Kelsey Ivanna "Aataq" Larson

It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for her life that we announce the passing of Kelsey Ivanna "Aataq" Larson, who left this world on August 27, 2026, surrounded by her loving family at the Alaska Native Medical Center. Born on December 31, 1991, in Anchorage, Alaska, Kelsey was a beacon of warmth and joy to all who knew her. She was a beloved daughter, mother, sister, and friend, whose presence will be deeply missed. Kelsey was the cherished daughter of Jimmy and Sophia Larson. She grew up in the embrace of a large and loving family and was predeceased by her older brother Daris "Boom" Larson, her younger sister Naomi Larson, and her grandparents Calvin and Sophie Evan Coolidge, as well as Oscar and Lydia Aluskak Larson. Kelsey leaves behind her parents, her precious children McKinley, Karlelle, Emory, Norma aka Chiquita Sophie, and Hugo, her siblings Joni, Lyni, and Christopher, and her nieces and nephews, Jaxon, Brooke, Daris Jr, JoKiara, and Asher. Her extended family includes numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins who will forever hold her in their hearts. Kelsey was a bright student, attending ATMS school in Nunapitchuk and MEHS in Sitka. She earned her GED in Bethel and completed her CNA training in Anchorage, a testament to her dedication and resilience. She found her calling in caring for others, working as a Certified Nursing Assistant at the Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage and holding various positions at YKHC in Bethel. Her compassionate care for others was a reflection of her gentle soul. A devoted member of the Moravian Church in Nunapitchuk, Kelsey was a woman of faith and kindness. Her love for nature was profound; she found joy in canoeing, boating, gathering berries and edible plants, and ice fishing. Kelsey had a talent for sewing and crocheting gifts, capturing nature’s beauty through photography, and baking delightful treats. She cherished every moment spent with her nieces and nephews, sharing her hobbies and the joy of learning with them. Her family describes Kelsey as a unique and humorous individual who often brought laughter without even trying. Her love for reading and learning was matched only by the love she had for the people around her. A service celebrating Kelsey’s life will take place at the Nunapitch Moravian Church in Nunapitchuk, AK. The family expresses profound gratitude to the emergency workers, the medical teams at Alaska Regional and ANMC CCU, and the Anchorage-based family and friends who offered unwavering support during Kelsey’s final days. Special thanks are extended to Nan Juli, Grace Komak, Debbie Coolidge, and all those who contributed in ways both seen and unseen. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations to a charity of your choice in honor of Kelsey’s generous spirit. Though we mourn her loss, we celebrate Kelsey’s life and the indelible mark she has left on our hearts. Her spirit will continue to guide us, and her memory will be cherished forever.