Elaine Hill Sunde, 1942-2024
Elaine’s son Paul Allen Mann III wrote to tell us of his mother’s passing and sent the obituary.
My mother, Elaine Louise Hill Sunde, passed away October 9, 2024 in Saranac Lake, NY.
After leaving the Wichita area as a young woman, she led a very interesting life, much of which was spent in Alaska. She had several stages in her career including working for the United States Forest Service, the Alaska State Legislature, and she finished her career as Director of the University of Alaska-Southeast in Sitka.
She did return to Wichita briefly between her time in Alaska and the time her second husband passed away She then moved to New York.
Obituary
Elaine Sunde, born Elaine Hill, passed away on October 9, 2024, at the age of 82. She was born on May 26, 1942 in Wichita, Kansas. Elaine spent her final years at Saranac Village at Will Rogers Independent Living, where she was surrounded by a supportive community of friends and staff and lived in close proximity to her son, Brian. Her passing came peacefully, shortly after enjoying a wonderful week visiting with family.
Elaine was preceded in death by her parents Ned and Geraldine Hill and her beloved husband, Richard Sunde, in 2013. She is survived by her sister, Carol Hill. Elaine was a devoted mother to her children: Paul Allen Mann and his wife Laura, Brian Mann, and Lisa Perkins and her husband Adam Walters. She also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
A lifelong learner, Elaine earned graduate degrees from Wichita State University. Her diverse and accomplished career included meaningful work with the Alaska Legislature, the United States Forest Service, and culminated in her role as director of the University of Alaska-Southeast, Sitka campus.
Elaine possessed a wide array of talents and interests. She found joy in genealogy, sewing, writing, drawing, and painting, among many other pursuits. Her creativity and intellectual curiosity enriched her life and the lives of those around her.
Memories of Elaine on Social Media
Elaine’s son Brian Mann posted the photo at right and a comment on X.
“Spent a sweet week with my small beautiful family saying bye to Mom. Elaine Hill Sunde was a badass, an adventurer. A Kansas girl who became an influential Alaskan, then a proud Adirondacker. She kicked down so many doors. My best friend and inspiration. Proud to be her kid.”
Stories Elaine wrote for this website.
How a Kansas Girl Landed in Alaska
Unexpected Careers in — Alaska!
I remember respecting Elaine in high school. She was a very independent person who seemed to find joy in all aspects of school. It is with great pleasure that I remember her as cheerful and very beautiful person. It makes me happy to read notes about her successful life and extended family. She will not be forgotten.