David Salmon, Athabascan chief, laid to rest


The Rev. David Salmon, the first traditional chief of the Athabascan people, was buried in the village of Chalkyitsik, Alaska, on Monday.

Salmon died last week after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. He was 95.

"His spirit lifted up a lot of people. He was the rock of this town," said his grandson, state Rep. Woody Salmon, The Fairbanks Daily News-Miner reported.

Funeral services combined Athabascan traditions with Christian ones. Salmon was an ordained Episcopalian minister.

Salmon was due to speak at the Alaska Federation of Natives convention next week in Fairbanks. Second Traditional Chief Don Honea Sr., who will now serve as traditional chef, will deliver the speech.

Get the Story:
Athabascan chief laid to rest (The Fairbanks Daily News Miner 10/16)

Relevant Links:
Tanana Chiefs Conference - http://www.tananachiefs.org

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David Salmon, Athabascan leader, dies at 95 (10/15)