Alan Slade, 76, of Seattle, Sitka, and Ketchikan, passed away peacefully at home on July 3, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of steady devotion, craftsmanship, and quiet strength.
Born in Seattle, Washington, in 1949 to Frances and Clifford Slade, Alan was raised in Seattle and graduated from Roosevelt High School before earning his bachelor’s degree in economics from Western Washington University. Though trained in economics, his true calling was building something lasting with his hands.
Alongside his best friend Ron, he founded Red Star Painting in Bellingham, beginning with small projects in the historic neighborhoods of the city. His work eventually carried him north to Sitka, where he painted commercial buildings throughout Southeast Alaska. It was there, in 1985, that he met Vickie. The rest was history.
In the late 1990s, Alan and Vickie moved to Ketchikan to continue their next chapter. Through Red Star Painting, Alan left his mark on countless buildings across Southeast Alaska. His work was meticulous and dependable, reflecting the kind of man he was: steady, loyal, and committed. He retired in 2016, having built not only a respected business but also the dream home he and Vickie would share.
Beyond his work, Alan loved life fully. Race weekends were sacred in the Slade household, and he rarely missed a Formula 1 or IndyCar race. He could talk for hours about drivers, strategy, and engines, sharing his enthusiasm with anyone willing to listen. He also had a deep appreciation for classic cars and treasured Sunday bonfires with his closest friends. He and Vickie shared an adventurous spirit, spending months traveling the open road together cruising Highway 101, exploring Baja, and crossing the country in their van. Together they built a life rich in joy, laughter, and deep companionship.
Alan showed his love through action. If he cared about you, you could count on him. He stood quietly beside the people he loved, offering steady support and unwavering presence.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Frances and Clifford Slade.
He is survived by his sister Jean Batley; his brother-in-law Craig Batley; nephews Aaron, Alex, and Andrew and their families of Orange County, California; his daughter Shannon Tisher; his grandchildren Tanelle Olson, Michael Wiegand, and Matthew Wiegand; and his great-grandchildren Helmi and Heidi Versteeg.
Though he is deeply missed, his legacy lives on in the home he built, the friendships he nurtured, and the family he loved so fiercely. His steady presence remains in every painted wall, every shared story around a bonfire, and in the enduring love story he shared with Vickie.
