Adrienne Tuccillo

Adrienne Giulianna Tuccillo was born in Seattle June 12, 1997, then returned to Petersburg, Alaska. She was a full on Alaska girl. Her first Polar Dip (in the ocean on New Year's Day) was at the age of four. She loved camping with her dad, cooking with her mom, and spending time with her friends. She excelled at sports and dance, and loved performing. In Anchorage she attended Goldenview Middle School and South Anchorage High School.

"Little A" drew others to her. They remarked on her beautiful smile, her kindness, and her sensitivity to others. She adored her mother and sister. Even as a teenager she loved to cuddle with her mom. Her parents were often told, "Everybody loves Adrienne." And they were right to. She grabbed the hearts of many.

The youngest in her family, Adrienne strove to keep up and succeeded. She was a competitive swimmer, earning school, regional, and state records, and as a wrestler earning women's state championships and tournament victories. She was passionate about the WWE (TV wrestling). Last year she saw Randy Orton perform. He shook her hand, which she vowed to never wash again.

Adrienne loved cooking and dreamed of being a chef. Her favorite dishes to make were cupcakes, cookies and the special soup she and her dad created.

Adrienne persevered. School wasn't her favorite but she worked hard and earned As and Bs in honor classes. She was excited to be a Girl Scout Camp leader. Faced with challenges she would first declare defeat, then buckle down and figure it out by sheer force of will.

Sometimes Adrienne's feelings were so intense she told tall tales to explain them. She took these challenges on like any sports opponent. They never defeated her. Adrienne was developing into an amazing young woman who knew who she was and what she wanted. Last week she told her family, "My awesomeness covers up all my dorkiness." And she was right. She was totally awesome.

She died unexpectedly at home on March 7, 2013. She is mourned by her parents Millie and Mark Tuccillo; her sister Marlana; grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends and teammates. Many said, "She really made me smile." Kind and gentle, she was always first to be a helper. Many lives are richer and the world is a better place as a result of her short stay.

A viewing will be held on Monday, March 11th 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and a memorial service Tuesday at 4 p.m. at Amazing Grace Lutheran Church.

Arrangements are with Janssen's Evergreen Memorial Chapel; to view the online memorial and sign the guestbook visit www.janssenfuneralhomes.com.