Priest Yakov Steven, who was attached to Saint Sophia Church here, fell asleep in the Lord at the Alaska Native Medical Center, Anchorage, AK, on Sunday, August 10, 2014.
Born on August 25, 1953 to Matthew and Natalia Steven, Father Yakov grew up in Oscarville, AK. He married his Matushka, Elizabeth, on January 7, 1977. He had a long-time career in the Alaska National Guard and retired with the rank of sergeant. He was a 1978 graduate of Saint Herman’s Seminary and ordained to the diaconate and priesthood in 1996 and 1999 respectively. During his priesthood, he served in the rural Alaskan communities of Bethel, Kasigluk, Kwigillingok, and Napaskiak.
Among his many hobbies, Father Yakov loved subsisting and teaching the subsistence lifestyle, especially to his grandsons. He also enjoyed and taught singing, most specifically Slaaviq and other church hymns. He was extremely supportive of education, and often served on the ASB of villages in which he served as priest.
Father Yakov is survived by his wife, Matushka Elizabeth; daughter Katherine [Joseph] and grandsons John, Alexie, Ralph, John, and Brian Jr., as well as by the other children he helped raise: Brian, Janel, and Roberta Riley. His siblings include Nastasia Larson (deceased), Martha Larson, Annie Frank, Nicholai Steven, Marie [Ignati] Jacob, Balassa Larson, and Olga Mesak.
The Service of the Funeral of a Priest will be celebrated at Saint James Church, Napaskiak, AK, at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 13. The Divine Liturgy will be concelebrated by His Grace, Bishop David and numerous clergy at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 14, with interment to follow.
May Father Yakov’s memory be eternal!