SACHIGO LAKE FN Thunder Bay – Aboriginal News – Elder Peter Barkman has passed away. Elder Peter served his home community of Sachigo Lake First Nation as a Councillor for many years until his retirement in 2005. Peter also attended the Moosonee Bible School Training (1955-1958) and served in pastoral duties in Northern Manitoba and Ontario.
Elder Peter Barkman a life of distinction
Peter was very active in many organizations serving as a current member of the Wawatay Board of Directors (Elder) and a radio broadcaster for Wawatay from the 1970s to the 1990s.
Peter also was a current member of the Elders Council for the Meno-Ya-Win Health Centre in Sioux Lookout; providing direction and guidance to the traditional healing, medicines, foods and supports program. He served as Advisors to the Windigo First Nations Council, and the G10 and 4 Nations processes on lands and resources. He also participated at the Northern Nishnawbe Education Council meetings and was a former Board Member of Tikinagan Child & Family Services.
Peter was also a key person working on the Youth Strategy Initiative with Wasaya Group Inc. in the development process for youth programs in Thunder Bay.
At a Gala Dinner in Thunder Bay late in 2012 Wasaya Awarded Peter a special award which was accepted by his family for all of his achievements.[sws_pullquote_left] Peter dedicated his life to the betterment of his people through his active life, and his loss will be felt across NAN territory – NAN Grand Chief Yesno [/sws_pullquote_left] Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) offered its condolences to the family and community of Sachigo Lake First Nation on the passing of Elder Peter Barkman. “It is with saddened hearts that we mourn the loss of Elder Peter,” said NAN Grand Chief Harvey Yesno. “Peter dedicated his life to the betterment of his people through his active life, and his loss will be felt across NAN territory. May God watch over his family as they grieve during this difficult time.”
Visitation will take place at the Sioux Lookout Funeral Home on 128 Front Street February 1 2013 – from 6:30-8:30pm. On Feb 2nd 2013, Peter will be transported to Sachigo Lake First Nation. On Monday, a funeral will be held at 1:00pm at the Pentecostal Church in Sachigo Lake First Nation.
NetNewsledger.com and our staff offer our sincere condolences to the friends, family and members of Sachigo Lake First Nation in the passing of Elder Peter Barkman.
