Joann Pitka, 1953 – 2022
Photo courtesy of Crystal Killian
Joann Rae Stroud Pitka, 69, of Copper Center, passed into the arms of her Savior on July 16, 2022.
Joann was born in Fairbanks to Rayford and Sadie Mary Stroud. Her family lived in Cantwell and Fairbanks. When her parents left the area Joann remained in Alaska. She went to school in Cantwell and for a short time in Montana at about age 16. She then returned to graduate from Lathrop High School in Fairbanks in 1971.
Joann worked as a long-distance telephone operator and public telegraph operator for RCA/Alascom for ten years in Fairbanks. Joann lived in Northway and worked as the store manager for a year, before moving to the Copper Center area in 1988. There, she worked in various positions for Copper River Native Association, AmeriCorps, Ahtna Construction, and Tazlina Trading Post. She remained in the Copper Basin area until her death.
Joann was previously married to William King, Ron Pitka and David Goodlataw. She was single at the time of her passing.
Joann had a love of dogs and cats throughout her life. She had many faithful companions. She loved the wildlife in Alaska, especially the birds, bunnies and squirrels she provided daily sustenance from her home in Copper Center. She enjoyed ceramics, crocheting and reading.
Her best friend, Crystal, describes Joann as sassy, caring, compassionate, and a great friend. She didn’t know any strangers and would talk to and offer help to anyone she crossed paths with.
Joann was predeceased by: her parents Sadie Mary and Rayford Stroud; her brother David Moody and her fiancé Brian Best, who died of cancer in 2001.
Joann is survived by her foster/step brother, Clay Killian; her best friend, Crystal Killian; her aunts Charlotte Lefferson and Barbara Halseth; cousins Robin and Laurie and too many friends to mention by name.
A Celebration of Life will be held on August 13th from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at Joann’s home in Copper Center. Friends can reach out to Crystal at 907-259-5546 via text or call for further information.
