Alfred James “Chief” Wilson passed away on Monday, February 16, 2026, at Edgewood in Fruitland, Idaho. He was valiant to the very end.
His family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers, nurses, therapists, and physicians who provided extraordinary care over many years. May God bless each of you for your devoted service.
Early Life
Alfred was born on November 7, 1941, in Crystal, New Mexico, to Rose Ann Roanhorse and Samuel Wilson, the second of eight children. He grew up on a small family farm where he learned the value of hard work early in life.
After attending a small Catholic school that only offered classes through third grade, Alfred’s educational opportunities changed dramatically when a missionary from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Paul Nelson, helped coordinate his participation in the Indian Student Placement Program. In 1952, Alfred and his younger brother Perry relocated to Adrian, Oregon for schooling.
He later lived with Milt and Melvina Nelson, and then with Jack and Mary Ellen Nelson in Ontario, Oregon. During these formative years, Alfred balanced school, farm work, and athletics. He attended Lindbergh Elementary and later Ontario High School, graduating in 1962. He was active in basketball, football, and track, earning letters and forming lifelong friendships. He was widely admired for his warmth, humor, and loyalty.
Education & Military Service
In 1964, Alfred enrolled at Treasure Valley Community College (TVCC), where he lettered in both football and basketball and particularly enjoyed his studies in mechanical drawing. He graduated in June 1966 with an Associate Degree in Science – Industrial Arts.
Two months later, driven by a deep sense of duty, Alfred enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on August 18, 1966. After completing basic training in San Diego and advanced infantry training at Camp Pendleton, he deployed to the Pacific.
He served with the 3rd Marine Division, 2nd Platoon, 9th Marines, and later with Gulf Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment, stationed near the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) in Vietnam. Alfred was wounded shortly after his arrival, recovered in Okinawa, and courageously chose to return to his unit. In April 1968, he was made squad leader after many in his unit were lost during a fierce four-day battle. On May 27, 1968, he sustained severe injuries that ultimately placed him on the VA’s 110% disabled list.
Recovery & Resilience
Alfred spent several years in recovery in hospitals in Oakland, Portland, and Boise, learning to walk with a brace, adapt to limited vision, and regain independence using one hand. His strength and determination defined this chapter of his life.
Returning to farm life, Alfred accomplished tasks many would have thought impossible—setting siphons, building fence, feeding livestock, irrigating, and more. Though unable to obtain a driver’s license due to vision loss, he gained renewed independence through specially adapted three-wheelers and ATVs. He loved riding across the countryside, visiting neighbors, and turning simple encounters into lifelong friendships.
Faith & Community
Alfred faithfully served in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in numerous callings, including Primary and Sunday School teacher, member of the Sunday School Presidency, and leader in the Young Men and Primary programs. His lessons were creative and memorable, filled with object lessons that captivated children’s hearts.
He coached church basketball teams, rarely missed a high school game, and proudly supported the Ontario Tigers long after his own family graduated.
Alfred was deeply involved in the VFW, DAV, and the American Legion, participating in parades and community events. He treasured speaking at Veterans Day assemblies and in classrooms, sharing his experiences and proudly honoring his Navajo heritage. He believed in healing through open conversation and went out of his way to thank fellow servicemen and women.
He also cherished simple joys—monthly barber shop visits, lunches in town, rotating visits with friends, and loyal farm dogs who rode faithfully beside him.
Those Who Survive Him
Alfred is survived by his biological siblings:
Raymond Morris, Betty Wilson, Perry (Irene Neswood) Wilson, Lafe (Kristin) Wilson Damon, and Judy W. Clark; and foster siblings LuAnn Aldred and R. Kent (Yvonne) Nelson, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Benjamin “Benny” Wilson, Earnest “Ernie” Wilson, and Ralph Wilson; and foster parents R. Jack and Mary Ellen Nelson, along with other cherished family members.
Services
A public viewing will be held on Sunday, February 22, from 6:00–7:30 p.m. at Ontario Haren-Wood Funeral Chapel,
2543 SW 4th Ave., Ontario, Oregon.
On Monday, February 23, a viewing will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11:00 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,
661 SW 12th St., Ontario, Oregon.
Graveside committal with Military Honors and interment will follow at Evergreen Cemetery in Ontario.
A livestream of the service will be available at:
https://inmemorial.us/live/inmemorial-channel-1
Alfred “Chief” Wilson lived a life of courage, resilience, service, and friendship. His strength of spirit, unwavering faith, and generous heart will be remembered and honored by all who knew him.
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