John Harvey Wieler

1937-2023

John Harvey Wieler died peacefully at home with his wife and his son at his side on February 27, 2023.

Harvey loved Alaska. With his mother’s permission he joined the U.S. Marine Corps at age 17. During his three-year commitment he excelled in marksmanship and electronics. He returned to Alaska after his honorable discharge and his Marine Corps training earned him a slot with the White Alice Communications System as a remote site technician.

However, an interest in flying and the GI bill launched a new career in aviation. He flew researchers on and off Fletcher’s Ice Island (T3), an iceberg used as a drifting scientific station in the Arctic. He was flying D-C 3’s in Libya when Gaddafi took over the country. He flew for a number of Interior and Western Alaska air carriers. For one he was the first pilot in years to get all the Christmas packages delivered before Christmas Day. He went on to fly C-130 Hercules aircraft on the North Slope and throughout Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

When he found his “perfect location” outside Delta Junction it became the base for his single pilot operation for years. He served outdoor enthusiasts, hunters, researchers, farmers, miners, mountain climbers, skiers, tourists and the local community.

Harvey lived in the moment. He loved the doing of life, not watching. He was spontaneous, fun, and generous. He was tough and he was a straight shooter. He will be missed for his quick wit, infectious laugh, captivating stories of his adventures, twinkling gorgeous blue eyes, and his kindness to many a dog.

He is survived by Karen Cedzo, his wife of almost 48 years, his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren; one brother, sisters, sister-in-law, nephews, nieces, and cousins.

He was preceded in death by three brothers, a beloved aunt and favorite cousin.

There will be no service. In lieu of flowers, take his advice, “Get out and do something you enjoy.”

 

 

The Nome Nugget

PO Box 610
Nome, Alaska 99762
USA

Phone: (907) 443-5235
Fax: (907) 443-5112

www.nomenugget.net

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