Herbert Gene Kunnuk

Lifelong Alaskan Herbert Gene Kunnuk, 54, known to his family as “Boss,” passed away May 26, 2015, surrounded by his family.

A celebration of life for Herbert is at 2 p.m., June 6 at the Alaskan Heritage Memorial Chapel, 1015 South Check St., Wasilla. A reception follows.

Herbert was born Feb. 4, 1961 in Seward, the second eldest boy of eight children, to Leo and Olga Kunnuk of Seward. Herbert spent a majority of his life working hard as a commercial fisherman in the Bering Sea until he became ill with COPD and lung disease and was forced to retire. Herbert loved the outdoors and specifically loved the ocean and the hard and enduring work he spoke of with great pride. Herbert loved spending time with his family and grandchildren. He loved to dance.

“Boss was always known as the joker of the family, making you smile when you were down.”

Herbert met his wife Charlene during his high school years and later married on Feb. 19, 1981 and had two beautiful children, Alanna and Roy, and four grandchildren. He then made his home in Wasilla, Alaska.

Herbert was preceded in death by his mother, Olga, and brother, Roy. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Charlene; daughter, Alanna and son-in-law Samuel Alvarenga; son, Roy; father, Leo Kunnuk Sr. of Seward; sisters, Leona, Debbie and Irene; half- sister, Helen; brothers, Leo Jr. and Steven; grandchildren, Brian, Draiden, Juvenal, and Isaiah; nieces, Eddorah, Amanda, Tiffanie, Teresa, Frances, and Natasha; nephews, Raymond, Michael John, Zac, and Robert; and great nieces and nephews. Herbert will be greatly missed by many and his wishes were to not grieve for his loss but to celebrate his life.

Condolences may be addressed to P.O. Box 874845, Wasilla, AK 99687.