to chat with friends or holding court at the local coffee shop.
He had a long-time love affair with wooden boats, and spent many hours in the Homer boat yard, working on
his 42-foot wooden schooner, Rogue.
He was active in the cleanup of the Valdez oil spill in 1989 and he believed in caring for the planet. During his life- time, he travelled to Mexico, New Zealand, Fiji, Thailand, Cambodia, Wales, Spain, Holland, and other places he forgot even to tell us about. He was looking forward to walking El Camino de Santiago someday with his family.
Many of his friends and family members called him “Mr. Safety.” A natural born teacher, he travelled all over Alaska teaching courses in marine safety, cold water survival and navigation, often through AMSEA. He also built a submersible chair and started an independent nonprofit providing helicopter egress training.
Chris spent his childhood on Long Island in New York and lived in Delray Beach, Florida prior to moving to Alaska in 1986 and settling in Homer. He was known as a “jack of all trades” and will be remem- bered for some of his favorite sayings: “Luck favors the prepared,” “Indecision is the key to flexibility,” “Breathe deep and seek peace,” “Love your guts.”
He will be sadly missed by his immediate family Kate Rich & Simon Lopez of Homer, Dylan Lopez of Sante Fe, New Mexico, and many extended family and friends.
A bonfire in celebration of Chris’s life will be held Saturday, May 30 at Bishop’s Beach, beginning at 8 p.m., with a short program and trib- utes to begin at 9 p.m. Friends and family may visit anytime this week at the home of Vickie Rich, 355 Whispering Meadows Ave., Homer, where a table displaying photos of Chris is available.
Mrs. Grace V. Pinhak
Homer resident, Mrs. Grace V. Pinhak, 94, died Wednesday, May 27, 2015 at her home in Homer.
No services will be held per her wishes. Mrs. Pinhak was born Oct. 13, 1920 in Prospect Park, Pennsylvania. She graduated from high school in Pennsylvania, and moved to Homer in 2002.
She is survived by her daughter, Judith, (W.B.) Hughes; son, Robert W. Pinhak; nephews, Bruce and Robert Rankin and their children; cousins, WM Conner and family.
Arrangements made by Homer Funeral Home and Crematory.
Kathy S. Corp, our loving mother, grandmother, sister and friend, age 68, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2015. Kathy was born in California to Jack and Ellen Tillman on June 20, 1946. She grew up in Homer, and graduated valedictorian from Homer High School in 1964. She worked at different newspapers throughout her early career. She then took her knowledge of presentation and put it to work here in Homer, while she owned and operated Lazer Print in Homer.
Her daughters, Darla Grediagin (Robert) of Anchorage and Dixie Naron of Homer, her sister Ruth Babcock, brother August Tillman, grandsons Tim and Mike Grediagin, J.J. and Eddie Martinez, Mary Elkins, Jeremy Grediagin, Kathryn Buckley, and Daniel Grediagin, niece Allie (Jessy) Lentz of Homer survive Kathy. She is preceded in death by her husband Clyde Corp, and her sons, Darrell and Daniel Naron.
The family would like to thank the friends of Kathy who have shared stories of how she impacted your lives. Ruth may have said it best, “Kathy was the epitome of Alaska strength and hospitality. She leaves a legacy that will sustain us in times of trouble. and we know she will be celebrating our successes and laughing at our bad jokes from her place in Heaven. A service was held at the Homer United Methodist Church on May 15.
Tommie Carlin Schauer
April 21, 1957 – Dec. 18, 2014
Thomas Richard Schauer was born April 21, 1957, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to parents Richard F. Schauer and Virginia L. Schauer (Vadnais). His biological father passed away when he was just a year old. His mother remarried, and the new larger family grew up on the grounds of Roselawn Cemetery in Roseville, Minnesota where Archie, (stepfather) was the superintendent.
Tommie graduated from Alexander Ramsey High School in 1975, and then attended St. Thomas College. After college, he traveled to Europe to play soccer and later returned to Minnesota, married and started his family. Tommie and Erin had two children; a daughter, Kyle, and a son, Neil.
Tommie was passionate about most things in life — especially his own children. He was known to his family as “Mr. Mom,” due to his ability to always be there to ensure they were cared for and “having fun!” Tommie loved spending time with Kyle and Neil, often coaching and leading activities they were involved in, from girl scouts to hockey teams. He was always watching out for all of the youth he worked with as a coach, substitute teacher, advocate for at-risk youth and provider for community mental health programs.
Tommie was a skilled motivator and loved all of the youth he worked with. He not only connected with young people, but also with their parents and families, going out of his way to become a friend and advocate. His devotion and generosity was profound; he was once witnessed giving someone the “shirt off his back.” Tommie always stayed “connected” with the young people he knew, and often drove hundreds of miles to watch them play soccer or hockey long after he had been their coach.
Tommie spent most of his adult life in Minnesota and Wisconsin, but also spent six years living with his sister, Linda, and her family in Homer. There, he coached soccer, managed the Homer Ice Rink and worked in the schools.
Tommie passed away peacefully on Dec. 18, 2014 after a brief battle with cancer. He had both of his children and several family members with him at the time of passing. He was preceded in death by his father, Richard F. Schauer; mother, Virginia L. Patrick; stepfather, Archie Patrick; brother, Craig Patrick; grandparents and uncles.
He is survived by his children, Kyle CarlinSchauer and Neil CarlinSchauer; sisters, Nancy Gurney (Dave); Linda Rourke (Paul); Julie Erickson (Jim); Debbie Patrick; brothers Terry Patrick (Karen); Michael Patrick; and many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Tommie’s life is planned during the summer of 2015 in Minnesota, as well as a “Tribute to Tommie” soccer event on June 14 in Homer.
Debra Eayrs, beloved wife, mother and friend, was called to her heavenly home on June 21, 2015. Memorial services will be held Saturday, June 27 at 2 p.m. at Christian Community Church on Bartlett Street in Homer.
Henry King Middleton Jr.
Long-time Alaska pioneer Henry King Middleton Jr. passed away in his sleep June 16, 2015 at South Peninsula Hospital. He was 81.
Henry was born on his grandfather’s farm near Sharptown, New Jersey on Feb. 18, 1934 to Henry King Middleton, Sr. and Lulu Ware Middleton.
During his early years, Henry lived in New Jersey and Washington state. In 1948, Henry’s parents decided it was time for adventure and moved their five children north to Alaska. In August of that year, they arrived at the end of Homer Spit aboard a landing craft, as there was no road to Homer at the time.
Henry played a huge role in the family’s challenge to make a homestead on Fritz Creek Ridge. He and his father and two brothers built a log cabin in the dead of winter and cleared land with handsaws and axes. When he turned 21, he successfully won a homestead of his own on Old East End Road.
Henry was drafted into the army in the mid-50s, and served honorably in Germany. The bulk of his working years he served with the Alaska Department of Highways survey team, laying out roads all over the state. Plagued with ill health, he took early retirement in the late 80s.
Henry was known for his keen intellect, eccentric sense of humor, loyalty to family and many friends. He had a soft heart for dogs and animals of all sorts, a love of nature and innate ability to predict weather patterns. He had a very good memory and liked to debate and play devil’s advocate, especially with his family. Henry always had a unique perspective and liked to debate. His hobbies included cards, chess, scrabble, joke-telling, writing poetry, women and dancing, weather-watching and singing karaoke at local pubs. He had a fondness for sweet desserts, a trait he shared with his mother Lu.
Henry will be missed and remembered by those who knew and loved him as one-of-a-kind. There was no one else like him. His friends, from all walks of life, are an amazingly diverse group. They will miss him greatly.
Henry was preceded in death by both parents, brother–in-law Lynn R. Graham and nephew Derin Middleton.
His survivors include brothers Herb Middleton (Sharon), Tim Middleton (Joyce), Jeff Middleton (Janet); sisters, Jane Middleton, Pam Hooker (Steve), and Cindy Graham, as well as many nieces and nephews.
Memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Friday, June 26 at Long Term Care in South Peninsula Hospital. The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, donations may be made to American Diabetes Association.
James Peterson
James Peterson is at peace as of Oct. 11, 2014. Jim was born Feb. 8, 1943. After high school, he joined the Air Force, and while in service in 1962, he married Lorraine Mary LeBrecque. They had four children and were married for 30 years. After serving four years in the Air Force as an Airman First Class, Jim continued on to the University of Idaho, where he graduated with a bachelor of science degree in zoology (cum laude).
Jim went to medical school and graduated from Oregon Health Science University. As a captain in the U.S. Army, he completed an anesthesia internship at Fort Sam Houston Army Hospital, San Antonio, Texas. He then returned to Oregon Health Science University to complete his anesthesia residency.
Jim practiced anesthesia with a spotless record, saving lives and mentoring others in the medical arena for more than 40 years. Jim was an avid outdoorsman; he followed his passion for fishing, hunting and beach-combing. He was a pilot, fishing captain and hunting guide. Friends and family claimed he “lived for Octobers,” when pheasant season opened.
In 1998 Jim married Elizabeth Chamberlain. They were married 16 years and were residents of Homer. They spent time together sport fishing in the Florida Keys and hunting in North Dakota with their two dogs, Holly and Hanna.
Jim is survived by his brother Dr. William Loftin Peterson, O.D.; four children: Laura, Sharon, Cathy and James; and eight grandchildren: Loftin, Zoe, Foster Langsdorf, Quinn, Blake, Gatlin Butler, Violet and Lilly Peterson.
We will miss you Dad, Papa Ride, Grandpa.
Merle Walter Johnson, MD, pioneer Alaska physician known to many as the father of the Community Health Aide Program, died Saturday, June 27, 2015, surrounded by family at his son’s home in Anchorage. He was 92.
Gatherings to remember Walter will be held during the third week of July in Homer and Anchorage, and will be announced. Full obituary to follow.
Zachery J. Hinsberger
Homer resident, Zachery J. Hinsberger, 24, died Saturday, June 20, 2015 in Homer, Alaska. Memorial services will be announced at a later date.
Zach was born Jan. 3, 1991 in Homer, and attended elementary school in Isanti, Minn. and Anchor Point. He completed high school at Homer Flex. Zach lived in Isanti from 1993 to 2003, and then moved back to Anchor Point where he lived the rest of his years.
Zach worked for Alyeska Tire in Homer from 2009 to the present. He helped name Blue Bird Park in Isanti with his fifth-grade class. Zach loved metal crafting, was a Boy Scout, high school wrestler, and an outdoors man. He enjoyed hunting, camping, four-wheeling — and he loved to fish. He was a great father, smart, hard worker, old soul and a kid at heart. He was kind to everyone. Zach was a very special person who was loved and will be missed by all.
He was preceded in death by his uncle, Mike Hinsberger.
Zach is survived by his wife, Kaylene Miller of Homer; daughter, Willow Hinsberger of Homer; son, Zephrin Hinsberger of Homer; mother, Debbie Hinsberger of Isanti, Minn; brother, Eric Hinsberger of Anchor Point, sisters, April Hinsberger of Seattle, Wash, Macc Langley of Isanti, and Alisa Hinsberger of Soldona; father in-law, Mike Peltier of Anchor Point; mother in-law, Melinda Peltier of Anchor Point; sister in-law, Kristen Peltier of Kake; and brother-in-law, Michael Peltier of Anchor Point.
Memorial donations may be made to Kaylene Miller at P.O. Box 265 – Anchor Point, Alaska 99556.
Arrangements were made by Peninsula Memorial Chapel and Crematory. Please visit Zach’s online guestbook at AlaskanFuneral.com.
Jan. 5, 1951-June 21, 2015
Loving wife. Best friend. Mother and Grandmother.
On Father’s Day, June 21, 2015, Debra “Debbie” Beth Eayrs was called home to her heavenly father. Debbie suffered from a lung disease for many years, the last 10 of which had become increasingly difficult, with her final three days spent at South Peninsula Hospital.
Born Jan. 5, 1951 in Whitefish, Mont. to Montie and Betty Annear, Debbie was the youngest of three siblings. As a child, she enjoyed living on the family farm close to Whitefish, and making friends with all the animals. After moving to a farm in Marion, Mont., she attended high school in Kalispell, Mont.
In 1969, Debbie and her former husband, Gary Young, had a baby girl they named Kali. That baby grew up, got married and had four sons, all of whom brought Debbie great joy.
In 1979, Debbie moved to Alaska from Montana. While living in Anchorage, she volunteered to visit patients at Alaska Psychiatric Institute. Taking along her guitar, she would sing and play music for them, often taking people out on day passes.
In the spring of 1981, Debbie was waiting at a bus stop in Anchorage and was surprised to see Steve Eayrs drive past. They had met before in Montana, and he had recently moved to Alaska to look for work. Neither of them knew the other was in the state.
Steve’s sister, Cheryl, and her two sons, Tyson and Chad, had recently moved in with Steve, and it did not take long before Debbie became the babysitter of the two boys. This arrangement soon found Steve and Debbie falling in love. They married Aug. 26, 1982.
While living in Anchorage, Debbie would often ask Steve to stop and offer help if they drove past a needy person on the street.
In 1983, the couple decided to move to Homer. Steve worked in construction-related trades, while Debbie worked for Valdez Air. She continued to work for Valdez Air in Homer until they closed.
In 1986, the couple opened Eayrs Plumbing and Heating, where Debbie worked — and continued to work from home, until she was no longer able. She also spent many hours in the Salvation Army store sorting clothes, along with other various jobs.
Debbie loved the Lord and knew how to love others well.
From home-cooked meals followed by music or games, to thoughtful words and flowers at just the right time, Debbie showed people that they mattered. Her enthusiasm and encouragement for others was endless. She laughed easily, and her sparkling blue eyes would light up with joy at the accomplishments of others.
“Beautiful inside and out,” is how friends describe her. “A person whose life reflected the love of Jesus.”
Although the last 10 years of Debbie’s life were quite challenging, she continued to show her strong, vibrant, active, fruitful soul to those who drew close to her.
“She is living proof that we are souls that have a body, and not bodies that happen to have a soul, by the fact that the weaker her body became, the stronger her spirit seemed to shine,” her husband wrote. “Her strength was due to her personal relationship with a living God, who saved her through the shed blood of His son, Jesus Christ. She is now free of pain, and I believe present with the Lord of Creation. I picture her dancing and singing with a voice that exceeds her dreams.”
Debbie was a member of East Gate Fellowship, where she and Steve have attended church since moving to Homer.
Her one-of-a-kind, sweet and graceful spirit leaves behind a legacy of warmth, love and joy. Her unwavering friendship and wonderful faith will not be forgotten, and she will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
Debbie is survived by her husband, Steven Eayrs of Homer; daughter, Kali (Stephen) Macalino of Eagle River; grandsons, Nathan, Nicolas, Joshua and Zachary and brother, Harry Annear of Livingston, Mont., along with many nieces, nephews, family and friends whom she dearly loved.
She was preceded in death by her parents and sister, Sharon Kempe.
A memorial service was held June 27 at Christian Community Church in Homer.
Donations in memory of Debbie can be made to Carry the Cure, 1040 Beylund Loop, Palmer, AK 99645.
Gordon M. Layel
Longtime Alaskan and Homer resident Gordon M. Layel, 67, passed away at home from heart failure on June 2, 2015.
Memorial services will be held 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 15, at the V.F.W. No. 10221 in Anchor Point.
Gordon was born Jan. 19, 1948 in Charlotte, N.C. He attended college and also served in the U.S. Army from 1965-68. He moved to Alaska in 1980 and resided in Eagle River, Anchorage, Anchor Point and Homer.
Gordon worked in an auto body shop, fished, painted houses and was a self-employed ivory and wood carver. He also worked for Arc of Anchorage, working with mentally challenged children and adults. He became disabled in 2000 and retired from working.
His daughter said, “Being able to have my dad in my life was the best thing ever.”
His life partner said, “He was my brother, soul mate, the light and love of my life. He had a heart of gold and was hilarious.”
Gordon was preceded in death by his parents, brother and sister.
He is survived by his daughter, Amanda Sue Pepion; grandchildren, Blu Skye Karby and Lee Loo Stephenson, all of Paragould, Ark.; and life partner of 18 years, B. Elizabeth “Lizzie” Greischel of Anchor Point.
Condolences and cards may be sent to Beverly Greischel, P.O. Box 1389, Anchor Point, AK 99556.
Arrangements were by Peninsula Memorial Chapel.
