Homer Chapel Obituaries

Introduction to Homer Chapel Funeral Home

Homer Chapel Funeral Home, located at 3522 Main Street, Homer, AK, 99603, is a trusted and compassionate funeral home that has been serving the Homer community for years. With a commitment to providing exceptional care and support during difficult times, Homer Chapel has established itself as a beacon of hope and comfort for families in need. In this article, we will delve into the services and amenities offered by Homer Chapel Funeral Home, highlighting what sets them apart from other funeral homes in the area.

A History of Compassionate Care

Homer Chapel Funeral Home has a rich history of providing compassionate care to the families they serve. Founded on the principles of empathy, respect, and dedication, the funeral home has built a reputation for going above and beyond to ensure that every family's needs are met. From traditional funeral services to cremations and memorial ceremonies, Homer Chapel's experienced staff is trained to handle every aspect of the funeral planning process with sensitivity and professionalism.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Rebekah Shelley Griffard - March 03, 1943 - May 15, 2020

Departed: 05/15/2020 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: REBEKAH “HONEY” SHELLEY GRIFFARD On Friday, May 15, 2020, a light went out in the world. Honey Griffard, who overcame so much during her lifetime, was unable to win her last battle. Diagnosed with ALS, a.k.a. Lou Gehrig’s Disease, in 2018, she did what she could to hold this terrible wasting disease at bay, but she finally succumbed to it. She passed away peacefully at home in Homer, Alaska with her husband, COL Bernard F. Griffard, US Army, (Ret) by her side. She lived a gracious, grateful life of service to others, and positively impacted the lives of so many, far beyond her family

Born on March 3, 1943, to Lt. Col. Robert J. Shelley, Jr., USMC, and Rebekah (Becky) Parham Shelley, she was raised in Miami, Florida. Following graduation Magna Cum Laude from the University of Miami in 1965 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing, she married First Lieutenant Douglas G. Magruder. They had a son, Douglas G. Magruder Jr. in September 1967. In November of that year Lt. Magruder was killed in action in Viet Nam. In 1970 she married her current husband COL Bernard F. Griffard, an ROTC Instructor at the University of Miami. They would have celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this coming September. As an Army wife, Honey traveled the world while stationed in Berlin, Germany, Seoul South Korea, and Mons, Belgium. After Bernie’s retirement from the Army in 1993, he and Honey moved to Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, where Bernie became an Associate Professor at the US Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. In 2015 Honey and Bernie moved to Homer, Alaska to be closer to their daughter, Christi, grandson Patrick, and her husband Scott Luper.

A Jehovah’s Witness for over 45 years, she developed warm friendships wherever she lived. Honey had strong faith that the earth will be restored to a paradise, and she now takes her rest and awaits the time when “all those in the memorial tomb will hear Jesus’ voice and come out.”—John 5:28,29.

Honey is survived by her loving, devoted husband COL Bernard Griffard, her son Douglas Magruder (Sonia), her daughter Christine Griffard Luper (Scott), 4 grandsons, Douglas Magruder III, Jeffrey Magruder, Stephen Magruder, Patrick Luper, and 2 great grandchildren, Lily and Elliott Magruder.

She is also survived by her brother, Robert (Robin) J. Shelley III (Susan) of Miami, Florida, sister, Katherine Shelley Blomqvist (Erik) of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. Contributions can be made in her memory to: ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS-TDI) 300 Technology Square Suite 400 Cambridge, MA 02139

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Van F. Stogsdill - May 17, 1935 - May 08, 2020

Departed: 05/08/2020 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Longtime Alaskan and Soldotna resident Van F. Stogsdill, 84, passed away Friday, May 8, 2020 at Central Peninsula Hospital.

Funeral services will be 2 p.m. Saturday, May 16, at the First Baptist Church, 159 Binkley Ave., Soldotna. Viewing will begin at 1 p.m. Saturday at the church. Pastor Keith Longo and Rev. Jim Hamilton will officiate at the service. Burial will follow at Spruce Grove Memorial Park in Kasilof with military honors provided by V.F.W. Post 10046 and American Legion Post 20. A celebration of his life will be held later this summer at the church also.

Pallbearers will be sons, Mark and Bryan Stogsdill, grandson, John Daily, nephew, Ken Griffin, Jake Graves, John Tuttle and Brian Moore.

Van was born May 17, 1935 in Denison, Texas. He graduated from Denison High School and also had taken some college courses. He served in the U.S. Air Force from Nov. 1955 to Aug. 1959 and worked as a jet aircraft mechanic.

Van moved to Alaska in March 1964 and lived in Anchorage until moving to Soldotna in 1967. He returned to Anchorage in 1971 and remained there until 1995, when he made Soldotna his home once again. While in Anchorage, he worked as an Anchorage Airport Limo Driver and then went to work for Sunrise Bakery as a delivery driver in 1965. He retired from Sunrise Bakery in 1989. He then went to work for FedEx in 1990 and was a driver for them until retiring a second time in 2001. It was then that he drove school buses for the Kenai Peninsula School District. He was very proud of receiving a 10 year “Safe Driver Award” while driving school buses in Soldotna.

Van was a member of First Baptist Church, where he was a deacon and adult Sunday school teacher. He also loved studying the bible, reading, carving and whittling, camping and being outdoors. His family said, “Van’s greatest loves were God, his wife and his loving family.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ralph Stogsdill and Mildred (Grundy) Salier, and a sister, Ethelene Price.

Van is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Ruby Eileen (Knutsen) Stogsdill of Soldotna; daughters and son-in-law, Vanessa Tripplet of Knoxville, Tenn., and Vonda Stogsdill and John Daily of Shawneetown, Ill.; sons, Van Mark Stogsdill and Bryan E. Stogsdill and Caitie Martin, all of Soldotna; grandchildren, John W. Daily, Lincoln Van Stogsdill, and Scout Wyant, all of Soldotna; brother and sister-in-law, Curtis R. and Christine Stogsdill of Denton, Texas; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Memorial donation may be sent to Birchwood Behavioral Health Children’s Cottages, 1600 O’Malley Rd., Anchorage, AK 99507.

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Elenore McMullen - May 11, 1939 - April 05, 2019

Departed: 04/05/2019 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Elenore McMullen, 79, passed away on April 5th at South Peninsula Hospital in Homer. Funeral services will be held in Port graham at Saint Herman’s Orthodox Church on Wednesday April 10th at 2:00, with Father James Gust officiating. Burial will follow at the west end cemetery, where mom will be laid to rest beside her parents. A dinner will be held after the burial at the community center. Everyone is invited to come and join us! She was married to Bobby McMullen and last year celebrated their 60th anniversary. Elenore Elizabeth was born in Port Graham to Harry and Barbara Norman on May 11, 1939. She was aptly named after Eleanor Roosevelt and Queen Elizabeth. Mom attended school in Port Graham and Seldovia. After graduating with a G.E.D. she attended Mount Edgecumbe and became a Licensed Practical Nurse. She made nursing her life time career, and loved it! She worked at Alaska Native Medical Center, and at elder facilities in Iowa. She spent many years here in Port Graham as a Health Aide starting as a volunteer. She encouraged and trained individuals to become Health Aides both here and at the Skill Center in Seward. After having lived in Iowa for several years our family moved back to Port Graham in 1972, much to mom’s delight! She worked for the cannery Whitney Fidalgo and in their store as a clerk. During this time, she realized the community was in need of many services and began volunteering to help improve the quality of life here. Mom was later hired as the first Community Health Representative, developing her own job description. That was the beginning of thirty plus years of service. She was on the Village Council for many years and then from 1990- 2002 she served as “Tuyuq” village chief. Mom served on many boards and committees securing much needed services such as an office for a clinic and later on its own building, naming it after her grandmother who was a “healer/midwife”. She worked to secure EMS services, mental health, fire department, alcoholism services, environmental program, Port Graham/Nanwalek watershed program and was instrumental in securing housing, a new school, an Orthodox Church building, the development of the fish hatchery, multi-use facility and more. Mom did a lot of traveling for our community and enjoyed meeting people from all over the country. In 1989 during the Exxon Valdez oil spill she took a presentation to Washington DC on behalf of the late Chief Walter Meganack Sr. to the Oiled Mayors called “The Day the Waters Died” and also represented the people of the Chugach Region by speaking of our concerns and witnessing on the oil spill. She worked tirelessly, not only for the benefit of the people of Port Graham but also for Nanwalek, Seldovia and even Homer. Mom received many awards for her efforts over the years such as the Della Keats Helping Hands award, Chugach Alaska Shareholder of the year, Women of Distinction Haven House etc. She loved the Orthodox religion that she was raised in, participating and serving on the church council for many years. Mom was an avid subsistence user. She was passionate about any type of fishing. She said that while being out on the water fishing it was therapy for her soul and was able to work out anything that was bothering her. Mom loved planting flowers in her yard, taking maqi, enjoying the outdoors and many other things. But most of all she loved spending time with family and friends. Her grandkids and then great grands were always a high priority. Mom loved all of her siblings, Marvin Norman, Christine Saracoff, Harrietta McGahn, nieces, nephews and their children. Some of whom she delivered herself! She just really loved to visit with people! In recent years mom has suffered from dementia/Alzheimer’s. For the past eleven months she was a resident at the Long-Term Care Facility in Homer. We will always be grateful to Dr. Eneboe and the fabulous staff for all their love and tenderness shown to mom while under their care. Quyanakcak! A big thank you! She is survived by her husband Bob, children, Robert, Barbara, Deborah, Jeff and Greg. 15 grandchildren, 21 great grandchildren, many godchildren and lots of relatives. Memory Eternal!

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Joan Audine Berryman Ingram - October 27, 1937 - March 19, 2019

Departed: 03/19/2019 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Joan Audine Berryman Ingram, age 81, died peacefully in Homer, AK on March 10, 2019 surrounded by her loving family. Joan is survived by her children Virginia Audine Ingram, Berenice Isabel Halpin and her husband Mark, and Forney Hurst Ingram III and his wife Michelle as well as her grandchildren Javan Halpin and his fiancee Jenn Poland, Kirsten Halpin, Ben Lyons and his wife Eva, Tara Ingram and her fiance Justin Boon, Forney Ingram IV “Buddy”, and Dawson Ingram. She was preceded in death by the love of her life and husband Forney Hurst Ingram Jr, “Captain Buddy”.

Joan was born in Palo Alto, CA to Col. Waldo and Audine Martin Berryman. She and her sister Sally Mauldin and brother Jon Berryman toured the world as an Army family. She met her future husband in Childersberg, AL. Joannie and Buddy were married at the famed chapel at the US Naval Academy during June week where Buddy graduated as a commissioned officer in the US Navy. Joan was a loyal, committed and dutiful naval officer’s wife and mother. Upon Buddy’s retirement, the family loaded up and drove the AlCan to their final destination in Homer, AK.

Joan earned her Bachelor’s degree in Music at UAA while she was in her 50’s. She went on to teach piano and violin in her home. She was constantly working on her own talents as an accomplished pianist with her teacher and mentor Joel Pietsch of Harbor School of Music. She delighted in performing and publishing a Christmas CD every year and made sure that all of her family and friends received copies.

She also enjoyed playing bridge with her many friends at the Senior Center. Joan had a full and meaningful life right up until her final days.

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Marc Anthony Roderick - August 17, 1972 - March 13, 2019

Departed: 03/13/2019 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Lifelong Alaskan and Anchor Point resident, Mr. Marc Anthony Roderick, 46, died Wednesday, March 13, 2019, in a vehicle accident near mile 33 of the Seward Hwy near Moose Pass, Alaska.

Memorial services will be held 12:00 p.m. Saturday, March 30, 2019 at The Chapman School in Anchor Point.

Marc was born August 17, 1972 in Homer, Alaska. He has lived in Anchor Point all his life. He was the owner of R/C Land Improvement since 1993. Marc also did logging, construction, and gravel pit work. He was a former member of the Anchor Point Fire Department. Marc’s hobbies were hanging out with family and snowmachinging.

The family wrote, “Marc was my everything, July would have marked our 25th wedding anniversary. There are no words to say how great he was or how much he will be missed. – Shanna.

We worked together, we went on adventures together, we had fun together. There won’t be a day that goes by that I won’t miss him. He molded me into the man I am today – Ethan.

He didn’t have to be my dad, but he chose me and was the best Dad I could ever have had – Neill.

He always had a hand for anyone in need and never gave a second thought. He was my hero and always will be. – Aurora.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Carolyn Symens Roderick; brother in-laws, Allen Chapman and Jeffrey Ring.

He is survived by his wife, Shanna M.S. Roderick of Anchor Point; sons, Neill Roderick of Anchor Point and Ethan Roderick of Anchor Point; daughters, Aurora (Russ) Merritt of Anchor Point and Kayla (Dennis) Kendrick of Colorado; grandsons, Michael, Beau, and William all of Anchor Point; father, Paul Roderick of Anchor Point; brothers, Matthew, David and Andy all of Anchor Point; sisters, Sara, Rachel, Martha and Elizabeth all of Anchor Point, Father in-law Gary and Nancy Squires of Homer; mother in-law, Cathy and Art Myers of Michigan; Sister in-law, Danielle Davis of Wasilla, AK; brother in-law, Dean and Azi Squires Fairbanks, Alaska, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.

There was a GO-FUND-ME page set up by friends as well as a bank account at ALASKA USA FCU.

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Jane Baier - July 05, 1935 - February 01, 2019

Departed: 02/01/2019 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Homer resident, Ms. Jane E. Baier, 83, died Friday, Feb. 1, 2019 at Kachemak Assisted Living in Homer.

No services will be held.

Jane was born July 5, 1935 to Donald and Ethel (Linklater) Franklin in Multnomah, Oregon. She moved to Alaska in the early 1950’s living in Homer. Jane was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary. Jane served as a Senior Companion for 10 years with South Peninsula Hospital. She loved cats, was an avid knitter and made hooked rugs. The family wrote, “Jane came to Homer in the late 60’s and worked for HEA in the office. She met and married Karl Baier while working. After they married, she quite HEA and helped Karl with the Homestead Tavern out East End Road. Jane was active in her Auxiliary groups and volunteered in the community. She was always looking after those that needed help. She cared for her mother-in-law Hilda, her husband Karl Baier, and her sister-in-law Francis until their deaths.”

She was preceded in death by her parents, Donald W. and Ethel (Linklater) Franklin; brother, Don Franklin and husband Karl Baier.

Jane and Karl will be scattered together overlooking Kachemak Bay.

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Craig M. Thomas - February 14, 1959 - January 31, 2019

Departed: 01/31/2019 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Craig Michael Thomas February 14, 1959 – January 31, 2019

Craig M. Thomas, 59, of Ninilchik, Alaska died at 3:33 PM on Jan. 31, 2019, at South Peninsula Hospital just two weeks shy of his 60th birthday.

He passed peacefully with his wife, Mariah Thomas-Wolf, by his side.

He was born in Schenectady, New York. Craig served as an NCO for over a decade in Germany, Texas, Washington, Alaska, and the global theater with the U.S. Army Nuclear Chemical Biological Engineers receiving his honorable discharge in Dec. 1989.

He met his soulmate, Mariah, in 1995 while both volunteered with the 1,000 Mile Yukon Quest Sled Dog Race where he held a position on the Quest Board and as the Assistant Race Manager for two years. They married Jan. 2005 at the George E. Wahlen VA Medical Center in Salt Lake City, Utah while Craig was preparing to undergo heart transplant surgery. They made their home in Ninilchik, AK where he worked as a heavy duty / light engine mechanic, but also accompanied his wife, an educator and school principal, across Kachemak Bay to Seldovia, the Kuskokwim village of Tuluksak, Point Hope on the North Slope, and other remote locations with their dogteam; ultimately combining their dogs with the Tuluksak School dogteam to compete successfully, placing 10th, in the Centennial 2008 All Alaska Sweepstakes where Craig provided extensive snowmachine support on the 400 mile race trail from Nome to Candle and back, a mere two years after being released from the transplant facility.

Craig was an active member and Vice Commander of the American Legion Post 18 Ninilchik. Craig enjoyed community events including volunteering at checkpoints and staking trail for the K300 and T200 sled dog races and as a Salmonstock/fest Campground Host and Beergarden Security.

Craig was an avid outdoorsman, a skilled mechanic, and would help anyone in need. His dogs and his family and friends were important to him.

He is survived by his partner of 24 years, Mariah; stepson LifeMed paramedic Zachary Dalton Wolf Schindler; son Terry Lee Thomas, wife Sandra and their four children Selina and her 3 year old son Luca, Ren'e, Denise, Vanessa, and Melinda all of Marktbreit, Germany; and daughter Jennifer Halfpap - Thomas, husband Michael Halfpap and their three children Andre Thomas, and Alisha and Aliyah Halfpap of Marktsteft, Germany.

Craig is predeceased by his father Walter Craig Thomas and survived by his mother Colleen Patricia Simmons of New York, sister Lisa Thomas-Sachar, husband Phil Sachar and their son Damien Sachar of Arizona; sister Kelly Best, husband Walter Best and their children Adrian and Tiffany Lynn Best of New York.

And his four remaining beloved sled dogs Bud, Seed, Lupa, and Bishop.

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William David Tillion - October 09, 1946 - October 20, 2018

Departed: 10/20/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: William David Tillion, Sr. age 72 passed away at his home in Fritz Creek, Alaska on October 20, 2018. He was born on October 9, 1946 in Seward, Alaska to Clem and Diana Tillion. A life-long Alaska resident, Will lived in many places all over the state: Homer, Halibut Cove, Anchor Point, Nuka Bay and Adak, Alaska, to name a few. He was self-employed as a fisherman, a boat and equipment operator, and loved to snow machine and read. Will was a physically powerful man with many skills; he was a talented boat operator and navigator, especially under the worst conditions. He mentored many people in fishing, tow-boating and pilot boat operating. The greatest part of what he shared – “When things go wrong, Stay Calm!” He is preceded in death by his mother, Diana R. Tillion, son, Jedidiah Tillion, and daughter, Alice Tillion. Will is survived by his wife, Marjorie E. Tillion of Fritz Creek, AK, daughter, Tiffany Tillion of Florida, son, Will Tillion, Jr. of Arizona, his father, Clem Tillion, Jr. of Halibut Cove, AK, sisters, Marian T. Beck of Halibut Cove, AK, Martha T. Cotton of Halibut Cove, AK, brother, Vincent Tillion of Halibut Cove, AK, granddaughters, Melissa Todd of Anchorage, AK, Elizabeth Burns of Anchorage, AK, Ivy Tillion-Rodriguez of Port Graham, AK, Mercedes Pennington of Anchorage, AK, grandson, Alex Tillion of Bozeman, MT, five (5) great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and extended family, as well as many lifelong friends.

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Harold James "Jim" Dress - March 17, 1947 - October 17, 2018

Departed: 10/17/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Harold “Jim” Dress, 71, of Anchor Point, Alaska, passed away at home with his family by his side on 17 Oct 2018.

A Funeral Service with military honors will be held at Fort Richardson National Cemetery on 2 Nov 2018 at 1 PM.

Jim was born in Pottstown, PA to Harold and Dorothy Dress on 17 Mar 1947. Jim joined the Army in 1965 and after being commissioned as an Aviator, flew two combat tours in Vietnam earning the Distinguished Flying Cross, Bronze Star and Purple Heart. After serving his country for 23 years, Jim spent his retirement years serving the community and helping people as a member of many benevolent volunteer organizations: Anchor Point Fire and Emergency, Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, Legion Riders, Cooties, Military Order of the Purple Heart, Vietnam Veterans of America, Marine Corps League, Anchorage Masonic Lodge #17, Free and Accepted Masons of Alaska Scottish Rite Masons, and Valley of Alaska AL ASKA Shriners.

Jim is survived by his mother Dorothy Dress, wife of 50 years Sandy, son Josh and Jennifer Dress, sister Patti and Ricky Crosby, brother-in-law Peter Alexakis, niece Jennifer Dress, nephews Zachary and Christopher Alexakis, and Ron and Ellen Godden.

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Brenda Steenblock - August 06, 1940 - August 06, 2018

Departed: 08/06/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Brenda Steenblock, 78 passed away peacefully in her sleep on her birthday at South Peninsula Hospital on August 6, 2018.

Brenda was a wonderful compassionate person, who was loved by her family. She was a loving daughter to her mother Jerry, and cared for her until her death. She gave her love and energy to her brothers, sister, nieces and nephews. Family was her life.

She arrived in Homer in 1972 with her brother, sister and her family. She started out as a Spit Rat, camping and working the slime line at Icicle Seafoods. After the summer, Brenda started work for Dr. Eneboe and later moved to the business office at South Peninsula Hospital, where she stayed and made lasting friendships until 1989. She began work at Homer Senior Citizens in 1989 where she stayed until she retired in 2006. After retirement Brenda enjoyed family, friends, gardening and reading.

She also volunteered at the hospital and senior center.

Brenda is survived by her sister Robin Daugherty of Homer; brother, Terry Steenblock of Boise, Idaho; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her mother, father, brother, Robert Steenblock, brother-in-law, Mike Daugherty and nephew, Kevin Daugherty.

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Robert Calvin Turtainen - March 22, 1951 - June 13, 2018

Departed: 06/13/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Robert (Bob) Calvin Turtainen passed away on Wednesday, June 13, 2018 after a brief but spectacular illness. Bob was the second child of Charlotte and Armas Turtianen, born on March 22, 1951 in Kirkland, WA.

He met Mari in Washington and invited her and the children to Montana where he was a plumber on the High Line and directional faller for Champion.

Bob was brilliant at taking his new suburbanite family and teaching them the ways of the Big Sky Country: Fishing, hiking, camping, canoeing, and skiing in the winters.

He was involved in EMS and helped relocate families to safe havens due to domestic violence. He worked well with the local Sheriff and Ambulance crew.

In 1991 he went back to his family’s adventurous roots and returned to Alaska. His great-grandfather, George C. Hazelet was the founding father of both Valdez and Cordova. Valdez is now located where their hayfield used to be. The hospital is located on Hazelet and Galena Streets. The first oil well in Alaska was located just outside Cordova and owned by George. The family home; the first all-steam heated home designed by George is still standing in Cordova. Bob and Mari first arrived in Homer, but then found their way to Anchor Point where they built their dream home in the woods next to a lake. Bob raised his own dog team of nine that lasted just short of 18 years. He stayed active in he community by serving as an ambulance driver while Mari treated patients in the back. He also enjoyed listening to music, playing the harmonica, and helping others with their own musical endeavors.

Bob is survived by his wife of 38 years, Mari; his two children, Aaron and Danielle; his three siblings, Kay Doberfuhl, Tom Turtainen, and Tim Turtainen; his four nieces and two nephews, four grandchildren, and numerous friends that extend all over the great Northwest. He lived his life to the fullest and as best as he could right to the end.

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James Powell Ryder - August 22, 1933 - May 27, 2018

Departed: 05/27/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: James Powell Ryder was born in Syracuse, Kansas on August 22, 1933. He was the son of Dorsey Powell Ryder and Verna Jeanette Woods. His sisters were Jean and Gail. His brothers were Harry, Frank, and Bob. The only survivor is Robert Ryder of Utah.

He married Gertrude Smilhula in September 1954 upon returning to California after three years in the U.S. Marine Corps. He spent 15 months as a combat Marine in Korea where he earned the purple heart and several military ribbons. He divorced in July 1962, and he married Merilyn Hirsch on August 15, 1962 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

He was the legal father of eight sons and four daughters, 20 grandchildren, and was a great-grandfather. His eight sons were Michael, Elton, Christopher, James, Gregory, Paul, Robert, and Ronald. His four daughters include Melinda, twins Dora and Doris, and Sherilyn.

He arrived in Alaska in January of 1970 and was hired by an oil company two days later. Jim was an exceptionally talented man who was able to operate and repair heavy equipment, huge generators, as well as an expert welder; concrete work, plumbing, electrical work and carpentry.

He was partner-owner of J & M Welding and Excavation in Palmer and the Homer area from 1971 to 2004. He was also a licensed real estate agent, a correctional officer, and universal heavy equipment operator and mechanic. He was in great demand during the winter months for thawing water and sewer lines for individuals and businesses from Sheep Mountain, Sutton, Palmer, Wasilla, Willow, etc. During one bitter winter, a woman kept calling for him though other pipe thawers were closer to her home. Finally, Merilyn asked WHY this woman only wanted Jim. The woman said, “Because he is the only one who hasn’t burnt down any houses!”

He deeply loved his family and was responsible for helping raise his granddaughters Ronda and Elaina after their father died when they were only 6 and 18 months old. Their mother could not raise them and died when they were in grade school.

Besides working as a finish blader operator in Nevada and Montana, he was interested in gold mining, hunting, and fishing. He loved his cows as well as other animals, including dogs and horses. He often gave $100-dollar bills to people in need even when he didn’t have much money himself.

He and son-in-law, Aaron, spent several years hauling gravel to upgrade the roads in the Russian villages at the end of East End Road during 1992-1995. He also worked for the Homer Food Bank for eight years.

In Las Vegas, Nevada he worked for Longley Construction as well as doing concrete patios and walls during the weekends. One customer was Sally Rand known for her fan dancing. The planter he made for the first new home when he was married in 1962 is still in great condition though other parts of the home on Randall Drive have been changed. He was very interested in medicine, and had hoped to become a doctor. That did not happen, but he sewed up himself as well as animals and even children.

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Marcia Jean Kaufman - November 30, 1951 - May 10, 2018

Departed: 05/10/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Marcia Jean Kaufman November 30, 1951 – May 10, 2018

Marcia and her husband, Rex, with their 3 children, moved to Homer in 1994. They started two businesses which provided services to a growing community. They loved being a part of Homer and shared the passion for the beauty of Homer and Alaska.

Marcia was diagnosed at the age forty with Multiple Sclerosis. She struggles and fought for 27 years to stay ahead of the disease; practicing diet control, exercise, alternative medicine while partnering with Homer’s incredible physicians. Above all, Marcia lived for her precious time against the disease, to be with her beloved husband, children and grandchildren.

Funeral Services will be held 2:00 p.m. Friday, May 18th, 2018 at The Homer Community Church, 3838 Bartlett Street in Homer. She will be laid to rest following service at the Hickerson Memorial Park Cemetery on Diamond Ridge Road. Pastor David Taylor will be officiating.

Marcia is survived by her husband Rex Kaufman, children, Jamie Kaufman Bacher, Lindsey Kaufman Krueger, Logan Rex Kaufman, and grandchildren, Mia, Isabella and Troy; sister, Susan Connors E.

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Mary Ellen Berger - June 27, 1951 - May 07, 2018

Departed: 05/07/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Mary Ellen Berger 1951-2018

Mary Ellen Berger, 66, of Ninilchik, Alaska passed away peacefully with her family by her side on May 7th at Central Peninsula Hospital in Soldotna.

Mary was born in Wenatchee, Washington on June 27, 1951 to Harold and Bernice (Carney) Cunningham. She graduated from Wenatchee High School in 1969.

Mary was a free spirit in the early 70s. She lived with her dear lifelong friend, Kathleen Smith (Morton). She found herself in Spokane and on road trips with her brother. She was a bold, fearless woman and journeyed to Alaska’s Dutch Harbor for two summer seasons to work in canneries all on her own before meeting the love of her life. Mary met her husband, Jeff Berger, in 1975 in Wenatchee. Jeff and a friend were drywalling a house, a community church project, and Mary was to be the first tenant! They were officially introduced at a party where Mary wrote her phone number for Jeff in the dust on the dashboard of his car. This was the beginning of a beautiful life together. Mary and Jeff were married on September 2, 1977. Mary and Jeff went back and forth between working in Alaska and obtaining their degrees at Western Washington University in Bellingham. She graduated Cum Laude and passed the CPA exam in 1984. Alaska kept drawing them back and they first moved to Anchorage in 1985. She worked in Anchorage with Anchorage Water and Wastewater Utility as an accountant. Then in the late 80s they moved to Ninilchik, for as Mary has said many times, “It’s the best place to raise a family.”

Ninilchik welcomed Mary and Jeff as they built their legacy around Deep Creek Custom Packing for 26 years. They were a brilliant team and through their business and commitment to Ninilchik they acquired many lifelong friendships.

Mary found joy in the simple things in life: family dinners, holidays, baking, traveling, a good mystery to solve, and getting lost in her world of numbers. She was a kind-hearted, adventurous, compassionate woman who loved to spend time with her granddaughters. She had a smile that could light up the room, and will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her.

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David Michael Manson - March 07, 1946 - April 25, 2018

Departed: 04/25/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: David Michael Manson passed away at his home in Homer, Alaska on April 25, 2018 at the age of 72. He was born on March 7, 1946 in Seattle, Washington to John and Corneal (Shonka) Manson. David graduated in 1964 from Fairbanks High School and then went to West Point as a Medic for the Army. He graduated from the University of Akron, Ohio in 1972 with a bachelor’s Degree of Science in Education, and a graduate of Physical Therapy from the University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia in 1973. David worked as a Physical Therapist in Port Charles, Florida from 1973 to 1990. He moved to Homer, Alaska in 1990 and worked as a physical therapist at South Peninsula Hospital until he retired in 1995. The pride, joy and love of his life was raising his baby girl, Kira Inman, supporting as a father figure to Jessica Inman, Remembered and Respected for his devoted work with the friends of Bill W. and like to play computer games. David is survived by his wife Jeanne Manson, step daughter Chrissie Johnson, daughter Heather Dobbs, sons Todd and Kent Manson, and brothers Harvey and Robbie Manson. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday May 12, 2018 from 1:00pm to 3:00pm at the Regent Life Church in Homer, Alaska. Donations can be made to the Regent Life Church, PO Box 641 Homer, AK 99603.

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Nick Tanape - January 09, 1946 - April 21, 2018

Departed: 04/21/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Lifelong Nanwalek resident, Mr. Nick Miller Tanape, Sr., 72, died Saturday, April 21, 2018 at his home in Nanwalek.

Services were held 10:00 a.m. Monday, April 23, 2018 in Nanwalek. Pallbearers included Jeff Huntsman, Nick Wood, John Romanoff, Seth Tanape, Jay Greene, Adrian Tanape, Keith Seville, III, and Isiah Bales.

Nick was born January 9, 1946 in English Bay Alaska. He loved carving, fishing, subsistence, gathering ivory carvings and spending time with his grandchildren. He received the Silver Hand award, was on the Sea Otter Commission, Harbor Seal Commission and Americore. The family wrote, Nick Tanape was an avid hunter and gatherer, who shared his catch with family and friends. He enjoyed visiting family, drinking tea and coffee with cousins. Nick was involved in the community providing arts and crafts, basketball/ volleyball tournaments, New Years Eve Celebrations, Breast Cancer Banquets (Honoring his late wife Susan Tanape). He enjoyed being out on the water with the fish. He spent many days driving up the lakes to Dog Fish to hunt and gather.”

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Alma Tanape; wife, Susan Tanape; siblings, Steve Tanape, Mike Tanape, Chris Tanape and Herman Tanape.

He is survived by his daughter, Christine (Kevin) Seville of Nanwalek; son, Kevin, Jr. (Kilann) Tanape of Nanwalek; grandchildren, Carmella Tanape, Seth Tanape, Shania Tanape, Emma Tanape and Noah Seville all of Nanwalek; brothers, Lloyd Tanape of Homer and Ralph Johnson of Anchorage.

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John Smith - March 18, 1926 - April 15, 2018

Departed: 04/15/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: John Smith passed peacefully at home on April 15,2018 surrounded by family and no longer suffering from congestive heart failure. One of his favorite sayings was “If you don’t die young, you’ll get old one day” and he proved it in a very graceful way. John Smith (born Nagy, Sandor) was born in Kiskunderozsma, Hungary on March 18, 1926 to Dudas, Erzsabet, and Nagy, Jozsef, and was the 9th of 10 children. Born during the communist regime in Hungary, John worked hard to help his family survive which meant helping in the fields, weaving baskets and learning the trade of barber. Through political unrest and upheaval, he found himself in a displaced persons camp in Austria in 1950. Finally, able to get passage to another country he found himself in America in 1951. Upon arriving in New York City, he determined to become a good American and worked hard to show himself worthy. Wanting a “good American” name, he looked in the New York phone book and chose…John Smith. He taught himself English by watching movies at the theaters and learning whatever trade he could. He was hired as a kitchen helper in a large hotel restaurant but caught on quickly and was soon one of the head chefs. After his naturalization process, John moved to Miami Beach, Florida, continuing his career in cooking, until one hot, humid day, in 1958 he announced he was moving to Alaska. So, 2 weeks later, he packed up his 1956 convertible and drove to Alaska. He got a job on the Alaska Railroad cooking in the club car. This was also where he met his wife Norma ‘Jo’ Smith who was the waitress on the train. They married in 1960 at which time they quit the railroad and opened the 5th Ave Café. 3 years later they sold the business and began operating a rooming house for the BIA, for native girls going to school. In 1965 they owned and operated the San Su San Smorgasbord, (where kids could eat for a penny a pound). They sold in 1969 and they spent time working in various communities in the bush and on the slope. From 1970-72 they operated one of the first halfway houses for the department of corrections. They moved to Seward and owned and operated the Breeze Inn Restaurant and Motel until selling in 1977, but returned to manage the business for the then current owners. In 1983, he celebrated one of his greatest moments, when he was able to be reunited with his Hungarian family (including his 93-year-old mother) for the first time in 35 years, after thinking they were all dead. What a time of celebration that he was able to enjoy, including 2 trips back to the “old country”. In 1985, they spent time working as camp cooks in Barrow, and enjoyed walking the beach and looking for old mammal bones and fossils. In 1990 John and his family moved to Bethel where he managed the kitchen of the Kuskokwim Inn. In 1992, they moved to Homer, where they owned and operated the Smith Family Restaurant, and the Windjammer Suites Motel and continued to reside on the premises until his passing. John was a man of few words, but great wisdom. He lived his life constantly displaying his love for his family. He loved serving those around him and he lived out his faith in his savior, Lord Jesus Christ. John touched every person he met with his strength of character, his hard work ethics, and his love for those around him. He will be greatly missed by his family, friends and community. He is preceded in death by his parents, his 9 siblings, and his daughter Aloma Suella Gunderson He is survived by his wife Norma Jo, daughter Jonnie & her husband Terry, his son Russ and wife Karen, 9 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, and several great-great-grandchildren and many family and friends who will miss him very much. A service was scheduled April 17, 2018 at the Independent Baptist Church in Homer, Alaska at 4pm.

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Leander G. Rempel - August 18, 1936 - March 23, 2018

Departed: 03/23/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Leander Rempel, 81, passed away peacefully on March 23, 2018. A Celebration of Life will be Sunday, April 8 at 3 pm at Glacierview Baptist Church, Homer. Burial in Glennallen will take place at a later date.

Leander loved the Lord and had a life full of ministry – traveling, church work, and giving leadership to the mission organization SEND International.

Having chosen to retire in Homer, Leander enjoyed the community and was involved at Glacierview Baptist Church.

The family would like to express their appreciation to South Peninsula Hospital Long Term Care for their capable and compassionate care during the past 14 months.

He will be remembered by his friends and family for his gentle soul, easygoing nature, his sense of humor, interest in people, never-ending ideas, and eternal optimism.

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Clinton Dale Walker - September 03, 1953 - March 03, 2018

Departed: 03/03/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Clinton Dale Walker, 59 passed away at his home in Anchor Point, Ak on March 3, 2018. He was born on September 3, 1953 in Durham, North Carolina to Walter and Annie (Veasy) Walker. Clinton served in the U.S. Army for 18 years. He moved to Anchorage, Ak in March of 2015 and later moved to Anchor Point, AK. Clinton worked as a Greyhound bus driver in Jacksonville, Florida, then manager at the Salvation Army in Homer, Alaska. He loved to fish. Clinton is survived by his wife Kendra Walker of Anchor Point, AK, sons; Christopher and his wife Teresa Walker of Kingsley, GA, Michael Walker of Green Bay, WI, Zachery Walker of Kingsley, GA , sisters; Cora Rigsby-Page of Durham, NC, Netta Dwiggins of Virginia Beach, VA, step-daughter Lymera Pole of Jacksonville, FL, step-son Chester Pole of Chris, GA, many nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. A celebration of Clinton’s life will be held at 4:30pm on Wednesday March 21, 2018, in Homer, AK at the Salvation Army Church, 1468 Sterling Hwy, Homer, AK 99603. A repast will be held at 34577 N. Fork Road, Anchor Point, following services.

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Marilyn Virginia Prevost - August 06, 1937 - January 22, 2018

Departed: 01/22/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: In Loving Memory of Marilyn Virginia Prevost.

Born in Fairbanks,AK in 1937. Raised in Livengood,AK ,Marilyn was the first child in Livengood,1937. Moving to Homer in 1944,where she grew up, Graduated from Homer High School. Married and raised 4 children. She enjoyed Knitting,Puzzles,Reading, Plants,bird watching and family.

Marilyn was well known for her love and compassion for everyone.An angel on earth. We love you Mom.

Marilyn was survived by her sister Barbara Ander’s.

children.Ed Prevost jr. Cheryl Gardner. Paul Prevost. Robert Prevost.

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Gary J Peterson - November 29, 1935 - January 16, 2018

Departed: 01/16/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Gary J. Peterson, 82, passed away at South Peninsula Hospital on January 16, 2018.

A funeral Mass will be held at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church on Tuesday, Jan 30, 2018, at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at the Anchor Point Cemetery. He will be laid to rest beside his beloved wife as was his wish.

He was born in San Francisco on Nov. 29, 1935. He enjoyed hiking the hills of San Francisco as a teen. He joined the Marines in the 1950s and was stationed in Japan where he used his artistic abilities to draw maps for the military. Gary met his wife Tsuyako (Suzi) in Okinawa in the 1960s, they married and returned to California.

Gary worked at Lockheed for a few years and then decided to move to Alaska. Gary and his wife Suzi moved to Homer in 1970 where he worked as an alcohol counselor. In his spare time, he enjoyed painting scenes of the Kenai Peninsula.

He was preceded in death by his wife Suzi, his twin brother, and his parents.

He is survived by his sister Mary Montini of San Francisco, and stepdaughter Akie Hosoda of Osaka, Japan.

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Edgar P. Bailey - July 10, 1937 - January 14, 2018

Departed: 01/14/2018 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Remembering Edgar P. Bailey--Alaska Wilderness Explorer, Conservation Activist, and Philanthropist

Edgar P. Bailey passed away peacefully in his sleep on January 14, 2018, in Homer after a protracted debilitating illness.

Growing up with a dad who was exploring the jungles of Indonesia (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PThmPe_u8ks), South America, and Africa, Edgar Bailey learned to do his own exploring. Not content with city life in Hollywood, young Ed got into all sorts of trouble diverting traffic on his street creating fake detours and other pranks that conveyed his discontent.

To keep him out of trouble and assuage his need for a life in the countryside, his folks sent him to Ojai Valley School, a life-changing and memorable experience that included lifelong friends and memories. Illness prevented him from attending high school at a boarding school, so he attended Hollywood High and discovered he loved science, especially biology. On hikes in the Hollywood Hills with his dad he gained an appreciation and skills in birding and hiking, fueling his lifelong love of the outdoors.

After earning his undergraduate degree in biology at the University of Redlands, he then pursued a Master’s Degree in wildlife biology at Utah State in Logan. He wrote his master’s thesis on starlings. Birds became his life's passion for work and pleasure.

He married his first wife and after college hired on with the National Park Service. He did stints in Capulin Mountain Volcano National Monument, Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, and Death Valley National Park. He was disillusioned by life as a park service naturalist since he spent a lot of time in Visitor Centers telling people where the bathrooms were and the cost of a postcard.

He wanted to do biology and exploration.

He transferred to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife and went to Fish Springs National Wildlife Refuge and then transferred to Hart Mountain Antelope Refuge. While at Fish Springs the military experimented with nerve gas and sheep died all around the Refuge. At Hart Mountain his son, Lorne, was born.

In 1969, he and his family transferred to the remote Izembek National Wildlife Refuge in Cold Bay, Alaska. During his stay in Cold Bay, he and his wife parted ways. In 1973, Ed transferred to Anchorage and worked in the Regional Office of the US Fish and Wildlife Service. In summers he was sent out to the field as these were exciting times in Alaska with discussions of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA,) and plans for new refuges and monuments all over Alaska. He was part of the planning team for the Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge now located in Homer Alaska.

Ed met Nina Faust, his long-time partner and wife, at a Mountaineering Club meeting in Anchorage in 1973. Cleverly he signed up for the hike she had signed up for, got there early, and was already sitting on top of Bird Ridge when she got there. He asked her to go to the movies with him, the beginning of their 45 years of life adventures together.

Ed’s career took him to remote field areas each summer, and Nina became his annual summer volunteer. First projects were exploring all the coastal areas on the Alaska Peninsula, Kenai Peninsula, and offshore island groups counting seabirds and marine mammals. Trips were solo--just Ed and Nina--most of the time. They travelled up to a month along treacherous wilderness coastlines and offshore islands carrying all their food and supplies for up to a month in a 16-foot rubber inflatable boat. Their only way to contact the outside world then was an ELT (Emergency Locator Beacon). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WK4unCRIVuM

After the 1980’s Alaska Lands Act passed, the summer projects took on Restoration of Island Biodiversity, a project to trap off introduced foxes put on islands in the 1800’s into the 1940’s. The foxes decimated the seabird populations leaving the islands biologically impoverished. Removing the foxes allowed seabirds to recolonize, bringing back their biologically important guano that helps plant life thrive. Trips to the remote Shumagin Islands and the weather-challenged Aleutians were taken each year till Ed retired in 1995.

Each summer after the refuge field season, they floated remote rivers all over Alaska, including some of the largest and best known glacial rivers. Many of these trips are recounted in videos on Youtube. http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL6jFcdH_im3qjgwVa14e9D6hIYf94R-AC In winter they travelled to the desert southwest to explore mountains and parks.

Ed was a devoted conservation activist and worked on many important issues with various conservation groups over the years, including trying to end the practice of bear baiting and aerial wolf hunting in Alaska, stopping the parking of oil rigs in Kachemak Bay, keeping oil and gas drilling out of Kachemak Bay, making Kachemak Bay a jet ski free area, stopping the coalbed methane oil and gas lease in Homer, to just mention a few. As an avid birder, he worked to protect local habitat in Kachemak Bay, served on the Kachemak Bay State Park Advisory Board, and co-founded Kachemak Crane Watch with Nina. He also has provided a building to house the Cook Inlet keeper at a subsidized rent. In 2004, the Alaska Conservation Foundation honored him with the Celia Hunter Award for Outstanding Volunteer Contributions; in 2014 the Kachemak Heritage Land Trust selected him for their Land at Heart Award honoring distinguished contributions to conservations on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula.

In retirement, Ed wanted to start his own wildlife preserve so he bought as many contiguous lands as were available to piece together a wildlife corridor that is managed as a preserve for all wildlife, and especially for Sandhill Cranes. Today that 650-acre private preserve is known as Inspiration Ridge Preserve, and in the near future it will officially become a preserve actively run by the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies. This will be a lasting legacy of Ed’s conservation efforts, a cause he has worked for all his adult life.

Ed is survived by his partner and wife of 45 years, Nina Faust and his son, Lorne Bailey.

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Daymon Lee Allison - July 10, 1964 - December 25, 2017

Departed: 12/25/2017 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Daymon Lee Allison age 53 passed away on December 25, 2017 at his home in Anchor Point, Alaska.

He was born on July 10, 1964 in Van Buren, Arkansas.

Daymon moved to Alaska in 1998, residing in Barrow, Anchorage, and finally Anchor Point. He worked for the State of Alaska and the North Slope of Barrow. Daymon loved fishing and hunting.

He was preceded in death by his father Melvin Allison, brother Robert Allison, and a sister Janet Allison.

Daymon is survived by his wife Penny Allison of Michigan, mother Loretta Sanders of Muldrow, OK, brother Presley (Monica)Allison of Van Buren, AR, sister Connie (Harry) Jones of Muldrow, OK, daughter Kelsey Allison of Russellville, AR, and 3 granddaughters.

A Memorial service will be held at a later date.

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Jack Lee Berg - April 01, 1954 - December 19, 2017

Departed: 12/19/2017 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Homer resident, Mr. Jack Berg, 63, died Friday, Dec. 19, 2017 at his home in Homer.

No services will be held at this time.

Mr. Berg was born April 1, 1954 in Jamestown, New York. He graduated from Maple Grove High School in Bemus Point, New York. Jack moved to Homer in April of 2004. When he first came to Alaska, he worked several years as a deckhand. He also worked for many years at the Sport Shed on the Homer Spit. Jack loved to fish. He was a true Alaskan who loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing. The family wrote, “Jack was the love of my life, my best friend and wonderful father to “Our Boys”. He had taken wonderful care of me in the past four years through my health issues – and continued to do so up till 2 days before he passed. We had 25 years of happiness and when we moved to Alaska in 2004, Jack was already in Heaven. He had all the fishing and hunting he could ask for. I am absolutely heart broken and want to thank all our family and friends for their support.”

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Robert Berg.

He is survived by his wife Karen Anderson of Homer; sons, Jason (Heather) Anderson of Rocky Mount, NC and Patrick (Laura) Anderson of Wesley Chapel, FL and 6 grandchildren.

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Colleen Ann Clifford - March 16, 1964 - November 21, 2017

Departed: 11/21/2017 (Homer)

Obituary Preview: Colleen Ann Clifford passed away on November 21st in Homer, Alaska at the age of 53 at South Peninsula Hospital.

Colleen’s celebration of life will be held at Glacier view Baptist Church in Homer, Alaska on Saturday, March 17, 2018 from 12:00 p.m. -3:00 p.m.

She was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on March 16, 1964.

Colleen was strong in her Christian faith and a talented singer and was able to combine these passions in the church choir. She was also an accomplished artist and love to paint and drawing as well as making dolls. Gardening was also something she enjoyed, and sunflowers and forget-me-nots were some of her favorites. Colleen was very loving, passionate and kind to everyone.

She loved her family dearly and leaves behind her husband Michael Clifford and her children Caleb, Cassandra, Katarina Leavitt. Ayrton and Breck Clifford.

She will be missed by her siblings Kelly, Michael, Brian and John McCully.

Colleen is preceded in death by her grandparents Arthur Gibson and Dorothy, her parents Arthur and Ruth her sister Catherine Eileen McCully.

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Personalized Funeral Services

At Homer Chapel Funeral Home, every funeral service is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of the family. From selecting the perfect casket or urn to choosing music, flowers, and other personalized elements, the funeral home's staff works closely with families to create a meaningful and memorable celebration of life. Whether you're planning a traditional funeral, a memorial service, or a cremation ceremony, Homer Chapel's team is dedicated to ensuring that every detail is carefully considered and executed.

Cremation Options

Homer Chapel Funeral Home offers a range of cremation options to suit individual preferences and budgets. From direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service, the funeral home's staff is knowledgeable about the various cremation choices available and can guide families through the decision-making process. Additionally, Homer Chapel has partnered with local crematories to ensure that all cremations are performed with dignity and respect.

Pre-Planning Services

One of the most valuable services offered by Homer Chapel Funeral Home is pre-planning. By planning ahead, individuals can spare their loved ones from having to make difficult decisions during an already emotional time. The funeral home's staff can help you create a personalized plan that reflects your wishes and budget, giving you peace of mind knowing that your final arrangements are taken care of.

Facilities and Amenities

Homer Chapel Funeral Home boasts modern facilities designed to provide comfort and convenience for families. The funeral home's chapel is warm and inviting, featuring state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment and comfortable seating for guests. In addition, Homer Chapel offers ample parking, wheelchair accessibility, and a variety of amenities to make the funeral planning process as smooth as possible.

Community Involvement

Homer Chapel Funeral Home is deeply committed to giving back to the community it serves. Through partnerships with local organizations and charities, the funeral home demonstrates its dedication to supporting those in need. From hosting grief support groups to participating in community events, Homer Chapel is an integral part of the fabric of Homer's social landscape.

Grief Support Resources

Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, but Homer Chapel Funeral Home is here to support you every step of the way. The funeral home offers a range of grief support resources, including counseling services, support groups, and online resources. Their staff is also happy to connect families with local bereavement organizations and professionals who can provide additional guidance and comfort.

Contacting Homer Chapel Funeral Home

If you're in need of funeral services or simply have questions about the funeral planning process, don't hesitate to reach out to Homer Chapel Funeral Home. You can contact them by phone at [phone number], email at [email address], or visit their website at [website URL]. Their compassionate staff is always available to offer guidance and support during difficult times.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and other biographical information. It may also include details about their life, accomplishments, and surviving family members.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a lasting tribute to the deceased, preserving their memory and legacy.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, a family member or close friend of the deceased writes the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or mortuary may assist with writing the obituary or provide a template for the family to fill out.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about the funeral or memorial service.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words.

Can I include photos or other multimedia in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and some print publications allow you to include photos, videos, or audio clips to enhance the tribute to the deceased.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or online platform?

Contact the newspaper or online platform directly to inquire about their submission process and any specific guidelines they may have. Some may require a funeral home or mortuary to submit the obituary on behalf of the family.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or online platform. Some newspapers charge by the word or line, while others offer package deals that include additional services like online memorials or guest books.

Can I edit or update an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, it's possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after it's been published. Contact the publication or online platform directly to request changes.

How long will an online obituary remain available?

The duration that an online obituary remains available varies depending on the platform. Some may keep it active indefinitely, while others may archive it after a certain period.

Can I write my own obituary in advance?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance as a way to control how they're remembered and to spare their loved ones from having to do so during a difficult time.

Is it appropriate to include humor or personal anecdotes in an obituary?

Absolutely! Including humor or personal stories can help capture the personality and spirit of the deceased, making the obituary more engaging and memorable.

Should I include charitable donations or memorial information in an obituary?

Yes, including information about charitable donations or memorial contributions can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a cause they cared about.

Can I include quotes, poems, or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, incorporating quotes, poems, or song lyrics can add depth and emotion to an obituary, providing insight into the deceased's values and personality.

How do I ensure accuracy when writing an obituary?

Triple-check facts such as dates, names, and spellings to ensure accuracy. It's also a good idea to have multiple people review the obituary before submitting it for publication.

Can I write an obituary for someone who didn't want a traditional funeral or memorial service?

Yes, an obituary can still be written as a way to acknowledge and celebrate the person's life, even if they didn't want a traditional funeral or memorial service.

How do I handle sensitive or private information when writing an obituary?

Omit any sensitive or private information that could be hurtful or embarrassing to surviving family members or friends. Focus on celebrating the person's life and achievements instead.

Can I include information about the deceased's pets in an obituary?

Yes, many people consider their pets to be part of their family and would like them mentioned in the obituary. This can be especially comforting for those who are grieving.

How do I write an obituary for someone who died under difficult circumstances?

approach this situation with sensitivity and compassion. Focus on celebrating the person's life and accomplishments rather than dwelling on the circumstances of their death.

Can I use social media to share an obituary?

Yes, social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter can be effective ways to share an obituary with a wider audience and reach people who may not have seen it through traditional channels.

How do I preserve an online obituary for future generations?

Consider printing out a copy of the online obituary or saving it digitally in a secure location. You may also want to create a physical scrapbook or memory book with copies of the obituary and other mementos.

Are there any specific guidelines for writing an obituary for someone who was well-known or public figure?

When writing an obituary for someone who was well-known or a public figure, be sure to include relevant details about their career achievements and public life. You may also want to consult with colleagues, friends, or family members who knew them best.

Can I write an obituary for someone who has been deceased for many years?

Yes, even if someone has been deceased for many years, you can still write an obituary as a way to honor their memory and share their story with others.