Miriam McShan Paquin

Miriam Elizabeth McShan Paquin a resident of Fairbanks, Alaska passed away in Jefferson Parish on May 15, 2020 at the age of 74 from complications of cancer. She was born on May 8, 1946 in New Orleans, LA and is predeceased by her husband, Laurence M. (Larry) Paquin, and her parents, Ursula Mumme McShan and Clyde Griffin McShan. She is survived by her siblings: Clyde G. McShan, II (Deborah), Michael M. McShan (Karen), Kathleen McShan, and Rosemary McShan, her sister-in-law Marian Paquin Crawford, and a host of nieces and nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews, cousins, and dear friends. She was affectionately referred to as Miribeth and Bebe by her family. Miriam graduated from Riverdale High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry at Southeastern Louisiana University where she graduated as valedictorian. She attended Oregon State University where she continued graduate studies in chemistry and also obtained an elementary teaching certificate. It was at Oregon State University where Miriam met her husband, Larry. Their adventurous spirits took them to Alaska in 1972 where they taught for five years with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, one year in the Inupiat village of Wainwright, and four years in the Alabaskan village of Shageluk in the Yukon. Both were highly regarded by the village of 150 people. As a teacher, Miriam shared her academic and creative gifts in Shageluk and adapted to the harsh, wild environment. She and Larry took a 6-month sabbatical travelling in Europe before returning to Alaska and settling in Fairbanks in 1977 where both continued teaching until retirement. They enjoyed travelling, hiking, camping, and skiing together, and spent holidays with their friends. Throughout her 30-year career, Miriam positively influenced a multitude of children as demonstrated by their unique science projects and superior writing skills. Even in retirement, she continued to teach adult literacy and was an active volunteer for the Northern Alaska Environmental Center. Later in life she enjoyed travelling with Elderhostel with the intention to learn and help others. She spent 6 weeks in the African Republic of Malawi volunteering at an orphanage, teaching sanitation, health, and sewing. She took memorable trips to Cuba, Ireland, and drove the Alaska Highway with her closest friends. She never tired of the outdoors, was an avid bird watcher and loved exploring and studying new languages. There will be a private outdoor memorial to celebrate Miriam’s life. In lieu of flowers, donations to Fairbanks Community Foodbank and Second Harvesters Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana are preferred. JACOB SCHOEN & SON FUNERAL HOME, 3827 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70119 in charge of arrangements. Condolences may be expressed at www.schoenfh.com

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