Orville Frank Lamson

Jun 18, 1947 -

Apr 6, 2025

Orville Frank Lamson, age 77, of Big Lake, Alaska, passed away peacefully on Apr. 6, 2025. Born June 18, 1947, in Colorado, Orville lived a life defined by service, dedication, and deep devotion to family.

In the wake of the 1964 Alaska earthquake, Orville's father, Earl I, and Nancy's father—both bricklayers—moved their families to Alaska to help with the rebuilding efforts. Both families packed up their cars and made the long, rugged journey up the Alcan Highway. It was during that journey that Orville met the love of his life, Nancy.

The two married as teenagers and built a remarkable 58-year marriage, raising a family deeply rooted in the Last Frontier, building a life rooted in love and resilience.

Orville served in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1973 as an electronics technician. After his military service, Orville worked for the Federal Aviation Administration and later for the Federal Forest Service. His work played a vital role in supporting the safety and communication of forest rangers in the rugged Chugach Mountain Range. He retired in 2003, after decades of civil service with the Federal Government. In retirement, Orville embraced community and friendship. He enjoyed competitive shooting with his brother Lewis and friends at the Birchwood Shooting Range. He was lovingly known as "Mr. Orville" while driving a school bus for preschoolers in the CCS Early Learning Head Start program in Wasilla. He also drove local seniors to the Wasilla Area Seniors, Inc. lunch program, always happy to lend a hand and a kind word.

Above all, Orville's greatest joy and purpose in life was his family. He and Nancy raised one daughter, Nancie Ann, and were blessed with four grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren—all born and raised in Alaska, a place that had become their true home.

Orville was preceded in death by his parents, Bernice and Earl I; and his brothers, Earl II and James. He is survived by his beloved wife Nancy; daughter, Nancie Ann (Derrick); brother, Lewis (Patricia); sister-in-law, Gail; grandchildren, Sarah Erickson (J.R.), Kristopher Erickson (Tarynne), Kyli Reeder (Jamal), Marquanne Kareta (Joseph); and great-grandchildren, Bailey, Bruin, Boone, Chloe, Kahreem, Jahkari, and Juniper.

No funeral is planned. Orville's life will be remembered and honored in the hearts of those who loved him. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Wasilla Area Seniors Inc. or CCS Early Learning in Orville's memory.