Many are mourning the death of a former Kettle and Stony Point First Nation chief who was described as being a lifelong advocate of all First Nations.
The Chippewas of the Kettle and Stony Point First Nation Chief and Council released a statement on Friday about the passing of Thomas (Tom) Bressette.
The former chief worked in several capacities in an effort to help the community. He became involved in politics in 1986 as a council member, read a statement. He was first elected chief in 1990.
Over the years, Bressette continued to advocate for the community and other First Nations through various boards and councils. He was reelected as Kettle and Stony Point First Nation chief in 2012-2018.
"Tom was a lifelong advocate of all First Nations and will be greatly missed by many people Nationwide," read the statement.
While working in Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, Bressette pushed for adequate housing, water and wastewater treatment, infrastructure, and the building of a health centre, said a statement from the Anishinabek Nation Grand Council. He was also a strong supporter of the Anishinabek Nation Health Transformation.
"He has been a strong activist and voice for First Nation rights which has spanned decades. Throughout a remarkable life of leadership, he advocated and lobbied governments in a common vision of equality and unity to advocate for a better future for First Nations people," said Chief Reg Niganobe in a statement. "While he was best known for his strong voice, his actions also resonate throughout the Anishinabek Nation territory and beyond; we will certainly benefit from his hard work and dedication for years to come.”
Bressette also worked to help settle the Ipperwash Inquiry.
Before he became involved in politics, Bressette served for a period of time in the U.S. Army and later worked as a drug and alcohol addictions counsellor.
Bresette was the recipient of several awards in his lifetime and Grand Council Chief Niganobe said his presence will be deeply missed.
“On behalf of all Anishinabek Nation citizens and leadership, I offer our deepest condolences to Tom-baa’s family, friends, and Kettle and Stony Point First Nation. His unwavering advocacy, passion, and dedication to First Nation rights, governance, health, community safety, along with his boundless love for his community, will continue to inspire us all,” said Chief Niganobe.