William “Bill” Sharrow, a revered brigadier general in the Alaska National Guard and a long-serving state director for the late Congressman Don Young, passed away on April 11, 2025, at the age of 92. His beloved wife of 69 years, Margaret, was by his side during his final moments.
Born on August 19, 1932, in Witherbee, NY, a small iron mining town, Bill’s life was characterized by a profound sense of duty and commitment to his country and community.
After high school, he initially worked as a hard-rock driller in an iron mine, complementing his intense work ethic. However, his life took a new direction when he was drafted into the Army during the Korean War and stationed in Anchorage in 1952, serving with the 867th AAA Battalion. During his time in Alaska, the state captured his heart and profoundly impacted his future.
While in Alaska, Bill had the opportunity to assist in building a log cabin near Palmer, where he met Margaret, a nurse at the Palmer Hospital. Their connection proved to be a pivotal moment in his life. Following his discharge in 1954, Bill returned briefly to New York and joined an Army Reserve unit. Still, it soon became clear to him that Alaska—and Margaret—were where he truly belonged.
He made the decision to return to Alaska, where he joined the Alaska Army National Guard. His dedication and capabilities led to his commissioning as an officer in 1956. Over the next two decades, Bill’s military career advanced as he took on numerous significant roles: he served as a radio repairman, supply officer, personnel officer, and eventually Command Administrative Assistant to the Adjutant General. His exceptional leadership skills culminated in 1972 with his appointment as Chief of Staff for the Alaska National Guard and his promotion to Brigadier General later that year.
In 1974, Bill transitioned from military service to a new form of public service by becoming the state director for Congressman Don Young, a role he would fulfill for 24 years. Throughout his time in this position, he navigated pivotal moments in Alaska’s history, including the construction of the Trans Alaska Pipeline System, the tumultuous economic cycles of boom and bust, the Exxon Valdez oil spill, and the signing into law of the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) by President Jimmy Carter.
In a heartfelt tribute in the 2007 Congressional Record, Congressman Young described Bill Sharrow as “a truly great American,” commending his steadfast dedication to the people of Alaska. Young noted, “When I was unable to attend an important function or meeting, it was Bill that I always trusted to represent me.”
Congressman Nick Begich also acknowledged the importance of Sharrow’s family in his extensive service to the state. He remarked, “Bill Sharrow served the state of Alaska for nearly a quarter of a century as Don Young’s trusted right-hand man in the state. It takes a team to be Alaska’s only US representative, but it takes a team at home, as well. Thank you to Bill’s family for allowing him to serve all Alaskans for so much of his life.”
Beyond his professional endeavors, Bill was a dedicated member of his community and a man of deep faith. In 1958, he played a founding role in establishing St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church in Palmer. Later, after relocating to Anchorage, he became actively involved in St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, a commitment that reflected his unwavering dedication to both his faith and community.
Chad Padgett, a longtime acquaintance of Bill’s, shared a heartfelt tribute: “Just before his passing, I had the opportunity to speak with him. I was undergoing cancer treatment in Houston, TX, and feeling down. I heard Bill was having a serious health issue so I called him to say hello. As always, Bill was strong. He knew his fate was sealed but because of his faith in God, he was not sad about passing as he absolutely knew where he was going—to heaven.”
Padgett reflected on the positive impact Bill had on his own life, saying, “Once again, as Bill had done many times throughout the 30 years I have known him, he cheered me up, made me laugh, and I forgot all about my woes. So even from his literal deathbed, there was Bill, guiding me and making me stronger in my belief in God and humanity.”
He further expressed admiration for Sharrow’s character, stating, “Bill Sharrow wasn’t just a boss—he was a mentor, a friend, and a rare kind of leader who left a lasting imprint on everyone lucky enough to know him.”
Padgett recounted an anecdote that epitomized Bill’s kindness:
“On a bitterly cold day in January, Bill saw a woman who was cold and, without a second thought, took off his own coat and handed it to her. That was Bill: always paying attention, always ready to help, no matter the circumstance. It wasn’t for show—it was just who he was.”
Adding to his legacy, Padgett noted Bill’s quiet yet crucial influence in establishing the Alaska Military Youth Academy, highlighting Bill’s strong belief in the potential of young people and his commitment to fostering opportunities for them.
“Bill’s legacy lives on in the people he believed in, the lives he touched, and the way he made all of us feel seen, heard, and valued. He will be deeply missed—but never forgotten,” Padgett encapsulated.
Bill Sharrow was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, taking immense pride in his family. Together with Margaret, he raised three sons—David, Philip, and Steven—and reveled in the joy brought by his six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. After retiring, the couple particularly cherished their time traveling together, enjoying river cruises and warm holidays in New Zealand with family.
A celebration of Bill’s remarkable life is planned for 4 PM on April 24 at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church in Anchorage.
Bill Sharrow exemplified service, integrity, and love, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of leadership, community engagement, and familial devotion that will be honored and cherished by all.
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