Terry Van Zanten January 2022 House Fire

Our family friend and former employee, Terry Van Zanten, lost his house out Yoder Road to a fire on Wednesday, January 26, 2022. Terry started working for my parents, Al & Leilani Kingsbury, in 1986 while they were clearing trees for what would eventually become Birch Creek Ranch. He worked seasonally at the farm for over 35 years. He is known for his quiet humor and helpfulness among the other employees, guests and customers of Birch Creek Ranch. He has always lived humbly and simply in the house he built over the same years.
 
This loss comes not only in the middle of winter but also too soon after his 70th birthday. The fire resulted in a complete loss, including nearly all of Terry's possessions. The house was not insured, and the property is outside of the fire service area. No effort could be made to save it. Terry is temporarily staying on the couches of friends and neighbors and hopes to get back to his property in a loaner camper trailer as the weather allows. He plans to begin rebuilding in the spring, so all of the fundraising on his behalf will go right into his account toward his immediate expenses and the new cabin. If you prefer to donate directly, ask at Mat Valley Federal Credit Union for "Terry Van Zanten fire account."
 
Thanks for helping out a fellow Alaskan friend and neighbor.
Brian Kingsbury

 

fire photos by Eric Chappel