Obituary

Michelle Marie Vlasoff was a very generous person who always gave more than she took. She was always willing to help others and she never gave up on those that she loved. She had a wonderful imagination and an appreciation for life that inspired others around her. She was quick to laugh and honest with her love.

From the time she was born on February 14, 1981, "Bean" showed a deep concern for others. She was a giving and caring individual, ethical and full of integrity and warmth. "Bean" came into this world at Alaska Native Medical Center in Anchorage, Alaska; the first baby to be born that Valentine's Day at the Native hospital. Her parents were Ken and Laurinda Vlasoff. "Bean" was raised in The Native Village of Tatitlek, Alaska.

Michelle was a peacemaker. She was often the glue to hold friends together and she promoted harmony with her siblings. She had two older brothers, Ernie and Travis, as well as an older sister, JoAnn, and a younger brother, Daniel. "Bean" was something of the family diplomat. She helped to settle problems and conflicts and kept the family running smoothly.

As a young girl, "Bean" played well with other children. She was mild tempered, quiet, and happy. She was an independent person who had a vivid imagination. "Bean" was an active child and she enjoyed: biking, exploring tide pools, and berry picking. She was gifted in music and enjoyed playing the clarinet, as well as singing. In her spare time she liked to keep pets and was known for her ability to create friendships with animals. As an avid outdoor enthusiast, Michelle would participate in the annual subsistence activities of her tribe. "Bean's" memorable achievements included graduating high school early and surviving two left feet.

A good student who was enthusiastic about learning, "Bean" was considered by many to be a high achiever. She graduated from Tatitlek Community High School in 1998. Her favorite class was music. During high school, she traveled through Europe twice and participated in the Alaska Native Youth Olympics.

Able to maintain a positive focus on the potential good to be found in others, "Bean" was always ready with solid advice and guidance to offer her group of friends. Those who really knew "Bean", would also appreciate her direct nature. Michelle enjoyed a small but solid group of true friends and because of her ability to read people, she had an uncanny knack for knowing when a friend needed help. While growing up, one of her best friend was Molly Moore. Later in life, she became friends with Angela Totemoff and Kelly Rogers.

Michelle was known for her ability to manage many projects. She was a perfectionist in the office who worked hard at all times. She was known for helping others to reach their highest potential. She possessed excellent insight and a strong ability to meet schedules. She was an innovator who worked well independently, but was also known for her ability to bring synergy to group activities. Her primary occupation was administration and office management. She was employed for eight years with Shareholder Services at The Tatitlek Corporation.

As an imaginative and creative person, "Bean" had a love of science fiction and fantasy stories. She enjoyed her leisure time by taking part in mountain biking, camping, and boating with her brother, Travis. Her favorite pursuits were subsistence activities and Alaska Native crafts. Michelle was extremely independent but also known for her willingness to share.

"Bean" possessed strong skills in long-range planning and project completion, a quality that positively influenced her travel and vacation planning. Her favorite trip was a visit to a certain secluded turtle beach on the big island of Hawaii. Michelle had a love of adventure, especially travel. She was always looking forward to the next event.

Michelle was a lover of animals and cherished her pets. One of her best friends was Bucky, a 7lb Chihuahua with 10lb of attitude who she kept for 13 years. She also adored the pets of other family members and believed in kindness toward animals.

"Bean" passed away on November 6, 2017 at home in Anchorage, Alaska. "Bean" fought a very brave battle against RA and immune dysfunction. She is survived by her parents Ken and Laurinda, her brothers Ernie, Travis, and Daniel, as well as her sister JoAnn. Services were held at Legacy Funeral Home. "Bean" was laid to rest in Anchorage Municipal Cemetary Columbariam Wall.

Though she could be a private person at times, "Bean" was always able and willing to give of herself. She was so in tune with others that she often seemed able to read their minds. She was a person who was highly driven and was guided by her emotions. An insightful, intuitive “teacher”, Michelle Marie Vlasoff shared herself freely and family and friends will remember "Bean" for her gentle, big heart.