Glen Gorden Miles (1942-2024)
Glen Gorden Miles, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 28, 2024, in his home in Palmer, Alaska, surrounded by his loving family. Born on February 4, 1942, Glen was the beloved son of Margaret (Severson) and Warren Miles. He was preceded in death by his siblings Marvin, Bruce, and Roy, and is survived by his sister Rose Murray and his brother Little Roy.
Glen's life was marked by a deep commitment to family, a passion for the outdoors, and a dedication to his work. He married the love of his life, Jayne Miles, on August 13, 1966, and together they built a life filled with love and adventure. Glen and Jayne were blessed with three children: Lora Mahoney, who sadly passed away in 2016, Yvette Delaquito, and Kim Mahoney. His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Ashlee Ronning, Jonathon Delaquito, Anthony Delaquito, Keegan Delaquito, Jacob Mahoney, Claire Mahoney, and great-grandson Kaiden McIntyre, who will forever cherish the memories they shared with their grandfather.
Glen's early years were spent in Elbow Lake, Minnesota where he graduated from high school in 1960. Shortly thereafter, he served his country with honor in the United States Air Force from July 5, 1960, to May 19, 1964. Following his military service, Glen returned to work alongside his father in beekeeping, a trade that instilled in him a profound appreciation for nature and hard work.
In 1974, inspired by his dear friend Luverne Knutson, he and Jayne moved their family to Alaska. In Alaska, Glen embarked on a new venture as a lodge owner, a career that would define much of his life. He first owned the Little Susitna Roadhouse located in Hatcher Pass until 1983, and later, the Lake Louise Lodge from 1985 through 2007. Through these endeavors, Glen became a well-respected figure in the lodge business, known for his hospitality and the friendships he cultivated with guests and colleagues alike.
Glen's love for the outdoors was evident in his hobbies, which included hunting, trophy lake trout and northern pike fishing, and spending time on his Farmall tractor, often cutting down trees on his property. He was a man of many talents, enjoying dancing the two-step, waltz, or polka, and he took great pride in his Norwegian heritage. Glen celebrated Norwegian Independence Day with traditional folk songs and dishes such as lefse, lutefisk, and potet klub, honoring the customs of his Norwegian ancestors.
Glen will be remembered for his patience, kindness, and indomitable Viking spirit. His life was a testament to the values he held dear: family, friendship, and a love for the natural world. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy will live on through the stories and memories shared by his family and friends.
A celebration of Glen's life will be held at Lake Louise Lodge at a future date, where those who knew and loved him will gather to honor his memory and the remarkable life he led. Glen Gorden Miles will be deeply missed, but his spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched.