Julia Dawn Maxwell

In memory of Julia Dawn Maxwell, whose beautiful presence graced our lives for 28 years. Julia passed away on Tuesday, December 19, 2023, surrounded by her family after bravely facing a brief illness. Her enduring strength and the love that surrounded her until the end are a testament to the impact she had on those who knew her.

Born on February 1, 1995, at the old Valley Hospital in Palmer, Alaska, Julia was the youngest of four children. Her family greeted her arrival with much joy and happiness. Julia's free spirit was evident at an early age; she could often be found outside, wandering barefoot and climbing trees. She had a love for animals, scary movies, and ancient civilizations, particularly Egypt. She excelled in academics and graduated as valedictorian from Colony High School in 2013, though she chose not to give a graduation speech.

Following an internship at Conoco Philips, Julia toured Europe on her own, meeting new people and exploring more of the world than anyone else in the family. She attended Harvard University where she pursued her varied interests as an archaeological assistant and programmer at the business school and was a published staff member of the Harvard Crimson newspaper. Ultimately, her heart led her home to Alaska.

After returning home, Julia worked at the Windbreak Café in Wasilla, where she not only managed restaurant operations but developed meaningful friendships with coworkers and her many regular customers. In her free time, Julia loved attending team trivia events with her family and long-term partner Ian, where her sharp mind and competitive nature almost always resulted in a win. She found the most joy in life's simple pleasures: doting on her dogs and goats, cooking, gardening, home improvement projects, thrift store shopping, and spending time at her family's Montana cabin. Most of all, she loved and cared for Ian and her family. Julia was empathetic and compassionate, always concerned with the well-being of others rather than herself. She is greatly missed and remembered every day by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Julia is survived by her loving partner Ian Powell; parents, Gregory and Laurie Maxwell; siblings Tracy (Anthony) Stephens, Nathan (Emily) Maxwell, and Emily Maxwell; nephews Maddox and Hank Stephens and niece Ariel Stephens; along with many aunts, uncles and cousins. Julia also leaves behind her precious dogs, Meeko and Nessie; her goats, Beezle and Black Phillip; and too many close friends to name. Julia was preceded in death by her grandparents; Haskell and Edvern Maxwell, and Charlie and Lynn Gray.

The family sincerely thanks everyone for the outpouring of love and prayers, and their generosity. Details on a celebration of life will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Julia's name may be made to the Mat-Su Animal Shelter.