It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Anna Marie Westdahl, age 73, on April 20, 2025, in Anchorage, Alaska.
Anna bravely battled esophageal cancer for three years, facing each challenge with incredible strength, grace, and determination. Though cancer ultimately took her life, it never dimmed her spirit or her will to keep fighting.
Born on March 2, 1952, Anna was the loving wife of the late Edward Bartnicki. She was raised in Bethel, Alaska, the daughter of John and Julia Westdahl. Anna attended Kilbuck School, graduating in 1970, and went on to continue her education at the University of Fairbanks. After her studies, she returned home to Bethel to pursue her passion as an artist gifted in drawing, soapstone carving, and intricate beadwork.
Beyond her artistic talents, Anna had a true love for travel and adventure. Whether exploring the beauty of Alaska or traveling beyond, she was always ready to discover new places and experiences. And when she wasn’t traveling, you could often find her walking around the town of Bethel with a big smile on her face. She was also a wonderful cook and baker of many things but her homemade pies, especially her perfect, flaky pie crust, were truly unmatched and will be remembered fondly by all who were lucky enough to enjoy them.
Anna was preceded in death by her parents, John and Julia Westdahl, and her husband, Ed Bartnicki. She is survived by her five children: Merrill Westdahl, Thomas Eufemio, Drew Michael, David Michael, and Tanya Nickoli, as well as her brother, Norman Westdahl, and sister, Cheryl Alexie. She was also a proud grandmother to eight grandchildren: Andre Westdahl, Merrill Westdahl Jr., Riley Westdahl, Ashley Eufemio, Rebecca Eufemio, Rocco Eufemio, Isaiah Nickoli, and Aurora Nickoli-Stern.
A Special Thank You: The family extends heartfelt gratitude to ONC, CITC, BNC, Cross Makers, Grave Diggers, The Moravian Church, the doctors, nurses, and staff at Alaska Native Medical Center, Legacy Funeral Homes, Carel Assisted Living Home, and so many others who supported Anna and our family during this time.
Anna’s warmth, creativity, and free spirit touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be deeply missed, but her memory will forever live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all those whose lives she so beautifully touched.
May she rest peacefully, reunited with her loved ones who have gone before her.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
— 2 Timothy 4:7
