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Maria Ann Vandenbos, 68, passed away on Jan. 18, 2017, at the University of Washington after a battle with leukemia. Maria was born on April 5, 1948, in Stuttgart, Germany, to Michael and Anna Huzylak. She immigrated to the United States with her parents in 1949, to San Jose, Calif. She married Floyd Vandenbos on Dec. 18, 1971. They moved to Alaska in November 1976. Maria was never one to back down from a new adventure and was always up to doing and seeing all that comes her way. There was no shortage of her love of camping, fishing and the outdoors. Little Willow Creek is a special spot to her where she caught her first Alaska King salmon. Maria was employed by Providence Extended Care Center and retired as the Manager of Dietary Services, with over 30 years of employment at the facility. She was one of the founding members of the Dietary Managers Association of Alaska and was an active member up until her retirement. She was never one to sit still and stop learning. Maria graduated from Wayland Baptist University in 2003, with a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Education. Maria loved sports of every kind. She was a vivacious cheerleader to her sons and grandchildren on the sidelines of hockey and soccer. You could often find her on the sidelines rooting on the whole team. She was an active member of Saint Anthony's parish and served as a Eucharistic minister and often provided communion to those at Horizon House and those that were homebound. She sponsored several of her grandchildren who became members of the catholic church. She recently became a member of the Catholic Daughters of America. Maria is preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Vandenbos; parents, Michael and Anna Huzylak; and her brother, Raymond Huzylak. She is survived by her brother, Michael Huzylak; sons Brent Vandenbos (Julie) and Michael Vandenbos (Tanya); stepchildren, Emily Vandenbos and Donny Vandenbos; and grandchildren, Stephanie, Adam and Anna, Tyler, Nathan, Andrew and Matthew, and Christopher and Jessica Coleman. She welcomed her first great-grandchild, Alaina Vandenbos, last year. A memorial mass will be held at St. Anthony's Catholic Church on Feb. 9, 2017, at 6 p.m., 825 Klevin Street, Anchorage, AK 99508. A reception will be held downstairs in the parish hall following the mass.
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Maria will always be remembered as a wonderful friend. Miss her smile and let´s get this done aditude.
Paulette monteau
Work
January 30, 2024
Stan Parrish
February 17, 2017
Stan Parrish
February 17, 2017
My condolences To Mike, Tanya, Andrew, Nathan, and Tyler. I met Maria Ann when Nathan and Royce were baptized and confirmed at St. Anthony's. When we were waiting for the boys to get ready we chatted a little bit and it was like I had known her forever. Every time I am at St. Anthony's I have fond memories of that special day and of her after the ceremony telling them they had to ask for cookies and juice politely. May fond and funny memories of your times together help to fill the loss you feel.
Summer Kerr
February 11, 2017
Maria was a very special person. My mother Erena was a patient for many years at Prividence Extended Care. Your mother tok great pride in making each holiday dinner special, not only for the residents, but also the family. A wonderful and caring person. She will be missed. Memory Eternal!
Maria Stowe
February 10, 2017
Although I lost touch, I've thought of your mother often. I knew her at Providence Extended Care Center for 5 years. She was always supportive in various facility programs and uplifting to staff and residents. I will remember you and your mother in my prayers.
Mary Pat DeWitt
February 9, 2017
To Maria's family, I am so very sorry for the loss of your mom. I worked with Maria for quite a long time and she was the person that got me interested in becoming a CDM. She was first my supervisor then my colleague then my friend. She was very proud of her kids and grand kids. She cared for the elderly very kindly. She will be missed by many. Rest in Peace Maria.
February 9, 2017
Even though I only knew Maria a short time after she joined the Catholic Daughters, she will be missed very much.
Edna Resari
February 9, 2017
MAY THE THOUGHT OF KNOWING THAT FRIENDS AND FAMILY SHARE IN YOUR GRIEF BE OF COMFORT TO YOUR FAMILY.PLEASE READ PROV 17:17
KELLEY
February 8, 2017
Maria was a true advocate for the poor and vulnerable, living her beliefs in her daily activities. She was a real friend and fondly adored her family.
Dan Wolf
February 7, 2017
Maria was a friend to many people. She always had a can do additude.,
She loved her family and many friends.
Paulette Monteau
February 6, 2017
Sharing prayers for the family of Maria. Hold on to the many wonderful memories I know you have. I was blessed to work with her during the Nakoyia days....and her spirit made the days positive and always with an eye to keep patient needs first! All the best.
Julia Thorsness
February 6, 2017
I worked with your Mom at PECC for many years and will always remember her caring ways and lovely spirit. She truly was one of the "good ones"!
Carmen Miller, RN
February 6, 2017
To Marias family~ Your mom was a very special person. She touched so many lives simply by being herself. She was always aware of the needs of those around her and stepped up do whatever was needed. My sympathy is with you all in your loss.
Peggy Bergsrud
February 5, 2017
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Ventura Laurio
February 5, 2017
You were a great college and true friend. I will always remember our travels together on the national board. Soar now with the angles and eagles my friend.
Debbie Tilley
February 5, 2017
You will be missed Maria.
Linda Kiggins
February 5, 2017
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