Memories & Celebrations - In Memoriam

Special Acknowlegement of Shibobama Elders

It is with sincere sadness that Shibogama First Nations Council shares the passing of its respected influential three (3) elders these past weeks:

• Late Charlie Bighead (May 27, 1937 – February 3, 2024) of Wunnumin Lake
• Late Harry Semple (August 3, 1934 – February 3, 2024) of Kasabonika Lake
• Late Christine Ostamus (March 11, 1939 – February 8, 2024) of Kasabonika Lake

The losses are so great and emotional to Shibogama and its communities as well as other First Nations organizations because all these elders have devoted their lives to the betterment and advancement of Indigenous cultural, values, beliefs, and inherent rights. All of them were community leaders and have contributed to the communities in its own special attributes, knowledge, and experiences.  

All of them were instrumental in the creation of Shibogama First Nations Council as it is now, and they were the authors of the Shibogama Elders’ Proclamation ’99 that guides and directs the chiefs and the organization in their work. Shibogama wants to acknowledge and honour their positive contributions and lengthy public services to the Shibogama First Nations Council and to the communities.            

On behalf of Shibogama First Nations Council Chiefs, management, staff and affiliated communities, we want to extend our condolences to the immediate families of Late Charlie Bighead of Wunnumin Lake, Late Harry Semple and Late Christine Ostamus of Kasabonika Lake of your losses.

Late Charlie Bighead, Late Harry Semple and Late Christine Ostamus will be missed but will always be respected and remembered in our hearts.  

Matthew Angees, Executive Director

Shibogama First Nations Council