Ronald Patrick Siefker

Ronald Patrick Siefker of Anchorage, Alaska, passed peacefully on December 8, 2024, surrounded by family, after a short battle with cancer. He was 86 years old. At his request, there will be no formal services, but a Celebration of Life will be held this summer. A Mass Intention was offered on December 21, 2024, at Holy Cross Catholic Parish. 

Ron was born on November 30, 1938, in Columbus Grove, Ohio, to the late August and Clara Siefker. He grew up on the family farm, where he learned the value of hard work, a virtue he later passed on to his children and grandchildren.  

At only 21 years old, married and a new father, Ron came to Alaska in 1960 shortly after statehood, eager to build a life for his young family. Over the next six decades, Ron made an indelible mark in Alaska. A master carpenter, he built his own home for his family and constructed many of Anchorage’s most beautiful houses. He often told people that heloves what he does and that his work was his hobby.  His work reflected his pride and craftsmanship.  Later in life, he continued woodworking as a hobby, crafting treasured pieces for family and friends. 

Ron had a passion for adventure and embraced the Alaskan way of life. He owned a Piper PA-12 airplane, which he flew all over Southcentral Alaska for clamming, fishing, and duck and rabbit hunting. These outings became a source of cherished memories for himand his loved ones, as well as a testament to his bold spirit and love for the outdoors. He often remarked, “Alaska has been so good to me,” reflecting his deep gratitude for the life he created here. 

A man of deep faith, Ron often said, “God is so Great.” He expressed his appreciation for the beauty of the world through his faith and actions. Whether marveling at the trees in his yard after the season’s first frost, watching a colorful sunset behind Sleeping Lady from his picture windows, or listening to a homily at Mass, Ron always found moments to reflect on his blessings and the gratitude he carried for the world around him. 

Ron was always ready to help anyone in need. A straight shooter who was sometimes blunt but always fair, he valued integrity, balance, and doing what was right. 

He loved nothing more than his family, especially his grandchildren and great grandchildren, hisdogs, and his woodworking. His word was his bond, and he lived by it. 

Ron had a passion for the stock market and excelled in it. In 2018, he fulfilled a longtimedream by taking his family on a European Viking River Cruise along the Rhine River,using his market earnings. The trip became a treasured memory and a story the family continues to share, a testament to his love for adventure and family.

Ron is survived by his wife, Janice; daughters Brenda Marlow (Mark), Deborah Taggart(Mike), Sena Scott, and Renee Cameron; 10 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren. His family feels incredibly privileged to have shared their lives with this extraordinary man, whose legacy of love, kindness, and craftsmanship will forever remain in their hearts. 

Ron loved all children and was a long-time monthly supporter of St. Jude Children’s Hospital. In honor of his generosity and compassion, the family encourages donations to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 S. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or online at www.stjude.org