Much of the Beaufort Delta is in mourning this week after a well-known Elder passed away Nov. 6.
Photo courtesy Inuvialuit Regional Corporation
Born around Husky Lakes in 1934 to both Inuvialuit and GwichSA国际影视传媒檌n parents, Edward Lennie (Inglangasuk) was a lifelong ambassador of the North. His contributions to the north were numerous but he probably best known for his work in restoring the Northern Games in the early 1960s to their current glory.
SA国际影视传媒淭he loss of Edward cuts deep into our community and our thoughts are now with the family. We all prayed for him and hoped he would make another recovery,SA国际影视传媒� said Inuvialuit Regional Corporation CEO Duane Smith. SA国际影视传媒淓dward is a respected Elder and leader within our community; we will mourn him and the many others we continue to lose during these difficult times.SA国际影视传媒�
LennieSA国际影视传媒檚 passion for the Northern Games continued throughout his life, including his participation in the Northern Games Summit at East Three School in February of this year. He was a strong coach for children and taught them wisdom such as to never use the words SA国际影视传媒淚 canSA国际影视传媒檛.SA国际影视传媒�
His family served as a safe haven for many foster children throughout the years and Lennie was also known for helping youth by teaching traditional practices on the land. He was awarded an Indspire Award in 2003, though at the time it was still known as the National Aboriginal Achievement Award.
SA国际影视传媒淲e lost a pillar of the Delta community today,SA国际影视传媒� said GwichSA国际影视传媒檌n Tribal Council Grand Chief Ken Smith. SA国际影视传媒淓dward Lennie was a prime example of the Inuvialuit-GwichSA国际影视传媒檌n partnership. An entrepreneur, Indigenous advocate, family man and one who lived a true traditional lifestyle.
SA国际影视传媒淗e was also a great square dance caller and an avid dancer. We will miss you uncle Edward and HaiSA国际影视传媒� Choo/Quyanainni for the great example you have set for us to follow. Condolences go out to his family and may the memory of all that he has done for the North provide some comfort to you all!SA国际影视传媒�
Lennie was also a long-time member of the Inuviluit Enrolment Committee, which reviewed all applications for acceptance into the Inuvialuit Trust.
A funeral is being planned that will be broadcast online, though details are still being worked out.
Upon word of his death, tributes poured in from across the Beaufort Delta.
SA国际影视传媒淭oday we lost a huge part of our history,SA国际影视传媒� said Inuvik-Twin Lakes MLA Lesa Semmler. SA国际影视传媒淢ay you rest now Uncle Edward.SA国际影视传媒�
