About Us

Ralph Lotspeich joined Summit Charters during the summer of 2024 to fulfill his dream of working as a deckhand in the true wilderness of Southeast Alaska. While safety is his primary responsibility, he also enjoys sharing information about the local area and helping clients to get the most out of their experience. With a background spanning several decades as a PGA Golf Professional managing golf courses in California, Nevada, and Idaho, an enjoyment of travel, and a history as a lead singer in a punk rock band, passengers can expect engaging conversations and first class customer service.

Dave has lived in Alaska since 1977 and spent most of his post college adult life living in Wrangell. While he was working for the USDA Forest Service his jobs (and his recreation) always included running boats on the Stikine River. He has much knowledge of that great river including animals, vegetation, land forms, and river boat history from Wrangell to Telegraph Creek. Currently retired, after 54+ years with the Forest Service, he continues learning and enjoying his long relationship with the Stikine River. You will see Dave on the Stikine River Telegraph Creek Excursions.

John was not born in Alaska but got here as fast as he could. Raised in the greater Tacoma Washington area and the youngest of 4 siblings, his love for all things water started at a young age, with an old patched up plywood skiff and oars on Steilacoom Lake.

Moving North in 1984 to Juneau for construction work, then to Wrangell in 1985 where he married Vickie and entered a large, water friendly family.  He owned and operated a home building and remodeling business since 1897, added Fire Sprinklers in 1990 and retired from all construction in 2023.

He is an active volunteer captain & EMT in the Fire Dept.

Summit Charters began with a 6-pack boat in 2021, and the Denali was new to him in 2005. With an increase of boat work and a lack of crew for construction it seemed like the perfect time to let something go.

John completely enjoys every moment showing his guests his big back yard. He considers SE Alaska his but is willing to share it.

As a father of 3 and recently a grandfather to 3, a new life goal is to show his grandchildren, as he has his children, his love of the land and waters.