It is with deep sadness that Tanana Chiefs Conference (TCC) announces the passing of respected Elder, Alaska Native advocate and TCC’s first President, Alfred “Al” Ketzler Sr. of Nenana.
Al Ketzler Sr. served as President of TCC several times throughout his lifetime; 1962 to 1964, 1968 to 1972 and again from 1976 to 1978. He was an unwavering advocate and a distinguished leader in the fight for Alaska Native land rights. In June of 1962, Al Ketzler played a pivotal role in orchestrating the historic gathering in Tanana that brought together representatives from 32 Native villages, ultimately leading to the formation of TCC.
One of Al Ketzler’s most remarkable achievements during his tenure was his successful campaign to halt the state’s land selections in 1966. Through unrelenting advocacy and collaboration with other Alaska Native leaders, he convinced Secretary of the Interior, Stewart Udall, to suspend these selections until the Native land claims could be equitably addressed. Following a historic struggle and negotiations during which Ketzler and numerous other Alaska Natives resided in Washington D.C. for weeks, Congress authorized the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), a settlement encompassing over 44 million acres and nearly $1 billion for Alaska Natives, structured through a corporate framework.
“Al Ketzler’s advocacy efforts laid the foundation and established the principles of integrity, determination, and humility—values that form the essence of TCC’s present-day mission, vision, and advocacy endeavors,” expressed Chief/Chairman of TCC, Brian Ridley. “He devoted a lifetime to serving and working on behalf of the Alaska Native People. We are eternally grateful for his leadership and service, and our deepest condolences go out to his family and community.”
We would like to express our sincere gratitude for his guidance, leadership, and service throughout the years. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and the community of Nenana during this difficult time.
A funeral will be held in Nenana at the Mitch Demientieff Tribal Hall at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, with burial immediately following. A traditional potlatch will then be held that day at 6:30 p.m. There will be a memorial service in Fairbanks at the Chief David Salmon Tribal Hall at a later date – to be announced.
