Rhea Claire McDonald

Rhea Claire McDonald, 76, passed away from complications of pancreatic cancer on Sunday, Oct. 14, 2018, at Alaska Regional Hospital with her husband Todd at her side. Rhea was born in Hackensack, N.J., on May 19, 1942, to Marcella and GusBurton VanWyck; she was an only child. She resided in Alaska for more than 38 years. Rhea married Michael Todd McDonald on June 16, 1984.

She leaves behind her husband, Todd; her son, John Basler with wife Sue; her grandson, Christopher Basler with his wife Rayanne and her great-grandson, Caleb Basler; and her grandson, Levi Basler with his wife Dominique and great-granddaughter, Livianna.

Rhea had a large host of friends in Alaska and the Lower 48. Eternal thanks to all the good people who visited at her hospital room, and all the very large host of people who have expressed their sympathy. Rhea was loved very much by all who knew her. She was an avid clogger with Chugach Mountain Range Cloggers and also Anchortown Cloggers. She also played the triangle with Bayou Glacee', a traditional Louisiana Acadian band.

Rhea touched the lives of so many people. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. Many people who knew her felt the warmth of her understanding and friendship. She will be sorrowfully missed.

There was a celebration of life for her at the Moose Lodge at 4211 Arctic Boulevard in Anchorage, Alaska, on Monday, Oct. 22, 2018, at 6 p.m.

Arrangements for interment at Highland Cemetery in Iowa Park, Texas are pending with Dutton Funeral Home of Iowa Park.