Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’d like to acknowledge Winnie Elanik, a well-respected elder who passed away in Aklavik October 30, 2012. Winnie, in her lifetime, has done tremendous work for her community and has helped numerous families overcome hardship. She was always reminding her children and their families of the importance of having God in all our lives, and to always be kind and mindful of others.
In her lifetime she did sewing for her family, always making sure her children were dressed warm, and later on taking care of her grandchildren. Sewing traditional parkas, mukluks and mitts, she enjoyed dressing her family with her sewing.
Winnie had many health problems. She had patience with her family. She always had a home-cooked meal for everyone, even strangers. No one left her home without having a cup of tea. In return, her children looked after her and made sure her last few years were comfortable and always surrounded by family.
Winnie Elanik, the matriarch of the Elanik family, will be forever remembered and deeply missed. My condolences to the family.
