About The Owners: Jan and Jim Thurston

Jan and Jim Thurston

After living most of their busy adult lives in Anchorage, Jim and Jan moved to Halibut Cove seeking quiet and stillness for their retirement, or so they thought. They mistakenly assumed this move meant they were letting go of their dream of someday having a beautiful Alaskan lodge and retreat center. The unmatched quiet solitude of Halibut Cove, a studio for Jan to do her art and a workshop for Jim satisfied them for a while. The surrounding natural beauty lulled them into thinking their desire for a center was just a pipe dream.

Fortunately, for them and their guests, a parcel of land adjacent to theirs became available. “It was as though the center followed us here,” said Jan. They both sensed this opportunity was given to them for a reason: to create a safe contemplative environment where guests can come to rekindle their spirit.

The dream of a beautiful Alaskan destination is now a reality. The lodge and cabins provide relief from stress; while hiking to the glacier and kayaking reconnect guests with nature. Visitors return home refreshed and renewed.

Jan and Jim have a symbiotic relationship that gives the lodge a life and energy all its own. As an artist, Jan is lively and has a tremendous spiritual energy about her. Her job is marketing, program development, retreat leading, and handling daily registration. Jim, an airplane and boat pilot is filled with ambition, drive and direction. He spends many long hours building, maintaining the grounds and handling the administration. He also tells great stories. Like yin and yang, together they have achieved a work of art.

Their 46-year marriage has stood the test of time, just as they hope Stillpoint Lodge will. Jan and Jim feel that this special treasure is entrusted to them; and know they are custodians of something far greater than they are. Jan and Jim hope the center will flourish to “provide an oasis of peace; where guests can re-connect with themselves, nature, and a source beyond themselves” for many years to come.