Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, Melvin Sake was born on April 21st, 1996, to Willy and Rose Sake in Fort Providence, NWT. This is where he was raised until the family moved to Mile 80. Then the family moved to Hay River and on to Fort Smith. During the move to Fort Smith, he'd attended school in Breynat Hall. He stayed in school until grade 7, then he moved to Jean Marie River, the home community of his father. Melvin liked to spend a lot of time with his father in the bush. This is where he enjoyed being especially at the family's cabin that he helped build on Sanguez Lake. Just his time there, he helped his family harvest moose, beaver, rabbits, and fish. On top of this, of his harvesting skills, he had his own trapline around the lake. He considered Jean Marie River his home even when he left three years ago. He moved to Fort Simpson to be close to his friend but was always in touch with his family.
Mr. Speaker, when the family and friends spoke about Melvin's hobbies and his past time, it was his love to be out snowmobiling in the winter and springtime and, again, it was about being on the land and fresh air. Growing up, he enjoyed playing volleyball, broomball, softball, swimming and, of course, boating. When people described him, it was what a kind person he was. He would always be willing to lend a helping hand, especially when it came to family. He was a loving and protective brother and uncle to everyone. People said that he never got angry with people, and he always had a smile and kind words for others. He really enjoyed talking and meeting new people.
Mr. Speaker, he was very proud that he knew, understood, and spoke his language. He learned it from his dad when they were on the land. He especially liked to speak to elders and hearing the stories from the past. One of the things the family and friends will miss from his passing was the way he would get people to laugh. He had the ability to make any situation to a laughable moment, and people appreciated this. Another trait was his willingness to sing a song or two or maybe even ten at any given time.
Mr. Speaker, I can tell you that he's going to be sadly missed by the family and friends. The family would like to thank everybody who was able to attend his funeral, those that passed on their condolences, and those who helped them with his celebration of life. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Member for Nahendeh. Our thoughts are with the family and community at this time.
Members' statements. Member for Nunakput.
