William Herbert Kelder

William Herbert Kelder, 67, passed away Nov. 11, 2013, at his home in Wasilla.

Celebration of life is at 1 p.m., Jan. 11 at the Smith Family Home, 1500 Bogard Road, Wasilla.

Bill was born on Oct. 4, 1946, in Fort Eustis, Va., to Capt. William L. and Frances Lee Kelder (nee Scott). He grew up in a U.S. Army family; living in Japan, New York and Oklahoma.

Like many, Bill first came to Alaska via the military. He was assigned to Air Force Intelligence at Elmendorf in 1967. After a Vietnam tour, he returned and spent most of his life working in and out of Alaska politics, journalism and government service.

Bill was aide to former Valley state Sen. Jay Kerttula, press secretary to U.S. Rep. Don Young, a special assistant to the Mat-Su mayor, and media director for the Alaska Senate majority. He also worked as a reporter or editor for Anchorage, Fairbanks and Mat-Su newspapers.

Among friends, Bill was known for his wit, intellect, astounding library and concerns for the plight of veterans.

His parents and sister, Kathleen, preceded him in death. His sister Dr. Diane Kelder of New York City survives him.

Arrangements cared for by Valley Funeral Home and Crematory.