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BORN
1947
DIED
2017
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Desa Jacobsson Obituary
A longtime Alaska activist, Desa championed rights for Alaska Native people, women and children, and those without representation. She spent her life ensuring the rights of victims were heard.
In 1998 and 2002, Desa campaigned for governor of Alaska under the Green Party on a platform of increasing in-state hiring, furthering the state's recognition of tribal sovereignty and improving rural sanitation and clean water systems into villages. Desa's overarching issue before, during and after her campaign was subsistence. ""Subsistence is about more than food. It provides the foundation for family relationships. It is about our survival as a people.""
Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., with a reception following at 11 a.m., on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2017, at Janssen's Evergreen Memorial Chapel, 737 E Street in Anchorage.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Willard Jr.; her son, Donovan Austin; and her daughter, Mary Jacobsson (Attla). Desa is survived by her daughters, Leslie Marie Jacobsson, Teresa Jacobsson and Tracy Craig; her grandson, Christopher Behrens; granddaughters, Nicole, Kara Behrens and Jennifer Turner; and great-grandchildren, Mickey, Natalie and Madelyn.
Arrangements are with Janssen's Evergreen Memorial Chapel.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Desa Jacobsson
September 21, 2024
My dear friend Desa was also an artist. She painted a beautiful portrait of Elizabeth Peratrovich, Tlingit civil rights leader, displayed in Juneau at the Elizabeth Peratrovich Hall. Ancestor Desa left her mark in our hearts too.
Wanda Culp
September 21, 2023
I continue to miss your wit and wisdom, dear friend "Madam Governor", and always your "1st Friend". I still use the old ashtray your momma beaded and think of you daily.
Melissa Rodriguez
October 6, 2017
Oh dear Auntie Shrew, we will miss you dearly. Am thankful for the time we had, the long talks, the stories and mostly, all of the laughs. Your voice will forever be in my heart and mind.
You're with your honey now, I know you are smiling from ear to ear!!!
Brenda Slone Arney
October 4, 2017
Desa's parents and mine were good friends. I went to school with Desa and her sister June in Anchorage. Although we've lost touch over the years, my thoughts of them have brought back many good memories of the Jacobsson family, especially the fun times with Desa and June. Desa was a strong individual and I admire her for standing up for what she believed in, and fighting/advocating for others. My condolences to her family.
Joanne Blackburn
October 2, 2017
An amazing woman who fearlessly said the things most difficult to say. We will all miss her. We thank her in spirit for her energy for a more just Alaska. RIP. Wishing comfort to her dear ones.
Karen Carpenter
September 29, 2017
She was one in a million. A great teacher, mentor and a friend to many in Dillingham, the staff she worked with here and myself, I will hold her memory close to my heart forever.
Karen Standifer
September 27, 2017
Theresa so sorry to read that your mom passed. Away. Just no i am thinking of you. I pray jesus give you and family peace that surpasses all your understanding....
S. Gutierrez
September 27, 2017
Desa was a strong beautiful lady. Thank you for all you did for Alaskan Natives. Rest in Peace, you will be missed.
Wanda J Culp
September 27, 2017
Desa is my Dear Friend who I called "Madam Governor" and she called me "1st Friend". May her Spirit continue to shine with the strong energy she created around her and leaves with us.
September 27, 2017
My sincere condolences. Find comfort in the God who is close to the brokenhearted.
Kimberly Ansaknok
September 26, 2017
44 years ago I was introduced to Mildred when she came to Fort Yukon for a visit. 33 years ago I met Theresa and Tracy while we students at Chemawa, found out we were cousins while talking with Theresa. 25 years ago I met Desa when she came to our family reunion in Fort Yukon. Happy memories of all these wonderful ladies. Thoughts and prayers to extended family today as I wear the earrings Desa gave to me during the reunion.
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Janssen's Evergreen Memorial Chapel - Anchorage737 E Street, Anchorage, AK 99501
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