Mae Tischer

Long time Alaskan Mae Tischer, 89, passed away at the Anchorage Pioneer Home. She served Alaska for over a half century. In 1960, Mae left her birthplace in Minnesota and headed for Alaska with her five children. She met her future husband, "Tisch" Tischer, on the Alcan Highway.
In 1962, the Tischer family homesteaded on Goose Creek for three years where they became an integral part of the homestead community. The family cleared acreage, built onto an existing cabin, hunted, drew water from Goose Creek, grew a thriving garden and canned food.
In 1965, Mae acknowledged that her older children needed to attend a high school, so the family moved to Anchorage.
Mae's husband died in a car accident in 1972. She took solace by singing with the Sweet Adeline's, where she met a woman whose son had muscular dystrophy. Mae became the first District Director for the Alaska Muscular Dystrophy Association in Anchorage. She served as Director for 15 years.
Mae served in the House of Representatives from 1983-1984.
Mae returned to her homestead and became President of the Susitna Seniors Association for 10 years, where she helped build a thriving community.
In 2003, Mae received a Legislative Citation from the State of Alaska commemorating her lifetime of service to Alaska. Her favorite award was granted by her children: "World's Best Mother."
Mae Tischer was a woman of common sense, industry and integrity. Alaska has lost a sterling citizen.
She is survived by her six children, Mark Tischer of Peru, Brad Tischer, Kathleen Tischer, Becky Tischer, Dan Tischer of Anchorage, and Julie Hnilicka of Fairbanks, Alaska; and her many grandchildren. To celebrate Mae's life, a memorial will be held at the Anchorage Pioneer Home, 923 West 11th Avenue, on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2018, at 2 p.m., followed by a potluck gathering. Please join us. Visit www.alaskanfuneral.com to leave online condolences.