Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I want to remember Peter Wilfred Canadien from Fort Providence.
Peter was born and raised in Fort Providence. He came from a very large traditional family. Growing up, his family spent a lot of time out on the land where Peter learned the traditional way of life. In his early years, Peter attended Diamond Jenness Secondary School in Hay River. Later he went on to Sir John Franklin High School in Yellowknife. He then moved back home to Fort Providence as he was needed to help his family during which time he fell in love with Phoebe Bonnetrouge. Together they have two boys.
Peter was actively involved with Fort Providence district education, and he contributed to decision-making processes for the community of Fort Providence. It was great to see community members like Peter be actively engaged in educational matters. He also loved volunteering for the community. Peter worked for the Zhahti Koe Friendship Centre as a radio announcer. He was a happy person to be around. He always had some funny stories to tell. Peter took time to talk to you just to make you laugh. One of his hobbies he enjoyed was cooking. He liked to cook for his family and especially his grandchildren.
One day during campaigning for the territorial election, I was surprised to see Peter at my door with a plate of shrimp Alfredo and a Caesar salad. He said to me you're really busy and you need to eat, so I brought you a plate. This is the kind of man he was. You always see him wanting to get involved when there were community feasts or special occasions. He was a real people person.
He leaves behind his common life wife Phoebe Bonnetrouge, his children Gay and Nathaniel and his five grandchildren whom he adored. My friend Peter was my official agent during the 2023 Election. Peter Wilfred Canadien was a great man with a good sense of humour, and he is sorrily missed by his family and friends. Rest in peace, Peter, and mahsi for your friendship to us all. Mahsi.
Our condolences go out to the family and friends. He was an amazing man.
