Jeffrey Alan Marcolina

In Loving Memory of Jeffrey Alan Marcolina

April 8, 1961 – October 24, 2026

Jeffrey Alan Marcolina, lovingly known as Jeff, passed away on October 24, 2026, at the age of 65. He will be remembered for his brilliant mind, adventurous spirit, honesty, strong faith, and, above all, his unwavering love and dedication to his family.

Born on April 8, 1961, in Joliet, Illinois, Jeff built a life centered on hard work, curiosity, and adventure. Throughout his career with Bell Helicopter, Northwest Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, he pursued his passion for aviation while providing his family with a lifetime of opportunities and unforgettable experiences. Through his work with Delta, he shared his love of travel with his family, creating treasured memories across the world that will be cherished forever.

Jeff was a devoted husband to his wife, Jean Murtaugh, and a loving father to his daughters, Jena and Maggie. He worked tirelessly to provide for his family and ensure his daughters had every opportunity to succeed. He believed in hard work, education, and learning through experience, always encouraging them to challenge themselves and pursue their dreams. He was the person everyone turned to for advice, answers, and solutions. Beneath his blunt words and high expectations was a husband and father who cared deeply and always wanted the very best for the people he loved. His devotion to Jean was evident in the life they built together and the love they shared.

An adventurer at heart, Jeff loved traveling, camping, and exploring new places. One of his greatest dreams was to retire in Tok, Alaska. In 2023, he purchased a cabin and began turning that dream into reality, moving belongings from Minnesota to Alaska and working diligently to make the cabin a home. Alaska became his happy place, where he embraced the freedom, beauty, and adventure he had always sought. Though he did not have as much time there as he had hoped, he fulfilled a lifelong dream and made it his own.

Jeff's legacy lives on through the family he loved, the lessons he taught, and the memories that will be treasured for generations. Rooted in their Catholic faith, his family finds comfort in knowing that his love remains with them and that they will meet again in heaven.

Jeff is survived by his beloved wife, Jean Murtaugh; his daughters, Jena Marcolina and Maggie Marcolina (Rayce Gullicks); his brother, Gary Marcolina (Leray Marcolina); his nieces, Jenny Marcolina, Lauren Marcolina, and Elizabeth Hansen; and his nephews, Austin Marcolina (Becca) and Mason Marcolina.

The Rite of Christian Burial will be held at Saint Francis de Sales Catholic Church on Wednesday, October 28, 2026. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the Mass at 11:00 a.m. A luncheon will be held at Mancini’s Char house from 1pm – 3pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Diocese of Fairbanks, supporting the Catholic communities and ministries that were meaningful to Jeff.