Like most Alaskans, we were saddened to wake up to the news of the death of Eugene “Buzzy” Peltola, Jr. Mr. Peltola, the husband of our congresswoman, Mary Peltola, was well known in Alaska as the regional director of the Bureau of Indian Affairs and his many years with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service where he directed subsistence hunting and fishing programs. Additionally, he served the Native community in various positions.
Buzzy was a loving husband and father to the couple’s large family and devout in his Catholic faith. He believed in public service and supporting community. He was an elite provider and always shared his harvest of fish or game, with those in need, no matter where he was. Elders in Alaskan villages and remote communities worldwide benefited from his philosophy of sharing and taking care of others.
Our prayers go out to Representative Peltola, their children, and extended family during this time of loss and grieving. Most Reverend Andrew E. Bellisario, C.M. Most Reverend Steven Maekawa, O.P. Most Reverend Roger L. Schwietz, O.M.I.