Usibelli Coal Mine Announces Passing of Chairman of the Board Joe Usibelli

HEALY, AK – Usibelli Coal Mine sadly announces the passing of Joseph E. Usibelli, chairman of the company’s

board of directors. Mr. Usibelli passed away after a long-term illness on May 12, 2022, in Tucson, Arizona, with

his wife Peggy Shumaker by his side. Mr. Usibelli was 83 years old.

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"My dad was a visionary and a pioneer in Alaska’s mining industry,” said Joe Usibelli Jr., president of Usibelli

Coal Mine. He was known for his ingenuity, generosity, and his deep love for his family, employees, and

community. Together, we mourn his loss."

Joe Usibelli was born on December 28, 1938, in Suntrana, Alaska to Emil and Rose Usibelli. He became

president of Usibelli Coal Mine at the age of twenty-five after his father, Emil Usibelli, passed away unexpectedly

in 1964. Joe would serve as the mine’s president until 1987. During his tenure, Mr. Usibelli initiated the

modernization of the mine's equipment, introduced new mining techniques, and implemented a successful land

reclamation program. In 1987, after announcing that his son, Joe Usibelli Jr., would assume the position of

president, Mr. Usibelli went on to serve as chairman of the board of directors until his passing.

Mr. Usibelli is survived by his wife, Peggy Shumaker; his sister Rosalie Whyel; six children (Joe Usibelli Jr.,

Cathy Usibelli, Mitch Usibelli, Anna Tavener, Rob Usibelli, and Sean Usibelli); ten grandchildren, three nieces,

and a nephew; and three great-nieces and nephews. Details regarding the funeral and memorial arrangements

will be forthcoming.

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