John Dufek

Mar 12, 1964 -

Apr 18, 2020

John Dufek came into the world on March 12, 1964, in Anchorage, Alaska. He had a bold spirit and a love for the outdoors. He enjoyed adventure skiing on Mt Alyeska, kayaking in Portage Valley, water skiing on Rocky Lake, bicycling on roads and glaciers, and fishing on the Kenai Peninsula. He was a motorcycle enthusiast and aficionado of customized bikes.

Girdwood held a special place in John's heart. He grew up playing on the mountain and exploring the valley in all seasons. He eventually moved there as an adult. John remodeled a home at the foot of Mt Alyeska and cherished his service as a fireman on the Girdwood Volunteer Fire Department.

John was a craftsman in both his personal and professional life. He learned construction skills from his dad at an early age and put those skills to use remodeling private residences and commercial spaces. He made beautiful home furnishings and inlaid wooden boxes. John was a master builder of customized RC boats, planes and crawlers, and even a trailblazing snow cat. He innovated new ways to pilot RC vehicles and became the Horizon Hobby ambassador for the state of Alaska.

John was preceded in death by his father Elden, whom he deeply admired; and by his loyal wolf-hybrid, Tyee.

He is survived by his beloved fiancee, Kathy; his mother, Betty; his sister, Penny; his brother-in-law, Tom; his best friend and "little brother," Tim; his best buddies, Darby and Jeff; his remarkable friend, Anne Marie; dozens of friends he made at the Anchorage House of Hobbies; and Danica, his special girl. John was grateful for these people, and also for the healthcare professionals that eased the pain of his cancer and surrounded him with love.

John will be remembered for his prodigious creativity, his capacity for joy, the pleasure he took in sharing his knowledge and expertise, and his courageous 10-year battle with cancer. He lived his life right up until the day he crossed over on April 18, 2020.

John's fiancee Kathy will host a celebration of life when people can safely gather. Please direct condolences and inquiries about the celebration of life to Kathy Dugan on her Facebook page or at P.O. Box 140662, Anchorage, AK 99514.