Obituary: Corwin, 53

Lifelong Alaskan John (Larsen) Corwin, 53, passed away peacefully in his sleep June 10, 2012 at his home in Anchorage. 

John was born in Wrangell, and moved to Anchorage in 1967 with his parents, sisters and brothers. He attended Williwaw Elementary, Clark Jr. High and East High. After graduating he attended the University of Washington. He returned to Anchorage and began working in construction, eventually becoming certified in asbestos abatement. 

John was a loving father, grandfather, uncle and brother. He was a traditional Tlingit uncle to his nephews Colin Gay and Joel Corwin, and nieces Tara Thomas, Katy Riley, Tessa Sellars and Sara Swanson. He loved taking them to the park and for long walks. He could often be found wrestling on the floor with all of the kids.

John was an avid sports fan. He loved to read and watch movies, and had amassed a large collection of books and movies. He was the life of every party and enjoyed life to the fullest. He was known for his kindness, generosity and his great sense of humor. He maintained lifelong friendships and stayed in touch with his aunts, uncles and cousins in Southeast. He leaves behind many friends and relatives.

He was preceded in death by his father, Marcus Larsen, and his mother, Juanita Corwin.

He is survived by his son Will, of California, daughter Jessica Wesley and grandson Joseph of Big Lake; sister and brother-in-law, Lindy and Jim Raymer of Anchorage; sister, Ria Larsen of Wrangell; sister and brother-in-law, Tasha and Scott Sellars of Anchorage; and brother Jay Corwin of Cape Town, South Africa.

A private viewing was held Monday, June 11, at the Cremation Society of Alaska. In accordance with Tlingit tradition, a party will be held for John later this summer in Wrangell. John’s ashes will be scattered by his family.