The family of NAN Deputy Grand Chief Goyce Kakegamic, sadly announced his unexpected passing at his home on Dec. 2, 2021 after a brief illness.
Goyce Kakegamic was a long-serving leader whose professional career included art, education, and politics.
During his term four terms as Deputy Grand Chief, between (1997-2006,2012-2015) his many recognized accomplishments included establishing the Northern Ontario School of Medicine Thunder Bay Campus; and developing Oshki-Pimache-O-Win: Wenjack Education Institute and the Aboriginal trades school at Denis Franklin Cromarty High School, Thunder Bay.
Goyce Kakegemic an original member of Woodland School of Art, made famous by his brother-in-law, Norval Morrisseau, had his paintings displayed in many galleries across Canada and Europe.
The artists of the Indian Group of Seven, of which he was one, used art to express their concerns about the survival of Indigenous philosophies, nationhood and used paint and art sculpture to promote and protect Indigenous culture in Canada.
Kakegamic believed in the importance of education, having served as principal and director of education, and that the foundation of a happy, productive life for Indigenous youth was education.
He was a leader in developing and supporting Indigenous education initiatives at all levels of learning.
Funeral services for retired NAN Deputy Grand Chief Goyce Kakegamic will take place at the New Hope Fellowship at 10 a.m. EST, on Tuesday, Dec. 14, 2021.
Burial will follow at Riverside Cemetery. Ken Funk will be officiating.
For further information, contact Brian Walmark, at bwalmark@tbaytel.net
Seating in the Church is limited due to Covid regulations. Please confirm if you plan to send a reporter. please email: Brian Walmark at bwalmark@tbaytel.net for details.
