Sarvela (nee Buckland), Mary “Molly” Richards (1913-2004)
Many Sitka, Alaska residents have commended Mary for her extensive civic involvements. She was recreation director at the Sitka Pioneer Home, organized and was President of the Sitka Community Auxiliary, hosted an annual salmon bake at her home for the Sitka Summer Music Festival, and contributed her energy to many other community organizations. The Sitka Chamber of Commerce’s “Cossack Cap” award recognized these many accomplishments.
Mary was born in New Zealand and graduated from the VGH School of Nursing in 1937. After her marriage in 1940 she moved to Sitka, where from 1955 to 1975 she was a general duty nurse and supervisor, later becoming recreational director. Her energy and commitment inspired many.
Contents of Biographical File
- Biographical Information Profile
- Biographical information
- Mary Richards, “What Nursing Means to Me”.
- “Sitka’s Faith in Action” Newsletter
- In support of Sarvela’s nomination for the Cossack Cup Award.
- Photocopied article and letter on Richards.
- Photograph (1988)
- Ardyce Czuchna-Curl, “Mary Sarvela: How to Live Life to the Fullest”, Daily Sitka Sentinel, Sitka, Alaska, August 15, 2003.
- Biographical information
- Funeral program