Akati Kalugin

May 7, 1943 – March 3, 2018

Longtime local resident Akati Kalugin died Friday, March 30, at Homer’s Long Term Care facility.

He ended his fight with cancer, the family wrote.

Known affectionately to many as “The Mad Russian,” Akati was a gentle soul hidden under a gruff manner and blunt speech. He loved cats, gardening and fishing, DIY-projects and telling stories.

Akati worked as an independent carpenter, plumber, electrician, mechanic and general handyman from Kasilof to East End Road. He often stepped in to help disabled, elderly, and others in difficult circumstances without thought of payment or recognition, which twice earned him the Anchor Point Man of the Year Award. Many people received the help they needed to re-start their lives with Akati’s quiet wisdom and generosity.

His niece, Anna White, said of him, “This man was there for all of us whenever we called. He just came. He never asked questions. He just showed up. I will miss your sweet smile and your tender loving eyes.”

He is preceded in death by his parents and three children.

He is survived by his longtime sweetheart, Josephine Rice; step-daughters Naomi Stacy, Megan Stacy, Jessica Gaynor and Elfrina Lubrin; many fellow Friends of Bill W.; and hundreds of relatives in Old Believer communities in the Russian Far East, Australia, Canada and Brazil, as well as in Oregon and throughout Alaska.

If desired, memorial donations may be made to the Anchor Point Senior Center, where Akati was an active life member.

A secular Celebration of Life potluck will be held from 4-6 p.m. on April 21 at the Anchor Point Senior Center. All who knew Akati are invited to come, reminisce and share their favorite Akati Stories.