The Fairbanks community is deeply saddened to share the news of Win Ostanik’s passing, a beloved son, scholar, and steward of Alaska’s natural landscape. Win’s life was defined by his love for the rugged beauty of his home state and his thoughtful dedication to understanding and preserving the wildlife that makes the Alaskan wilderness so unique.
Born and raised in Fairbanks, Win carried a deep connection to the land from an early age. His academic journey began with local Catholic schools in Fairbanks, where he learned the values of community, service, and curiosity that stayed with him throughout his life. He later pursued higher education at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, building a solid foundation in environmental sciences and a passion for ecological stewardship.
Win’s commitment to wildlife and conservation led him to further his studies at Dakota College at Bottineau, where he focused on Wildlife Management. He immersed himself in understanding the delicate balance of Alaska’s ecosystems and developed both the scientific expertise and the profound respect necessary to protect the creatures of the North.
Friends and family remember Win as a quiet, determined individual who felt most at home in the vast wilderness he loved so deeply. Whether exploring trails or studying wildlife behavior, he approached every endeavor with focus, humility, and respect for the natural world.
Win’s passing leaves a heartfelt void in the lives of those who knew him and within the broader conservation community. His legacy — rooted in discovery, dedication, and a deep love for Alaska — will continue to inspire all who walk the trails he cherished.
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