Bethel will see a new judge seated in the Bethel Superior Court, as Governor Parnell appoints Chuck Ray to the position.

Chuck Ray was appointed yesterday to replace Judge Marvin Hamilton III, who passed away last year on April 9th at the age of 55.

Ray, according to information from the governors office has practiced law in Alaska for over 27 years and manages his own law office. His practice is focused on civil litigation in torts and insurance law with an emphasis on maritime issues. Ray earned his law degree from the University of Oregon Law School in 1983 while spending nearly a decade as a commercial fisherman in Alaska. Ray married Jenny Wickett, who was born and raised in Alaska, while fishing and attending law school. He and his wife Jenny have three children.

“Mr. Ray brings a great deal of experience to his new role,” Governor Parnell said. “I look forward to the contributions he will make to the Bethel Superior Court and the communities in the Yukon-Kuskokwim region.”