Thanks to Ahtna Inc. and Copper River Native Association for the information and photos.
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Glennallen, Alaska – The Ahtna people are mourning the loss of beloved Elder, leader and first president of Ahtna, Incorporated – Mr. Robert Marshall. Mr. Marshall passed away Sunday, March 31, 2019 at Tazlina, Alaska. A well-known and respected Ahtna leader, Mr. Marshall served his people in various capacities throughout his life and was instrumental in the formation of Ahtna, Inc., serving as its first president, and the Copper River Native Association (CRNA). He contributed many hours helping ensure our Tribal Health Organization would remain open to provide health care so our Elders could stay in their homes until the end of their lives. CRNA respectfully named its new building after him.
Even his traditional name ‘Kensal canan’, which means “Leader Man comes back with a boat,” highlights his leadership qualities. Mr. Marshall’s contributions to the Ahtna people lives on through the cultural and traditional knowledge he readily shared; he spoke of his wish that traditional Ahtna practices and protocol be followed correctly and passed on to the next generation. He frequently ended his speeches by recognizing the potential of the younger generations and encouraging them to step up and be leaders for the good of the Ahtna people.
“Robert laid a solid foundation for Ahtna to thrive as a company and we are forever grateful for the strong leadership, traditional knowledge and guidance he gave over his lifetime,” said Ahtna, Inc. chair Ken Johns.
Service Schedule:
Thursday, April 4: Visitation at 5-8 pm at Legacy Chapel, Legacy Funeral Home-Heritage Chapel at Angelus, 440 E. Klatt Road Anchorage, AK 99515
Friday, April 5: Visitation at Glennallen Chapel at 2 pm. Dinner to follow at Kluti-Kaah Memorial Hall.
Saturday, April 6: Funeral Services at Glennallen Chapel at 11 am. Interment to follow at family cemetery located at 14 mile in Kenny Lake. Dinner and Potlatch at Kluti-Kaah Memorial Hall.
For more information, please contact:
Julie Jacobson, Granddaughter
(907) 707-9713
About Robert Marshall:
Robert Marshall was born on April 13, 1922 in Chitina, Alaska, to parents Bob and Maude Marshall. A born leader, he shot his first moose at 8 and built his first fish wheel at 14. He lived with his wife Mae in Tazlina, where they raised four children and was a proud grandfather of many grandchildren and great grandchildren. He served with the Alaska Federation of Natives (AFN), RurAL CAP, and the Native Village of Tazlina. He retired after 40 years of service to the Alaska Department of Transportation. In 2013, he was awarded the prestigious AFN Elder of the Year Award which exemplifies the highest of values and qualities important to Native people.
