ELBERT CHARTRAND

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ELBERT CHARTRAND September 1, 1952 September 24, 2012 It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, son, brother, uncle, grandpa, great-grandpa and friend on Monday, September 24, 2012 at the St. Boniface Hospital, Winnipeg, MB. Elbert leaves to mourn his loving wife Bernice; children Darrel (Karen), Dennis (Eileen), Tammy, Julie (Rob), Wendi, Thomas (Marlene), Curtis (Tiffany) and Stephanie; his mother, Martha Chartrand; siblings Pauline (Robert), David (Glorian), Nancy, Frances (Charles), Rita (Al), and Walter (Lyn); along with his grandchildren, nieces, nephews and many, many friends. Elbert was predeceased by his brother Daniel Chartrand, grandfather Joseph Chartrand, two granddaughters Madison and Sadies. Elbert was a great man. Quietly and gently he shared his dignity, intelligence, integrity, and humour with all those around him, earning himself a place of honour and respect in the Metis Nation. He began his political career as the Mayor of Duck Bay in the late 70s. After this he dedicated his career to bettering the lives of his people, working at the Swan River Friendship Centre for the last 30 years, with 29 of those years as their Executive Director. As well, he was elected to the Board of Directors of the Manitoba Metis Federation in 1984 serving as their Finance Minister and as a Board member of the Northwest Region for 11 years, and he was currently serving his fourth term as the Vice President of the Northwest Region. While representing his regional interests through both the MMF and Friendship Centre movement, Elbert was a statesman on our behalf at the provincial and national levels as well. Always quick with a joke, a smile or a story, Elbert was an everyday hero, committed to treating everyone he met with respect. His watchful eye gave him great wisdom and insight into the lives of his people and he dutifully cared for them through his career, volunteer work and personal life. Leading others helped them to find the right way while considering consequences and opportunities which taught so many people. When Elbert was in the room, he was looked up to as a source of strength and wisdom. Being a mentor may not have been something Elbert intended to do but it is a deep, lasting legacy he leaves behind. Mentoring past, current and future leaders was his way of sharing his abilities and this is what many will take away from their time spent with him. He taught by example, through quiet advice and even the occasional reprimand. But when he spoke, everyone listened. His years of service to family, friends and his people gave him insights that many felt lucky to be a part of. His children and grandchildren were the joy of his life. His laughter, good heart and unwavering presence gave his family and friends a feeling of security and protection that many men strive for, but few attain. Elbert loved the simple things in life, good food, good music, good friends and family, always teasing and teaching in his gentle way. He also enjoyed spending time hunting, fishing and just being out in the bush with family and friends this is where many of Elbert's stories came from. Our loss of him leaves a void for everyone but he leaves behind a legacy and body of work that very few will ever be able to duplicate. He is a true hero of the people he lives on in each of us and he will never be forgotten. It is with deep sorrow that a wake will be held at the Swan River Friendship Centre on Monday, October 1, 2012 with prayers at 7:00 p.m. A celebration of Elbert's life will be held at the St. Columba's Roman Catholic Church on October 2, 2012 at 10:30 a.m. in Swan River, MB with Father Roy Vazhapinkudiyil officiating. Interment will follow at the Birchwood Cemetery in Swan River, MB. Family and friends would like to thank Dr. Moon, Dr. Voe, Dr. Strumpher, Dr. Freed, Dr. Phillip and Dr. Aurora and the many nurses and staff of the St. Boniface Hospital Asper Cardiac Centre for their excellent care and compassion. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, 6 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB R3L 0K6. Arrangements entrusted to Swan Valley Funeral Services, 363 Kelsey Trail Swan River, MB R0L 1Z0 (204) 734-5775.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 29, 2012