Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker. Today I rise to recognize the passing of Mr. Stephen Rowan, a long-time resident of Fort Simpson.
Stephen Hamilton Rowan was born in England and was educated in the United States, serving as a volunteer ambulance driver during World War II. He arrived in the Canadian North in 1963, after training as a teacher. Mr. Rowan also worked in Iqaluit, northern Quebec, Sanikiluaq, and Gameti, where he became a citizen of Canada in 1980. He also worked in Trout Lake, Behchoko and, finally, Fort Simpson. He retired in Fort Simpson, from the position of superintendent of schools in 1987.
Stephen Rowan lived simply, without a microwave or satellite TV, and burned wood to heat his home, known as The Yellow House. He was a strong member of his community, who showed quiet leadership by example. As a retired educator, he provided library services and guest speakers at the John Tetso Memorial Library. He offered ski lessons and led Jackrabbit skiing for children over 15 years.
His real passion was the history and heritage of Fort Simpson. Mr. Rowan was a founding member of the Fort Simpson Historical Society. He advocated for the preservation of Fort Simpson’s heritage buildings, which are some of the oldest buildings in the Northwest Territories. Stephen Rowan developed an annotated inventory of these buildings, gave public lectures, and led walking tours for both local residents and visitors. He loved spending time with archaeologists and other researchers, and was always ready to help.
Stephen Rowan was a generous man, a wise elder, and beloved friend to all. He will be sorely missed.
Thank you, Mr. Menicoche. The honourable Member for Yellowknife Centre, Mr. Hawkins.
