President Pat Pitney statement on the passing of Rep. Gary Knopp

August 1, 2020

University of Alaska Interim President Pat Pitney issued the following statement on the death of Alaska Representative Gary Knopp:

I was terribly saddened to learn of the plane crash that took the life of Representative Gary Knopp and six others yesterday morning. All of us at the University of Alaska extend our sincerest condolences to the Knopp family and friends, and offer our deepest sympathy to the families of all those involved. I ask that you keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

Over the past several years I worked with Gary in number of capacities, and I knew him to be a dedicated public servant with strong convictions who cared deeply about his family, his constituents and all of Alaska. During a pivotal time in our state’s history, he fought for compromise and solutions for all of Alaska. I will miss him as will we all.