Heritage Wasilla Funeral Home

03/31/2026

Rodney's favorite hobbies

Rod loved fishing but not combat fishing as we call it in Alaska, during the summer salmon runs. Just relaxing fly fishing in the local streams and rivers and occasionally local lakes. He was an avid motorcycle fan and dreamed of the day he would have another Harley Davidson. He loved strumming his guitar, collecting several through the years but always dreaming of having a Martin. He also loved scuba diving and was active with the local dive rescue team before his illness. He had quite a collection of ham radios and was active with the local organization in the past. In his spare time, you would find him tying knots, making key chains and survival bracelets or collecting rocks.

Rodney's favorite foods

He loved all foods. I don't think there was anything he didn't like: chorizo, shrimp, clam chowder, rare steak (if it mooed, even better) crawdads and more.

Favorite bands and musical artists

Rod like music of all kinds, rock, classical, blues, soul and more

Interesting facts about Rodney

Although raised in the south, he loved living in Alaska.

Rodney loved nothing more than

He loved having a hot cup of coffee while eating some "fat boy pills" (donuts, nutty butter peanut bars, twinkies, etc. and watching TV if there wasn't something else to do.

Favorite place in the world

He loved Hatcher Pass in Palmer Alaska and our visits to Cabo San Lucas where he could go diving and fish for marlin and tuna.

Favorite TV shows

Science Fiction, Star Trek, Deep Space Nine, Star Wars, and any martial arts movies.

Favorite sports

Rod loved watching Soccer European Football

Rodney's proudest accomplishments

Rod was very proud of returning to school and getting his EMT1, EMT2 and EMT3. He wanted to continue his education and become a Paramedic. Unfortunately, his illness prevented him from doing so.

Rodney Reese, age 70 passed away March 6, 2026, at his home in Big Lake Alaska. He leaves behind his wife of 36 years, Vickie Blankenship Reese, his son, Jeramie (Bear) Walker, stepson Jeremy Eichenberger, a grandson Brandon Bailey McGill, step grandson Kaydin Broady Eichenberger and a son-in-law, Sean McGill.

He was proceeded in death by his father Howard Lamar Reese, mother Connie June Crumly, stepmother Carol Reese, his brother Donald Reese and his daughter Renee Walker McGill (Sean).

His death was not a surprise. His addiction destroyed his heart and kidneys, his relationships, excluding those in active addiction, his marriage and his family long before his actual passing and so, in lieu of flowers his wife requests any donations go to True North Recovery or Set Free Alaska addiction treatment facilities in Wasilla, Alaska in Rod's name in hopes that someone else can get the help they need before it is too late.

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03/30/2026

Longtime Wasilla, Alaska, resident John Paul LaVarnway, 79, passed away at home surrounded by family on January 12, 2026.

John was born January 1, 1947, in Plattsburgh, New York, the youngest of five children. He graduated from Syracuse University in 1971, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering and a minor in Environmental Science and Forestry. Prior to graduation, he accepted a position with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage, Alaska. Driving his red 1971 Mustang, he traveled cross-country from Dannemora, New York, to begin his career. He later pursued graduate study at the University of California, Berkeley, emphasizing earthquake and geotechnical engineering.

John married Mary on August 20, 1977, and celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary in 2025. In 1982, he joined USDA Rural Development in Palmer, and in 1983, they built their home in Wasilla. After 33 years improving Alaska’s infrastructure - including medical facilities, roads, airports, housing, and water waste-water systems - John retired with gratitude for the work he loved.

John and Mary enjoyed traveling throughout the United States, with John visiting all 50 states. He outfitted their 37-foot Winnebago with ham radio equipment, connecting with operators across the country. His call sign was KL7E. The highlight of his radio experience was when his SteppIR antenna allowed him to converse with a scientist in Antarctica also with a SteppIR antenna.

John flew their Cessna180, especially through the breathtaking scenic valley sunsets with his IFR rating, and with wheel on skis landed at Denali basecamp. After attending the 2005 Christian Men's retreat, John revealed to Mary how he was inspired to return the 180 to God. They agreed to dedicate it to mission medevac service in South America. It was significantly modified for jungle flying.

A devoted member of Palmer Seventh-day Adventist Church, John served in church, school, and community ministries. He cherished daily worship with Mary and loved studying Scripture. Known as a “teddy bear" to some, he was loving, patient, forgiving, generous, quick to help others, quietly paid for strangers' meals, and assisted those in need. He believed everything belonged to God.

Even as Parkinson’s disease progressed, John remained faithful and determined. He sought not physical healing, but spiritual clarity to live daily, fully for God.

He is survived by his wife Mary LaVarnway; children Amy, Joe, and Alyson LaVarnway; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Gilbert and Bertha LaVarnway, and siblings Bob LaVarnway, Barbara Mero, Bill LaVarnway, and Marilyn Beck.

Joe will scatter his ashes on top of Lazy Mountain within view Palmer Airport. A Celebration of Life will be held February 22, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Palmer Seventh-day Adventist Church, 2238 S. Inner Springer Loop, Palmer. Reception to follow.

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03/29/2026

Today, we honor the courage and sacrifice of those who served during the Vietnam War. National Vietnam War Veterans Day is a time to reflect and express our lasting gratitude.

03/27/2026

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of James "Jim" Edward Rush, age 58, who left this world on January 17, 2026, in Houston, Alaska. Jim was born on September 24, 1967, in Anchorage, AK as James Edward Corning. He lived a life filled with hard work, dedication, and love for his family.

During his high school years, Jim lived at his granddad’s homestead in the Butte on Knik River Road with his granddad. Those years shaped him in lasting ways, and he thought the world of his granddad, speaking of him with deep respect and love.

Jim was proud of his family. He was a devoted father to his son Jason and his daughter Katrina who were his greatest accomplishments. He was also a loving grandfather to his grandsons, Isaac and Brandon, who brought him immense joy and pride. He shared a loving partnership with Cynthia (Cindi), whose companionship and care meant more to him than words could say.

He loved snow machining through Alaska’s wide-open beauty, fishing in its peaceful stillness, and spending a quiet day in the creek gold panning. A lifelong fan of rock music, Jim especially loved Eddie Van Halen, whose electrifying sound matched Jim’s energy and passion for living life his own way. At home, he was rarely without his beloved boxer Kiera, who matched his loyalty, warmth, energy, and big-hearted presence.

Jim was known for his work ethic and his kindness. He worked for many construction companies throughout Alaska over the years and took great pride in his work. He always strove to do his best and was respected for his dedication and skill. Those who knew Jim will remember his steady nature, his willingness to help, and the way he touched so many lives with his kind words. His memory will be carried forward by the many people who loved him.

Jim is survived by his girlfriend and partner Cynthia Werda-King; children Jason Edward Rush and Katrina Lynn Rush; grandchildren Isaac Edward Rush and Brandon Alexander Lapiers; and extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Terry Corning and Katherine Regina Snitker (Rush).

Rest in peace, Jim. Your legacy will live on.

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03/26/2026

A lifelong Alaskan known for his resilience, humor, and deep connection to his community, passed away after a life filled with work, adventure, and service. He was born on July 12, 1940, in Sutton, Alaska, behind the Alpine, in a house belonging to Mary Shaginoff, when Alaska was still a Territory. Don carried the spirit of the land with him his whole life.

Don lived at the Lazy Mountain Children’s Home in Palmer, Alaska, starting in 1948. During those years, he developed the independence and determination that would guide him throughout his life. He graduated from Palmer High School in 1960, where he proudly played basketball and developed lifelong friendships. He attended the Haskell Indian Industrial Training School in Lawrence, Kansas, in 1960-1961, earning a welding certificate. Don served in the U.S. Army from 1963 to 1969. At Fort Benning, Georgia, he earned a Marksmanship Expert rating. During the service, he was a military fabricator. He also worked for the American Can Company in San Francisco for two years before returning to Alaska.

Don worked 8 years for Marathon Oil Company in Kenai as a production operator. He joined BP-Sohio as a field production operator at Prudhoe Bay from 1977 until 2002. He devoted 25 years to the job before retiring; he also received his certification on the slope as an EMT-3. Don loved to travel and to have a good time, enjoying life during his R & R.

In the 1980s, Don earned his pilot’s license and flew a small plane just because he enjoyed flying. He flew for many hours in his personal plane across Alaska. Later, he worked for Chickaloon Village Traditional Council, driving community members to medical appointments for several years. He was honored as the Council’s Elder of the Year in 2018, reflecting the respect and appreciation his community holds for him.

Don and his brothers spent countless days hiking Lazy Mountain and Matanuska Peak. Like his father, Don was an avid hunter who provided for others in his community. He said he remembered walking 100 miles in 10 days.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John Shaginoff and Mary Nickolai, and his brothers and sister-in-law, Paul Goodlataw, Burt Shaginoff, Sandy Shaginoff, and James Shaginoff. Don is lovingly remembered by his brother, Lloyd Shaginoff; his nephew and nieces, Timothy Shaginoff, Sondra Shaginoff-Stuart, and Kari Shaginoff; and many cousins, relatives, great nieces and nephews, who carry his memory in their hearts.

Don’s gentle stories, steady friendship, and kindness will be dearly missed. May his memory be a comfort to those who loved him and an inspiration to cherish the simple, beautiful moments of life.

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03/25/2026

Jude Paul LeGaux, 18, passed away January 8, 2026, surrounded by close friends. A celebration of life was held on January 17, 2026.

Jude was born on December 29, 2007, to Derrick LeGaux and Sheral Burkett. He is survived by his mom Sheral Burkett, older brother Tristan Burkett, older sister Shalena LeGaux, sister-in-law Tiffany Burkett, grandpa David Burkett, grandma Elaine Haynes, and numerous uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces, and cousins. He is preceded in death by his dad Derrick LeGaux, his grandma Winnifred Burkett, and his grandpa Charles LeGaux.

Born and raised in the Mat-Su Valley, Jude was a cherished son, brother, grandson, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend who brought so much laughter and joy into our lives. He was an amazing uncle to his nephews and nieces. Jude lit up every room with his smile and was always quick to crack a joke. He enjoyed playing games, especially car games, often showing off his custom collection to us. This love for cars was expressed through his extensive lego collection that he loved to work on. He was also very enthusiastic about his music and collection of shoes. Jude was always a hard worker and loved everything outdoors. He loved to hunt and fish with family and friends any chance he got. Much like his own dad and mom, he was also very passionate about food and knew how to throw down in the kitchen. He particularly enjoyed cooking and eating Cajun dishes, like gumbo and crawfish, and Athabascan food containing moose and salmon. We are extremely proud that one of Jude’s greatest and most memorable achievements was graduating early from Burchell High School in May 2025 together with his sister Shalena.

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Forever in our hearts, Jude was dearly loved and will be missed.

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03/24/2026

Jakob Caesar Whittaker (Jake), 59, died unexpectedly on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, while tending to his tomato starts in his new Wasilla home. Jake spent his early years in Ketchikan before moving to Anchorage. He graduated from the King Career Center, worked for B&B Tools for many years, then managed a series of Whittaker Management apartments with his mother. More recently, he enjoyed buying and selling real estate, playing poker, fishing, trying new gardening techniques, and expressing his political views to elected officials. He was preceded in death by his father, Dick Whittaker of Ketchikan, his mother, Judy Whittaker of Anchorage, and three dogs all named Groucho. Survivors include his two beloved dogs, Groucho (the 4th) and Sweetie, siblings Maxx, Juno (niece Jeorgia), Josh, Jetta (nephew Leo and niece Ruby), and Jed, and good friends Clint and Theresa Churchil. At his request, no services will be held; Jake’s his ashes will be spread at various fishing holes. To remember him, please speak kindly to a dog and don’t forget to vote!

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03/23/2026

Thoughtful care and the right setting can make all the difference. This family chose Kehl’s Legacy Funeral Home to honor both grandparents and felt supported every step of the way. Learn about our services here: https://www.legacyalaska.com/services/service-options

03/20/2026

https://www.legacyalaska.com/obituaries/Edward-Chapman?obId=47380084

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03/20/2026

Spring invites us to pause and appreciate the beauty in change. Today marks the start of a season filled with light, growth, and hope.

03/20/2026

In Loving Memory of Norman Richard "Rick" Meyer, Born: February 11, 1947, Departed March 8, 2026

Anchorage and former North Pole and Fairbanks resident Norman "Rick" Meyer died of pancreatic cancer on March 8, 2026. A private service will be held for family in Wasilla with a graveside service at Ft. Richardson National Cemetery later this year.

Rick was born February 11, 1947 in Cleveland, Ohio to Norman and Eileen Meyer and raised in Beaver, Pennsylvania where he graduated from Beaver High School in 1965. He also earned his Eagle Scout Award, the highest rank in the Boy Scouts of America program. In 1969, he graduated from Colorado State University with a bachelor's degree.

Rick served on active duty with the Air Force from 1969, coming to Alaska in 1975, until 1978 when joined the Alaska Air National Guard. He continued to serve until his retirement in 2000 attaining the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. He was the first Security Police Master Sergeant in the history of the Alaska Air National Guard.

Rick worked for the Alaska Department of Labor for over 20 years as an Employment Specialist and helped many Alaskan veterans all over the state find employment. He also felt privileged to be an Alaskan and live in the beauty that is Alaska.

Rick was active with the Boys Scouts, the Fairbanks and North Pole Chambers of Commerce, Youth Litter patrols, and served as a board member with Alaskans for Litter Prevention and Recycling. He also served on the Tony Knowles Alaska State Veterans Advisory Board and was the Alaska Department of Labor's representative on a national level for state agencies for 8 years and helped to found the Interior Veterans Advisory Committee in Fairbanks. He was a member of the American Legion, VFW, DAV, and the Air Force Association, as well as a volunteer at the Museum of Transportation and Industry in Wasilla.

Rick is survived by his wife, Orlanda, of 56 years and 3 children: Christopher Meyer (Sunanta), Richard Meyer (Shelly), and Amy Martin (Nathaniel); 4 grandchildren: Henry Meyer, Maya Meyer, Ryan Martin, and Jessica Martin; and 4 siblings: Patricia Merz, John Meyer, Pamela May, and Daniel Meyer.

He was preceded in death by his mother Eileen Meyer and his father Norman Lee Meyer of Pennsylvania, and his grandson Riley Martin, of Palmer.

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03/17/2026

Maureen Elizabeth Stevenson passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, at The Pioneer Home in Palmer, Alaska. She was 88 years old.

Maureen was born on May 18, 1937, in Santa Rita, New Mexico, to Talbot and Kathryn Barger. She had two brothers, Roland and Stanley Barger.

In her younger years, Maureen moved to Colorado, where she married Jannen “Jack” Amgwert, the only child of Henry “Bud” and Esther Amgwert. During their years in Fort Collins, the couple owned and operated The Westerner, a shop located in downtown Fort Collins that was well known to many in the community.

Maureen and Jack raised five children: Stewart, Kelly, Noel, Ruth, and Reed. In 1971, she moved her family to Palmer, Alaska, where she would spend the remainder of her life. Her later relationships had big impacts on our family. Her marriage to Robert Stevenson brought us four loved Stepsisters: Cindy, Vicky, Ricky, and Wendy. And her long partnership with Stanley Murdock gave her grandchildren a beloved grandfather.

Throughout the years, Maureen worked in many roles that reflected her strong work ethic and independence. She held positions as a line-order cook, school bus driver, receptionist, meter reader, remote camp cook, and landlord.

Maureen had a deep appreciation for the outdoors and simple pleasures. She loved animals, enjoyed gardening, and spent time shooting and bird watching. These interests brought her joy and kept her closely connected to the natural beauty of Alaska.

She will be remembered for her resilience, her independence, and her devotion to family.

Maureen is survived by her children Kelly, Noel, Ruth, and Reed. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers, 3 partners, and her son Stewart.

The public is invited to join us for a memorial on April 18, at 2:00 at the Presbyterian Church in Palmer. A private family remembrance will be held at a later date. The family asks that those who wish to honor Maureen’s memory take time to enjoy the outdoors, care for animals, or tend a garden—simple pleasures she cherished throughout her life.

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