Patrick N. Norman

Patrick N. Norman, 67, a beloved husband, father, uppa, unga, and esteemed leader in the Chugach Region of Alaska, passed away surrounded by his family on January 1, 2025, in Anchorage, Alaska.
Patrick was born in Homer, Alaska to Marvin Norman and Dorothy (Norman) Moonin. He lived a life dedicated to his family and the Alaska Native community. He is survived by his devoted wife Francis Norman; children Tasha McPherson (Jose), Vanessa Norman and Storman Norman (Hanna); grandchildren Dominik Norman, Isaiah McPherson, Storman P. Norman, and Aria Norman (Storman and Aria's mom, Nathania Norman); siblings Marlene "Girlie" Norman, Wayne Norman, Martin Norman, and Randy Norman; and many extended family members. He was preceded in death by his parents Marvin Norman and Dorothy Moonin; stepfather John Moonin; grandson Jordin McPherson; and brother Gordon Norman.
Patrick grew up in Port Graham, Alaska and served the Native Village of Port Graham for over four decades with the last 23 years as the Tribal Chief ("Tuyuq"). This was alongside a tenure on various boards including the Port Graham Corporation, Chugachmiut, Chugach Regional Resources Commission (40 years), and North Pacific Rim Housing Authority Board (34 years). His commitment extended beyond the Chugach Region through his active participation on the Alaska Federation of Natives Board of Directors and the Alaska Sea Otter & Steller Sea Lion Commission. Patrick was known as a fierce advocate for subsistence hunting and fishing rights, and in 2024, he was awarded the Alaska Federation of Native's "Katie John Hunter-Fisher Award" for his dedication to preserving and protecting Alaska Native subsistence rights.
Patrick's love for his community was matched only by his passion for fishing-he was a commercial salmon and crab fisherman as a young man, and he later found joy in watching the show, "Deadliest Catch." Hunting and fishing were activities he deeply cherished and shared with his children and grandchildren. Many wonderful days were spent together on the Port Graham Bay where they would explore the beaches at low tide or fish side-by-side while sharing stories that will forever echo in their hearts. He took great pride in keeping Francis busy with processing their catches at home for their family. This was a testament to their decades of teamwork and as partners in life.
As we remember Patrick today, and always, we celebrate not just what he accomplished but also how profoundly he loved those around him. He fiercely protected our traditions while imparting future generations with wisdom originating from those that came before him and from his experiences rooted within this land we call home. His legacy extends beyond all of his professional achievements and the titles he held-it lies within every heart he touched with kindness throughout his life.
The funeral service will be held in Port Graham, Alaska at the Church of the First Born on January 9, 2025. A memorial gathering will be held in Anchorage, Alaska on February 1, 2025 at 1:00pm at Alaska Native Heritage Center. Pallbearers: Storman W. Norman, Storman P. Norman, Dominik Norman, Isaiah McPherson, Wayne Norman, Martin Norman, and Randy Norman.