NAN Mourns Passing of Former Deputy Grand Chief Terry Waboose
THUNDER BAY, ON: Nishnawbe Aski Nation (NAN) Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler, on behalf of the Executive Council, expresses heartfelt condolences following the passing of former Deputy Grand Chief Terry Waboose:
“We are very saddened to learn that our friend and colleague has left us and begun his journey to the Spirit World. Our prayers and condolences are with his family, friends, and the entire community of Eabametoong First Nation.
Terry dedicated his career to improving the quality of life for all members of NAN First
Nations. He was a strong advocate for education, improved living conditions, and customary care for our children and youth. He led the social services portfolio for many years and advocated for the development of an integrated provincial strategy for prevention and support services for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.
Working with a dedicated committee of NAN Chiefs and the Board of Directors, he was
instrumental in their work to secure official designation of Kunuwanimano Child and Family
Services as a Children’s Aid Society in 2015.
Terry touched many lives in many meaningful ways. We honour his life and thank the Creator
for the years of leadership and friendship he shared with his family, his community, and
Nishnawbe Aski Nation.”
Terry was raised in Miminiska, approximately 35 miles upstream from Eabametoong along the
Albany River, and attended public school in Sioux Lookout. As a youngster, he was instilled with a deep appreciation for the land from his parents and grandparents.
Terry was first elected to the Executive Council in 2006 following seven years of service with NAN in a variety of positions, including NAN’s first Governance Secretariat director. He was re-elected as Deputy Grand Chief in 2009 and elected again in 2015.
Prior to NAN, Terry served as a policy analyst at Matawa First Nations Management and worked on resource development at Windigo First Nations Council.
Funeral arrangements have yet to be announced. Please join us in keeping Terry’s family and friends in our prayers during the difficult days ahead.
For more information please contact:
Michael Heintzman,
Director of Communications
Cell: (807) 621-2790
mheintzman@nan.ca