Mary Virginia Roberts (September 18, 1939- November 6, 2024) also known as Ahna (meaning "Grandmother" in Inupiaq which is the Native language of Kotzebue, Alaska), passed away peacefully after a long battle with cancer at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy of love, kindness, and generosity. She was born in Nome, Alaska on September 18, 1939, to George Roberts and Virginia Harper Roberts. The youngest of three children, she shared a close bond with her siblings, Jackie Roberts Warner and George Roberts.

Mary spent her early years in Nome before relocating to Anchorage, where she attended Anchorage High School (now West Anchorage High School). As a teenager, she was a proud member of the Fur Rondy Court and worked for various organizations, including First National Bank of Alaska and Jonas Brothers (Jonas Brothers taxidermy studio in Seattle was one of the largest taxidermist studios in the world, along with a travel and fur business)

Mary enjoyed being an ambassador for the State of Alaska by hosting many well-known people including The Prince of Sweden, American Actor Roy Rogers, and Shah of Iran to name a few. She made a fur coat for Liberace and Jane Mansfield among others. She was passionate about fishing, hunting, exploring Alaska as one of the first women pilots in the state.

In her twenties and thirties, Mary spent several years living in Seattle before returning to the place she cherished most—rural Alaska. In 1979, she moved to Kotzebue, Alaska, a community she often described as having the warmest, kindest people she had ever met. While in Kotzebue, Mary worked closely with her two best friends, June Nelson and Marge Baker, in their businesses. She eventually purchased the Arctic Travel Agency, where she spent many fulfilling years helping people plan trips, which became a true passion of hers.

Mary's life took another joyous turn when her granddaughter, Lauren Hallenberg, née Owens, was born. With Lauren's arrival, Mary began to spend more time at her favorite home in Girdwood, Alaska. Always a gracious host, Ahna kept a pot of homemade soup on the stove and an open door for anyone who wanted to stop by. She adored the time spent with her best friend, Tom Walker, and others who visited. Ahna was also a devoted grandmother, helping to raise her grandchildren, Lauren and Micah. She cherished every moment with them, attending Lauren's concerts with pride and supporting Micah as he pursued his dream of becoming a pilot.

In addition to her love for family, Ahna had a deep commitment to helping others. She opened her home to over 50 children in need as a foster parent and volunteered for many years at Standing Together Against Rape (STAR) in Anchorage, where she answered the crisis line every Thursday. Her passion for women's rights and safety was one of the many causes she held dear.

Mary was also a dedicated and loving mother, helping her daughter Lisa with her business, Alaska Speech and Hearing Clinic, and offering her support in countless ways. She enjoyed traveling throughout the early 2000s before relocating to California to live with Lisa due to health issues. During her time in California, Ahna remained a constant presence in her grandchildren's lives, attending their events and offering unwavering love and support.

Ahna had a special fondness for her sons-in-law (Steve Rector and Chris Owens) with whom she shared playful banter and a deep affection. Her vibrant spirit, mischievous blue eyes, and heartwarming smile will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Mary is survived by her daughter, Lisa Guerette; her grandchildren, Lauren Hallenberg, née Owens, and Micah Owens; her step-grandchildren, Maya and Isa Rector; her grandson-in-law, Ryan Hallenberg; her "almost grandson-in-law," Richard Hauer; and her son-in-law, Steve Rector. She is also survived by her sister Jacquline Warner.

In accordance with Mary's wishes, there will be no funeral. She asked that those who knew and loved her remember her for her big heart, quick wit, and sense of humor. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Standing Together Against Rape (STAR) in her memory. Donations can be made online through the link below or directly to (STAR), with Mary's (Ahna's) name noted as the donor:

Your loving family,

Lisa, Steve, Lauren, Micah

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