August “Gus” Weber

Oct. 27, 1921 – Aug. 27, 2019

August “Gus” Weber died on Aug. 27, 2019.

He passed away peacefully in his home after a short illness with his family by his side.

He was born Oct. 27, 1921 in Villnachern, Switzerland, and as a young man was a member of the Swiss cross-country ski team during his years of service with the Swiss Army. He placed first in many competitions.

Gus was an adventurer at heart and in 1959 at the age of 38, along with his wife and two young daughters, left Switzerland and moved to Homer. He started Weber Masonry and built many homes and businesses in Homer area. He was also well known for his stone work.

His passions were hunting and fishing on the Anchor River, and he could be found at his favorite fishing spot which is officially named Gus’s Run. He trapped for beaver, checking his traps using cross-country skis until he purchased his first snowmachine.

He spent many happy hours in the Caribou Hills during the winter months on his snowmachine. In summer in his vegetable garden he especially loved his potatoes. He also enjoyed his daily trips to the coffee shop to “shoot the bull” with his buddies at the round table.

Gus enjoyed painting and during the early years in Homer gave art lessons. He could tell the exact time of the day by the sun and he had the uncanny ability to predict changing weather. He loved taking his grandchildren on hikes in the woods and making slide whistles out of alder branches for them.

Gus is preceded in death by his parents, August and Maria Weber of Switzerland; and his daughter, Barbara Hrenchir of Homer.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Rita; his son Mark Weber, wife Frankie their children Andrea and AJ of Homer; his daughter Claudia Johnson, husband Craig their children Maya, Travis and Kyle of Soldotna; son-in law Mike Hrenchir his children Lucas and Casey; and numerous great-grandchildren and his remaining family in Switzerland.

Gus will be remembered for his unique look at life, and his willingness to help those in need without expecting anything in return. He was loved and respected by all who knew him.

If he could speak to us now after his passing, he would have said “The big job is done” or “problem solved.”

A celebration of life will be held this next summer.