SigWien Aanaġulaaq Quwailak Omiak

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of SigWien Aanaġulaaq Quwailak Omiak, a cherished lifelong resident of Teller.
SigWien passed away peacefully at home on July 12, 2025, at the age of 82.
He was born on April 5, 1943, on Little Diomede Island to Robert ‘Bob’ and Susie Omiak.
In 1957, Bob and Susie moved their family to Teller, where SigWien would spend the rest of his life grounded in community and tradition.
SigWien was a respected Elder, recognized by the Teller Native Corporation and Bering Straits Native Corporation. He dedicated much of his life to preserving and sharing Inupiaq culture.
He worked at Teller School, where he taught ivory carving and traditional Eskimo dancing. Known lovingly as “Uppa,” “Papa,” and “Uncle” by many, SigWien proudly taught dance to dozens, if not hundreds, of youth and traveled throughout Alaska with the Teller Dance Group.
His love for cultural traditions touched many lives and will continue to inspire future generations.
He is survived by his nieces and nephews: Andrew Milligrock, Geri Hoogendorn, Helen Iyapana, Darlene Milligrock, Norman Menadelook, Susan Omiak, Robert Omiak, Edwina Omiak, Patrick Omiak Jr., Mageline Omiak, Ronald Ozenna Sr., Roger Ozenna, Joseph Ozenna, Diana Katongan, Lorraine Ozenna, and Bill Topsekok. He is also survived by his stepchildren Raymond Kulik Kulikowski and Brian Kulik, as well as many cousins and dear friends who loved and respected him.
He was preceded in death by his parents Robert and Susie Omiak; brothers James, Patrick, Paul, Harry, and Henry; sisters Annie Iyapana, Theresa Soolook, Ruth Milligrock, Cecilia Topsekok, Sophie Maddux, Margie Lee, and Beatrice Denny; and his wife Maria Kulikowski-Koezuna Omiak.
A memorial service will be held at the Nome Catholic Church on Saturday, July 19, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., followed by a potluck and Eskimo dance. Please bring a dish to share.
Due to the upcoming Teller Road closure during the week of July 21, 2025, the details for the funeral service in Teller are still being finalized. Additional information will be shared as soon as it becomes available.