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Michael Leahy Obituary
A service will be at 3 p.m. Thursday at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church.
Mr. Leahy was born Nov. 3, 1940, in Mason City, Wash., to Patrick and Clara Leahy. He graduated from Grand Coulee High School in 1958. He married Marilyn Mroz on Nov. 25, 1981, in Seattle.
Joe came to Alaska in 1976 while serving in the Coast Guard as chief journalist. After his discharge he worked as the director of the Juneau Mining Museum, then as the director of the Juneau Centennial Museum. In 1985, Joe and Marilyn moved to Valdez where Joe served as the executive director of the Valdez Museum and Historical Archive.
Upon retiring from that position, he returned to Juneau for four years at the request of Hoonah Heritage Foundation, serving as the development director of the foundation's proposed Heritage Center and museum.
Joe's love of people led him to serve on numerous boards and associations such as Valdez United Way, Copper Valley Electric Association, the State Parks Commission, the Alaska Historical Society and the Museums Alaska Association. He was the unofficial town greeter for Valdez, prowling the docks, grocery store and post office and regaling visitors and residents alike with tidbits of history and a gentle wit.
His family wrote: "Joe's greatest enthusiasm was for his family." He was astounded and delighted at the birth of his triplets Patrick, Elise and Christopher, and then again with his bonus child, Marissa.
In retirement Joe was an avid and talented photographer, loved to fish and was an enthusiastic rower.
Joe is survived by his wife Marilyn; sons Patrick and Christopher; daughters, Elise and Marissa; brother and sister-in-law, Bill and Judy; and brother Gary.
Arrangements were entrusted to Anchorage Funeral Home.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Leahy
Geoff Bleakley
December 18, 2008
To the Leahy Family:
I'm so sorry to learn of Joe's death. He was a valued colleague who made valued and lasting contributions to Alaska's historical community. It won't be forgotten. My sincere sympathies.
Steve Henrikson
December 17, 2008
Joe will be remembered at the Alaska State Museum for his passionate dedication to the history and cultures of Alaska. At least three museums in Alaska are the recipient of three lighthouse lenses that he recovered and preserved. He will also be remembered for his pioneering work in the museum field in Alaska, and as a founder of the professional organization, Museums Alaska. Our deepest condolences to his family and friends--thank you for sharing him with us.
Marlene and Cliff Johnson
December 14, 2008
To The Leahy Family,
I am sorry to learn of Joe's passing. I enjoyed working with him at Huna Heritage Foundation, he was very dedicated and knowledgable. My Condolences to all of you.
Mark and Gloria Hiratsuka
December 12, 2008
Marilyn, Christopher, Patrick, Elise and Marissa: My family and I were saddened to hear of your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you now. So many persons left lasting impressions on me during my six years in Valdez; the Leahy Family certainly has a special place in my memories; Marilyn and Joe were such a positive support to our whole school. I will forever be grateful for the memories we share. God bless you all now and forevermore. You are being remembered affectionately.
Rose Arvidson
December 11, 2008
Marilyn,
I am greatly saddened upon learning of Joe's passing today. I have great memories of history ( Cordova lighthouse lens), long talks and remembering him trying to keep up with the triplets as he gave you a break so long ago. I have the print of the two swans above my desk. He is flying with them now at peace. My best to you Marilyn and my thoughts. Rose Arvidson
Timothy Lopez
December 11, 2008
Sorry to hear of Joe's passing, he was great guy. Joe got me interested in the success of the Valdez museum many years ago. I think it is safe to say that the Valdez museum benefitted greatly from the efforts of Joe Leahy. No one worked harder than Joe did to develop one of best small town museum in the country. My sympathies to Marilyn and kids.
Pat Roppel
December 10, 2008
Marilyn,
I was saddened to find Joe's obituary this morning in the Anchorage newspaper. He is definitely a loss to the historical community. May he rest in peace.
William Hanable
December 10, 2008
Marilyn,
I am so sorry to learn of Joe's death. He was a valued friend who was helpful in so many ways. My sincerest sympathies to you and your children.
Bill
Carrie Pasewalk
December 10, 2008
Marilyn and Family - My heartfelt condolences at the loss of Joe. May God comfort and guide you during this difficult time and let your memories keep his spirit alive.
Carrie (Doughman) Pasewalk
Verna lopez
December 10, 2008
Marilyn, So very sorry to learn of your loss. You and children are in my prayers.
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