Arctic Directory: Great Northern announces passing of John Riggs

Dave Jarrett, chief operating officer of Old Harbor Native Corp., said in an open letter to customers and vendors July 2, “It is with a heavy heart I write to you today to inform you that John Riggs, founder and president of Great Northern Engineering, passed away from an apparent heart attack on June 28, 2014. The impact of this loss will be felt for many years to come.

“John built an impressive legacy in Alaska through his various roles in the community and on important projects such as the Trans-Alaska Pipeline, the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, and the Port of Anchorage Valve Yard, to name just a few,” Jarrett said. “With his tireless work and ethical standards John built a solid company with a stellar reputation that gained him the respect and admiration of those who had the pleasure of meeting him.

“In the six short months since we became John’s partner in Great Northern Engineering, we have developed a deep respect and friendship with him, his family, and the dedicated family of employees at Great Northern Engineering. In these trying times, I know their deep bond will carry them through.”

Jarrett said Dave Korpi, a senior mechanical engineer and 17-year veteran employee of Great Northern Engineering, has been named interim CEO. Jarrett said questions or concerns going forward should be directed to Korpi at 907-745-6988 or at [email protected].

“We have a strong team at GNE and are committed to keeping business running smoothly as we know John would have wanted,” Jarrett said. “As we search for a more permanent solution, I want to assure you that business will continue as usual and we will continue to deliver quality work.”

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