Roy Andrew Peratrovich Jr. – Yeil-Naawu – son of renowned civil rights activists Elizabeth and Roy Peratrovich Sr., passed away on Nov. 26, 2023, in Gig Harbor, Wash.
A member of the Tlingit Nation, Roy was the first Alaska Native child admitted to Juneau’s “Whites only” school. Several years later, his mother’s advocacy and testimony were largely credited with helping to ensure passage of Alaska’s landmark Anti-Discrimination Act.
Roy earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from the University of Washington. Returning to Alaska, he was the first Alaska Native to be registered as a Professional Civil Engineer in the fledgling state. He specialized in the design of bridges and marinas and his 42-year engineering career encompassed working for the State of Alaska, where he oversaw the statewide design of much of Alaska’s transportation infrastructure; working for a private consultant; opening a minority business; and co-founding PND Engineers.
After Roy retired, he learned to sculpt and opened Ravenworks Art Studio, with pieces acquired by collectors around the country. He also created a number of public art pieces, including “Flight of the Raven,” a sculpture honoring his parents, located in Anchorage’s Elizabeth and Roy Peratrovich Park; busts of his parents, located at the Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C.; and a bust of his mother, located in the Alaska State Capitol Building. Additionally, Roy wrote and illustrated the book Little Whale and worked with Annie Boochever on her book Fighter in Velvet Gloves, which chronicles his mother’s life.
Roy is survived by his wife, Toby Peratrovich; son, Michael Peratrovich (wife Barbara and son Christopher); and daughter, Betsy Peratrovich. He met his great-grandson Leo Peratrovich in March 2023. Roy was predeceased by his parents, Elizabeth and Roy Peratrovich Sr.; brother, Frank Peratrovich; sister, Loretta Montgomery; and son, Douglas Peratrovich.
At Roy’s request, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, it is suggested that donations be made in Roy’s honor to the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.
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