John Richard Koweluk

John Koweluk, 65, passed away in Anchorage, Alaska, on Jan. 31, 2023.

John was born in Nome, Alaska, on Dec. 10, 1957. He grew up in Anchorage after moving with his family as a child.

John worked as a laborer on the North Slope after high school, eventually becoming a successful Inupiaq ivory carver.

His work included ivory and baleen bracelets, earrings and animal carvings featuring fish, eagles and bears.

John loved to hunt, fish and camp with his family in his free time. He also enjoyed ATV, snowmobile and boat riding.

Survivors include his brothers Bob Koweluk of Dillingham, Alaska, and Mike and Harvey Koweluk of Anchorage; daughter Andrea Koweluk of Maple Valley, Wash.; son William "Billy" Koweluk of Anchorage; and four grandsons.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ruth and Teddy Koweluk; and sisters, Kay Orfitelli, Louise Blake and Hazel Nyberg.

A private service was held on Feb. 3, 2023.

John's remains are to be cremated and scattered at several of his favorite fishing and hunting spots.