To the Other Shore: Honoring T’weich eesh Clarence Antioquia

Juneau, Alaska (September 18, 2025) — To the Other Shore:

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of former Sealaska executive, T’weich eesh Clarence “Clay” Antioquia, at the age of 85.

A highly respected statewide leader in the Alaska Native community, Clay was Eagle, T’eikweidí, and Bear House (Yakutat). He was born in Sitka, Alaska, the son of Roman Antioquia, who emigrated from the Philippines, and Annie, originally from Yakutat, and was the grandchild of the L’uknax.ádí. He was lovingly raised by his maternal grandmother, Kitty Charlie, and grew up in the Presbyterian faith. He was a proud graduate of Sitka High School and continued his education at Sheldon Jackson College.

Throughout his distinguished career, Clay held numerous leadership roles that reflected his deep commitment to public service. In the spring of 1974, he was appointed Alaska Area Director of the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), following his tenure as Assistant Area Director. At that time, the Juneau Area Office oversaw all BIA operations in Alaska, managing a workforce of 1,200 employees and administering an annual budget exceeding $40 million. The office served approximately 65,000 Alaska Natives across 250 Native villages and was responsible for 52 day-schools, two boarding schools, and five field offices.

After leaving federal service, he continued his leadership journey in numerous capacities at Sealaska and its subsidiaries including: vice president of human resources; vice president of administration; vice president of corporate development; president of Sealaska Business Investment Corporation; executive vice president of Ocean Beauty Seafoods Inc.; and president of TriQuest Precision Plastics Vancouver. He later served as executive manager of the Lummi Indian Business Council and as president and CEO of the Colville Tribal Enterprises Corporation.

He was married to Patricia Myrick of Kake, Alaska, and together they raised three children: Deanne, Melanie and Todd.

His legacy of leadership, service, and unwavering dedication to Alaska Native communities will be remembered with deep respect and enduring gratitude.