Former Alaska State Rep. Clark Gruening Passes Away at 82
Juneau, Alaska – Clark Gruening, a former Alaska State Representative and a pivotal figure in the state’s political landscape, passed away on June 17, 2025, at the Juneau Pioneers Home. He was 82 years old.
Born on March 28, 1943, Gruening was the grandson of Ernest Gruening, the former Territorial Governor and U.S. Senator, known for his vigorous advocacy for Alaska’s statehood. Raised in Juneau, he graduated from Juneau-Douglas High School and later earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Oregon, followed by a law degree from George Washington University.
Gruening’s public service began in the 1970s, and he was elected to the Alaska House of Representatives in 1974, where he served two terms. Notably, he helped establish the Alaska Permanent Fund, a crucial component of the state’s financial framework, and was known for his ability to collaborate across party lines.
In 1980, Gruening garnered national attention when he defeated incumbent U.S. Senator Mike Gravel in the Democratic primary—a significant political reversal, as Gravel had previously unseated Grouening’s grandfather. Gruening later lost the general election to Republican Frank Murkowski.
Despite stepping away from elected office, Gruening remained actively engaged in Alaska’s civic and legal communities. He contributed to numerous organizations, including the Juneau Community Foundation and Southeast Alaska Independent Living. In 2020, the University of Alaska Southeast honored him with an Honorary Doctorate of Laws for his decades of service.
He is survived by his wife, Rosemary; two sons; and several siblings. Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy expressed condolences, highlighting Gruening’s dedication to the state’s future. Funeral arrangements are pending, with flags to be flown at half-staff in his honor.
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Photo credit mustreadalaska.com
