EDWARD HEAD

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EDWARD HEAD Peacefully, with family and friends by his side, Senator Edward Head passed away on Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at the age of 78. Left to mourn his passing is his wife of 57 years, Angeline; their children, Darlene, Glen, Ron, Ed Jr., Larry, Gabe, Roslyn, Grace, Doris, Janet, Connie and Ernest; 39 grandchildren; 72 great-grandchildren; and many other family members and friends, including Al Benoit, whom he adopted in the traditional Metis way. He was predeceased by his daughter Shirley Joan, sister Vicky Chadney (nee Head), brother Walter and niece Lisa Bernadette. Edward was born in Granville Lake, Manitoba on October 17, 1931, the son of Thomas and Mary Head (nee Sayese). He married Angeline on August 7, 1952 and spent many years working as a trapper, diamond driller and guide before becoming involved in Metis politics. One of the founders of the Manitoba Metis Federation (MMF), Edward was deeply committed to the advancement of the Metis Nation. He acted as vice-president of the MMF's Thompson region and was elected president of the MMF in 1975, moving forward issues of great importance to the Metis people and serving as a senior advisor to the Metis government. Edward was recognized for his outstanding achievements with honours such as the Order of Manitoba and the Order of the Metis Nation. The MMF also bestowed upon him the title of Senator in 2004 for his service to the Metis Nation. Edward's leadership and dedication will be missed by everyone who knew him, but his legacy will remain forever. Memorial services will be held at the MMF Home Office (150 Henry Avenue) on Friday, October 30 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and the Metis Hall in The Pas (1515 Gordon Avenue) on Saturday, October 31 in late afternoon. A funeral service will be held on Monday, November 2 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Our Lady of The Sacred Heart cathedral in The Pas. The family requests that all flowers be sent to Cropo Funeral Chapel in Winnipeg (1442 Main Street, 204-586-8044).

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 30, 2009