William "Bill" E. Brokaw

Nov 13, 1935 -

Jul 22, 2025

William E. "Bill" Brokaw, beloved Alaskan, devoted husband, father and Papa, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2025, at the Alaska Veterans & Pioneers Home in Palmer. He was 89.

Born in Lansing, Mich., Bill first experienced Alaska while serving at Fort Richardson with the U.S. Army. Captivated by the wild beauty, he vowed to return. After his service, he met his future wife, Pat, and together drove a 1950 Cadillac hearse up the Alaska Highway to start a new life.

Bill and Pat settled in the Anchorage Hillside, raising their family on "Our Road." His love for Alaska's outdoors led to countless family adventures—fishing, skiing and exploring the wilderness he cherished.

A longtime member of First American Baptist Church, Bill joined during his Army years and remained deeply committed throughout his life.

He experienced the 1964 earthquake with Pat and their son Dan, even venturing downtown afterward to see the damage firsthand.

Bill worked at Rexall and Bert Drugs, the Anchorage Airport Gift Shop, The Book Cache and retired from FedEx. He enjoyed a slower pace in retirement but stayed active and curious.

Basketball was a lifelong passion. He played in high school, the military, church leagues and especially the Anchorage City League with Barrett's Office Supply—forming friendships that spanned decades and communities across Alaska.

Bill is survived by his children, Daniel Brokaw (Erin Bashaw) and Susan Berger (Michael); granddaughters, Samantha and Cassidy; siblings, Dell Brokaw (Dee), Linda Hamilton and Sharon Jackson (Fred); and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wives, Pat and Patricia A. Brokaw.

Bill's ashes will be scattered at his favorite fishing spot at Upper Bonnie Lake.

Join us for a Pie and Ice Cream Celebration of Life on Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025, at 5-8 p.m. at the Alaska Zoo, Gateway Hall, 4731 O'Malley Road in Anchorage.