JUNEAU – Anchorage Senator Chris Birch passed away on Wednesday. He was 68 years old.

 

Birch’s proud family history in Alaska began in 1944 when his father, Frank, was stationed in Adak while serving in the US Marine Corps. After the war, Frank returned to Alaska with his wife, Bettijeanne, where he worked as a mining engineer and she as a geologist.

 

Growing up in mining camps near Fairbanks and the Brooks Range, Birch followed in his father’s footsteps, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering from the University of Alaska Fairbanks in 1972 and a Master of Science degree in Engineering Management in 1979. 

 

Birch served in the Alaska House of Representatives from 2017-2018 and the Alaska Senate in 2019, in addition to membership on both the Anchorage and Fairbanks assemblies and other numerous community organizations throughout his life. 

 

He is survived by his wife, Pam, two children and four grandchildren. 

Senate President Cathy Giessel and Senator Natasha von Imhof released the following statements on his passing.

 

“Chris’ passing came as shock to us all. He was extremely fit, in both mind and body. Chris never met a hiking trail he didn’t like and could often be found on top of a mountain range, rain or shine. He carried that same mindset to the Senate floor and didn’t shy away from the tough topics. Instead, he worked hard for Alaska’s best future, while always maintaining a positive outlook. He was my colleague, my hiking partner, my dear friend. I will miss him deeply.” –Senator Natasha von Imhof