John Smelcer loved his family and friends and big outdoor adventures. His life was shaped by growing up in Alaska before the pipeline. He invested much time and energy building community.

He held degrees including a PhD in creative writing from Binghampton University, and undergraduate degrees from the University of Alaska-Fairbanks with majors in Anthropology, English, and Secondary Education. He published widely in poetry, fiction and oral history.

John was a lifelong advocate of preserving Alaska Native language and culture. Through roles with Rosebud Magazine including poetry editor, editor-at-large, and CEO/Publisher, he had far-reaching impact in the world of creative writing.

John Smelcer is survived by his wife Amber Johnson, daughters Zara Smelcer and Ayiana Smelcer, and mother Betsy Green.

He was preceded in death by his brother Ernie Smelcer.

John’s remains will be cremated following his wishes.

A memorial gathering of friends is being planned at SIP downtown for the evening of Tuesday, October 6, 2026.