(SitNews) Ketchikan, Alaska - The Ketchikan Emergency Operations Center (EOC) announced they were informed by the family of resident Julie Wasuli that she passed away due to illness related to COVID-19. Ms. Wasuli was transferred from Ketchikan’s COVID unit to a hospital in Bellingham on November 16th and passed on December 11, 2020.

“This loss is very great for our community. We have lost a neighbor, a friend, a sister, a mother. Our community is very saddened, and we appreciate the prayers of support,” said City of Saxman Mayor Seludo. 

Ketchikan Borough Mayor Dial has offered his condolences by saying, “It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Julie Wasuli. My hope and daily prayers have always been that we as a community could get through this pandemic without a single citizen dying. My heart goes out to the family and I ask that we pray for their strength, comfort and God’s protection on our island.” 

City of Ketchikan Mayor Sivertsen also expressed his sympathy, “I am so sorry to hear the news of this loss. My heart goes out to the family and friends and the entire community. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.”

The Ketchikan Emergency Operations Center (EOC) said it is important to share this information with the community as early as possible. However, please note that the Ketchikan COVID-19 Dashboard and case counts will not reflect this death until the EOC receives official notice of the death (including cause) through Alaska Public Health. The process for official notification can be lengthy and may take several weeks. 

The Ketchikan EOC extended their sincere condolences to Julie Wasuli 's family and friends.

The Ketchikan Emergency Operations Center continues to urge all citizens to follow the recommendations for safe social distancing, mask wearing, and hygiene. Citizens are urged to take the extra precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones.

While most people who get this virus are able to recover with few symptoms or long-term effects, there are many who do not fully recover from COVID-19. The Ketchikan Emergency Operations Center asks all to please stay diligent for the sake of everyone in our community, and especially our most vulnerable loved ones.

The family has created a Go Fund Me page and as of Tuesday, the donations received were able to assist in bringing Julie Wasuli home to Ketchikan from Bellingham, Wasinging on December 17, 2020. However, the family is still in need of approximately $13,000 to help with the unexpected high costs of bringing their loved one home and laying her to rest. A little over $2,000 has been raised of the $15,000 goal. If you would like to assist the family, go to Go Fund Me: Final Journey Home: Julie Wasuli Memorial Fund

Edited By Mary Kauffman, SitNews

Source of News:

Ketchikan Emergency Operations Center

Go Fund Me: Final Journey Home: Julie Wasuli Memorial Fund

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