We were saddened to learn of the recent passing of Jim Showalter, a longtime supporter of CIRCAC, on May 22, 2020.

A lifelong Kenai resident, Jim brought a unique and welcome perspective to our organization for more than a decade. He was first elected to the CIRCAC Board of Directors in 2002, as a representative of Alaska Native Groups. He would serve in that capacity and on the Environmental Monitoring Committee until 2007. He was again elected to serve on the EMC as a public member from 2011 to 2013.

Jim spent time working in the oil and gas industry in the 1960’s and 1970’s, he was a commercial fisherman for more than 40 years and served in a number of capacities for the Kenaitze Indian Tribe and Kenai Native Association. Those experiences and relationships made Jim an effective and valuable member of the CIRCAC Board.

“James was a great guy,” said Executive Director Mike Munger. “His broad depth of knowledge added a valuable perspective to our Board of Directors. He will be missed.”

Showalter is survived by his wife, Mary Showalter of Soldotna; daughter Jennifer Yoeman and husband Jason of Kenai; son James Showalter Jr. and his wife, Jen, of Soldotna and eight grandchildren.