Russ Lawrence Dossat

Oct 15, 1948 -

June 8, 2020

Longtime Alaska resident Russ Dossat, 71, passed away on June 8, 2020, peacefully at home surrounded by his beloved wife and family in Wasilla, Alaska.

A family viewing was held on June 9, 2020, at 2 p.m., at Legacy Funeral home in Wasilla, before his cremation. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date for family and friends. A funeral with Military Honors, "Honoring Those Who Served," will be scheduled for late summer 2020 for immediate family and friends as well.

Russ was born on Oct. 15, 1948, in Toledo, Ohio, to Sid and Martha Dossat. He graduated in 1967 and joined the United States Air Force in the summer of 1968.

Airman Dossat received several medals for his tour of service during the Vietnam War. In 1970, he was stationed in Alaska. Russ was discharged in July 1972 and remained in the Air Force Reserves until July 1974. Russ met his beloved wife, Ann, in the fall of 1971 and they married on July 14, 1972, just eight days after his official discharge from the Air Force.

In August 1972, Russ began working for DOD-Civil Service on EAFB in a variety of jet engine technician jobs, retiring in January 2004; over 32 years of service. In June 2007, Russ came out of retirement to work for Pratt and Whitney, excited for the opportunity to work on the F119 jet engines that were recently stationed at EAFB. Russ finally enjoyed full-time retirement starting 2010.

Before and during his retirement years, Russ enjoyed fishing, hunting, trapping, exploring Alaska's road system, fundraising, cooking, dart leagues, but most of all, spending time with his beloved wife, children and grandchildren. Those who knew Russ know of his fond love for being on the ocean. Fishing on the Alaska's massive river systems evolved into recreational and commercial fishing in Alaska's massive oceans. His vessels included, Ester D, Marie Lynn and Times Right.

Russ's family wrote: "Russ's love for the outdoors was contagious and he was always willing to help teach and mentor others. His wife, kids and grandkids were the most important people in his life. His great spirit, good outlook and smile drew you in."

He is survived by his wife, Beatrice "Ann" Dossat; his two daughters and sons-n-law, Dawn and Justin Freeman, Mayquelle and Josh Buckley; five grandchildren, Steven Dossat and Theron Freeman and Remington, Hayden and Jaidyn Buckley; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Russ was preceded in death by his parents, Sid and Martha Dossat; brothers, Ron, Ray, Rick, Randy Dossat; and sisters, Rosalie Bennett, Bonnie Kujawa and Barb Taylor.