Thomas John “Tussalviq” Cheemuk
Thomas Cheemuk, "Tussalviq", was born in St. Michael on January 22,1954 to late John Sr. and Mary Cheemuk. He is the eldest brother to Hilma, Elmer, Annie, late John JR., late Harold, Sara, Milton, Richie and late Alberta. He was also known as Tommy and Tom to many of his friends, cousins and relatives. His nieces and nephews often called him “Unga Bones” a name that his sister Alberta gave him while teasing him because of his fit size.
Thomas fell in love with Elsie Akaran in 1977 and wed her on July 9, 1983. Together they had eight children: late Johanna, Aida Cheemuk-Lake, Thomas JR (Boy), Tamira, Axel, late Johnny Cheemuk Prince (Pa), Tommicina and Leon.
Thomas was an extremely supportive husband, father and papa for his family. While not working he loved to hunt, birds, wolves and foxes. He also loved herring fishing during the season. He loved traveling to nearby villages to provide for his family. Thomas worked for Alaska Commercial Company in his early years. He also worked with Tumet Industries, STG, Bering Strait School District and Tapraq Inc. as a heavy equipment operator. He served on St. Michael City Council, Native Village Council and St. Michael Native Corporation Council.
When he wasn’t working, Thomas loved spending his free time with his grandchildren. He loved holding his grand- babies on his chest while laying down, so they’ll listen to heart beat. He loved teasing the older grandkids, often doing or saying the opposite of what they were doing. Thomas will be missed by many friends and family.
Rest in Peace.
Pall Bearers: Thomas JR, Axel, Elmer Cheemuk, Elias Akaran JR, Doulas Steve, Tyrone Cheemuk. Honorary Pall Bearers: Glen Shipton, Louie Ambrose, John Albert Tonunchuk, Victor Steve JR., Aaron Burmeister, and Jimmy. Thomas is survived by wife Elsie, children Aida, Thomas JR, Tamira (James), Axel (Mary), Tommicina and Leon. Grandchildren Tyrone and Renesmae Cheemuk, Delilah and Leandra Cheemuk, Wesley and Leonard Kobuk, Addison Cheemuk- Lake, Regina and June Cheemuk, Julius and Rodney Niksik, Axel Jr., and Valily Cheemuk, Alphonsus Cheemuk, Aunie and Evie Glasier. Brothers Elmer, Milton Cheemuk, Richie (Rosann) Cheemuk. Sisters Hilma (late Victor SR) Tonunchuk, Annie (John SR.) Weslock, Sara(Francis SR) Prince, and many nieces and nephews.
Thomas is preceded in death by parents John SR and Mary Cheemuk, daughter Johanna, son Johnny C. Prince, brothers John JR, Harold Cheemuk, sister Alberta Steve, uncle Matthew Andrews SR, father in-law Elias Akaran SR.
