Laura M. Warrell

Laura M. Warrell, of Eagle River Alaska, entered into eternal rest on July 22, 2024, surrounded by family at her home. Born August 28, 1948, in Johnstown, PA, Laura was the second of three children. She is preceded in death by her parents, John and Victoria Krupa, her sister-in-law, Patricia Krupa, and her beloved husband of 39 years, James F. Warrell. Laura is survived by her son Chris Warrell (Erin) of St. Augustine, FL, her daughter Janelle DeWitt (Scott) of Sarasota, FL; grandchildren Kaitlyn and Keegan Warrell, James Shadowens, Victoria Williams and Bridge Baxter; her older brother John Krupa of Johnstown, PA, and her younger sister, Patty Odenthal (Butch) of Penn Run, PA. Laura is also survived by her niece Kelly McDonald, nephew Sean McDonald (Taylor), and two great nieces Palmer and Piper McDonald, all of Pennsylvania, and many cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends.
After graduating from Conomaugh Township High School in 1966, Laura pursued a career with the Federal Aviation Administration, working first in Washington, D.C. as an administrative assistant. Her career with the FAA spanned more than 30 years during which time she received numerous accolades for her loyalty and dedication to the administration.
Laura married the love of her life, Jim Warrell, in May of 1977 and welcomed two children, Janell and Chris, in 1978 and 1980. The family resided in Delaware until Jim's Air Force assignment brought them to Alaska in 1986.
Alaska quickly became home to Laura and her immediate family; she enjoyed gardening and trips to the fish wheel. Laura cherished when her friends and family would visit and she took great pride in showing off the beautiful sights of her home state. Laura also enjoyed cooking and baking, and was known for her love of and skill at crafting. In her early days in Alaska, you could always find Laura at craft shows.
Above all else, Laura loved her family. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother and grandmother. Laura's friends and family will miss her generous spirit, her gentle guidance and her infectious laugh.
A funeral mass will be held at St. Andrew Catholic Church on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at 11 a.m., followed by a reception at Laura's home. Laura will be inurned with her husband, Jim Warrell, at the National Cemetery on the base of Fort Richardson on Monday, July 29, 2024, at 1p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.