Valerie Mackler Obituary

Valerie Mackler passed away peacefully Sept. 15, 2017, at age 91. She was born in New Zealand to parents George and Gladys (Howlett) Russek. She came to the U.S. with her husband, Ray Mackler, and family in the early '60s. They settled in Florscent, Missouri. There she earned a master's degree and taught special needs children. She enjoyed gardening, hunting and fishing with her family.
In the early '80s, she and Ray moved to Fairbanks for their next life adventure and to be near their son, Len. Here, she taught at Denali Elementary school, continued to enjoy hunting, fishing and gardening and discovered a new passion: dog mushing. She was well known for her mushing skills into her late 70s and won many races and awards over the years. Ray was known for his Star Line Sled design. She was an animal lover and fostered many dogs over the years. She always carried dog biscuits in her pockets.
She is survived by three sisters, a brother, and their families in New Zealand, and one very special niece, Jenny; daughter-in-law, Carol Mackler-Teeter; and her husband, John, in Fairbanks. She is preceded in death by her husband, Ray; and son, Len.
At her request, there will be no funeral. Her ashes will be scattered on the flats below her and Ray's home where she ran her beloved dogs for many years.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Daily News-Miner on Sep. 22, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Valerie Mackler

14 Entries

Debra Fitzgerald

September 13, 2024

Gosh, we miss the Macklers as our neighbors. It's so quiet without Val's voice ringing out reprimanding or calling her beloved dogs. The chats with Val and Ray's dry sense of humor were priceless. They are missed.

Terrie Beardsworth

October 2, 2017

Val, Matthew and Terrie, New Zealand, miss you dearly. We loved all the letters we shared over the years. The amazing stories of your life in Alaska, and all the tales about the Huskies. We were thrilled when you came and visited us in New Zealand. Thank you for all your kindness and humor, you will always be an amazing New Zealander and you are in our hearts forever.

Val and Jenny

Debra Fitzgerald

September 29, 2017

Val was an independent, feisty woman with more spirit and drive than most people half her age. Our neighborhood families shared many, many holidays together in the simple fashion we all enjoyed. Val's love for animals was her passion. She was a true animal advocate often speaking out in their defense. Val took amazing care of our dog, Kiska, for years and shed an abundance of tears when he died. Until her last day she expressed her worries about her 2 dogs and who would care for them when she was gone. Now with Val and Ray gone, I look down at their home and feel the huge void that they left behind. I miss our talks and giggles, but pray they both are in a better place for eternity.

Barbara Moore

September 28, 2017

Val was one of a kind person. They broke the mold when she was born. Give a task whether checking you sled bag or checking in your time at a check point she was always very professional. She always had a smile and her orange jacket will be missed at the races. Also her special dog food for the hungry dog contest. I know the dogs will miss it this year at the valley funale. Soar high Val and give ray a hug.

Julie Hedgecoke

September 28, 2017

My daughter and I met Val through the Two Rivers Dog Musher's Assoc. and was very impressed that she would compete in dog races at her age. The Hungry Dog competition was her favorite at the Valley Funally in Two Rivers. She could also sport a bright orange coat with gusto! I recently got to know her better while cleaning her house and always enjoyed swapping stories and showing her pictures of my grandchild. We laughed a lot, talked about politics and football and I'm glad I could help her keep a tidy and clean house. Val you will be missed!

September 27, 2017

I am sorry for your loss. May prayer comfort you.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Pray constantly."

September 25, 2017

Sincere condolences goes out to the Mackler family for your sad loss. May GOD be with the family as you mourn the loss of Valerie.

Rocky DeMers

September 22, 2017

Going to miss seeing Val at a checkpoint at 2 am.

Ken Severin

September 22, 2017

Val was such a wonderful person, although you sure didn't want to be a vendor at the ADMA symposium and try to get special treatment! Everyone had the same rules, and by darn, Val made sure they were followed. And I'll never forget Val's kind words about a story I wrote about a dog I had growing up. Too many memories, all good. So glad I was privileged to know Val and Ray. All my condolences to those who will miss them both.

Colleen Herning

September 22, 2017

Val was a huge inspiration to me in her demonstration of how our 80s can be lively and full of energy and learning. She was my good friend, like a mother and pal all mixed into one person and I will miss her dearly. Colleen Herning

September 20, 2017

I'm sorry for your loss. May the God of all comfort, bring comfort to the Mackler family during these difficult times.
(2 Corin.1:3,4)

September 19, 2017

Very sorry for your loss! I just loved talking to Valerie about all kinds of things. She loved to tease a local Dr. about how well her corn grew as his did not do so great. God bless her and you all! Rhonda Casey

Janice Westlind

September 19, 2017

Val was a true Fairbanks icon. She will be missed by many.

September 19, 2017

May the God of all comfort strengthen the family during this time of deep sorrow. Those who pass on, God keeps in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. My sincerest condolences. (Psalms 116:15)

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