OKANOGAN COUNTY, Wash. — The Colville Tribes have announced that Colville Confederated Tribes councilmember and Forestry Program manager, Joseph “Pugs” Holford has died at the age of 48.
Pugs worked in forestry management in New Mexico and then Colville. He also served as Superintendent of the Bureau of Indian Affairs for Colville’s agency.
He has earned an AS in Natural Resources Management and a BS in Forest Resources Management.
During his 17 years of service, he had a very successful career. He has earned numerous Star Awards for his participation on the Timber Sale Operating Group which helps develop forestry policy.
Star Awards are given from the Department of Interior and its bureaus. The individuals who receive this award have achieved organizational results, providing quality customer service, displayed exemplary behavior/dedication/innovation, fostered partnerships, promoted diversity or have ensured safety in the workplace.
The Chairman of the Colville Confederated Tribes, Jarred-Michael Erickson, said, “It was a shock to hear of Pugs’ sudden passing. Many of us had just seen him speak at a retirement lunch and noted how happy and healthy he seemed. It is a reminder to cherish every minute we get to spend with our loved ones. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family and the many friends and co-workers he leaves behind.”
In honor of Pugs, the BIA Administration Office and Forestry districts will be closed until Oct. 10. There was also a wake to honor the young Joseph “Pugs” Holford on Oct. 5 and Oct. 6 at Inchelium School.
Over the past several months, multiple influential members of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Indian Reservation have died. On Jan. 13, Virgil “Smoker” Marchand died at 71-years-old, Mike Finley died on Aug. 9 and Gene Joseph passed away Sept. 25.
The Colville tribe mourns the loss of these influential figures. They are all hurting but are thankful that all of these men were involved in their community.
