William Webb

William F. "Bill" Webb, 83, passed away on January 24, 2026, at Providence Hospital following a long illness.

Bill was born on October 17, 1942, in Kansas City, Missouri, to Ellis and Jane (Backus) Webb. Growing up in Kansas City, he demonstrated early the industrious spirit and leadership that would define his life. Even before earning his first paycheck, Bill achieved the rank of Eagle Scout.

At age 16, Bill began working as a busboy at the Hillcrest Country Club in Kansas City. Through dedication and ability, he quickly rose to assistant manager of the 1,000-member club. This experience laid the foundation for a lifelong career in food service and hospitality-one that would eventually lead him to Alaska.

In 1975, Bill and his wife, Barbara, accepted an assignment with Greyhound Food Management supporting construction of the Trans-Alaska Pipeline. Asked years later why he stayed in Alaska for the next five decades, Bill answered simply, "It was home."

After first settling in Fairbanks, the couple moved to Anchorage in 1977. During pipeline construction, Bill found his calling in the "oil patch," managing housing and food services for hundreds of employees on oil rigs, offshore platforms, and remote camps throughout Alaska and California.

In the 1970s, Bill hired Joe Mathis to manage a pipeline camp, and later brought him on to work on an offshore rig in the Beaufort Sea. The two remained close friends for more than 50 years.

"He was not bashful. He didn't shy away from being forthcoming," said Mathis. "But everything was about making Alaska better."

In 1978, Bill founded Arctic Hosts, a company specializing in remote-site support services, including food service, security, housekeeping, and other essential operations. The company supported projects across Alaska, including specialized "cat trains" used for seismic exploration in the Arctic.

One of Bill's most meaningful roles was with the Alaska Support Industry Alliance, a 360-member organization dedicated to the responsible development of Alaska's oil, gas, and mineral resources. As General Manager, Bill oversaw legislative advocacy in Juneau, membership development, and the planning of conferences and meetings.

"One time in Juneau, the Alliance made baloney sandwiches for all the legislators," recalled Mathis. "That's because a bunch of baloney was what was coming out of the Capitol."

"Bill was politically savvy," said longtime friend Paul Craig, "but he never lowered his ethics to get his way."

Craig met Bill while developing Trading Bay Energy.

"We were trying to do the impossible-build an independent oil and gas company in Alaska," Craig said. "Bill offered to work on the project for a year in exchange for sweat equity."

Although Trading Bay was ultimately sold, the friendship endured.

"We've been very close friends for more than 30 years," Craig said. "We went to Lucky Wishbone every Friday for lunch."

Following his work in the energy sector, Bill devoted himself to community-focused projects in the Anchorage area. He was instrumental in developing the Anchorage Market and Festival (Saturday Market), growing it from 100 booths to more than 320. He also directed the three-day Bear Paw Festival in Eagle River and produced the Anchorage Arts & Crafts Emporium, Holiday Food and Gift Show, and Christmas Village Show.

In addition, Bill managed the popular Made in Alaska program for 10 years.

Two years ago, Bill received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Alaska Support Industry Alliance, where he was named Director Emeritus. The honor included a special Legislative Citation from the 33rd Alaska State Legislature.

Bill was a member of the Resource Development Council, Society of Petroleum Engineers, Arctic Power, Visit Anchorage, and the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce. He also served as a founding board member of Charter College.

"He lived life boldly and fully," said Craig, "and he was never afraid of a new challenge."

"Bill was upfront and honest about his death," said Mathis. "I don't think he had any regrets. I'm blessed that he was part of my life, and I will miss him dearly."

Bill is survived by his wife of 55 years; his grandnephew, Michael Ingerson; nieces and a nephew; and several grandnieces and great-grandnieces. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Ellis Webb; and his sisters, Janie Birkholz and Mary Garland.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., at Legacy Heritage Chapel, Angelus Cemetery, 440 E. Klatt Road, Anchorage.