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Senate President Stevens Mourns the Loss of Father Michael Oleksa
KODIAK, AK – Earlier this week, Father Michael Oleksa of the village of Nanwalek passed away from a stroke at the age of 75. Father Oleksa was part of the Russian Orthodox church and a well-known, respected, and beloved figure throughout the Kenai Peninsula and Kodiak Island. He was a cultural ambassador who fostered community unity and sought to preserve Alaska Native culture and education. Senate President Gary Stevens, R-Kodiak, issued the following statement and condolences:
“Father Oleksa was a charismatic leader of our community. His teachings and love of Alaska history will be greatly missed but always remembered. He was a community leader who led with grace and compassion; that legacy shall live on with all of us. He loved Alaska, and he loved his community. My heart goes out to his wife, Xenia, his family, and all those who had the pleasure of knowing him.”
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