Robert Marshall, a respected Ahtna Athabascan leader recognized throughout Alaska for his tireless efforts on behalf of Alaska Natives, passed away on March 31, with his family and friends at his side. He was 96.
Burial was at the Marshall family plot at Kenny Lake on April 6, followed by dinner and a potlatch at Kluti-Kaah.
Even his traditional name, “Kensal canan,” which means “leader man comes back with a boat” highlights hi leadership qualities,” Ahtna Inc. said in a statement mourning Marshall’s passing,
“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 Ken Johns, chairman of the regional Native corporation.
Marshall was born on April 13, 1922 in Chitina, Alaska to Bob and Laude (Charley) Marshall, and spent his young years in Chitina. After the death of his father, Robert was raised by his uncle “Bear Jack” Marshall. He married Mae Goodlataw on April 13, 1946, and the couple made their home in Tazlina, in 1964. There they raised four children: Lucille, Elmer, Judy and Norma. Marshall was the proud grandfather of many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He provided for his family using cultural and traditional values he learned in his youth, as a hunter and fisherman. He was an expert in designing and building many fish wheels and passed his love of the outdoors on to his children and grandchildren.
Marshall retired after 40 years with the Alaska Department of Transportation.
Honors bestowed upon him included being recognized as the Alaska Federation of Natives Citizen of the Year. The Copper River Native Association also named their new headquarters “the Robert Marshall Building.”
He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, Herbert Marshall, Thomas Pete, Agnes Taylor, Etta Bell and Mary Bell; his beloved wife, Mae, just over a year ago, and in the past nine years the passing of their three youngest children: Norma, Elmer and Judy. He is survived by his daughter Lucille Thomas (Jim Williams); his son-in-law, Roy Yates, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
