Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point first female elected chief and long member of council Yvonne "Bonnie" Bressette has died.
The First Nation made the announcement on Friday.
In the statement it said she will be remembered for her dedication to her family and the community.
"She was, beyond her duties as an elected official, a community servant, endlessly devoted to our people and committed to improving and enriching the lives of all of our members, no matter their age, family status, or economic lot in life," A statement by Chief Kimberley Bressette said.
It added that Bressette has played a key role over several decades with her primary focus and attention on the First Nation and its people.
"Bonnie was never comfortable receiving accolades, a manifestation of her strong belief that she was a part of a team, but let there be no doubt that none of what we have accomplished collectively as a community over the course of her years of service would have happened without her leadership and vision. She was a strong advocate for the rights of the First Nations people and a trailblazer for women in First Nations governance, "she said.
In 2022, Bressette was appointed to the Order of Canada and in 2000 she received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Anishinabek Nation.
She is also being acknowledged for her work in the 1970's and the 1980's when the First Nation was dealing with fierce resistance.
Bressette's calm leadership is also being recognized for many years including through the Ipperwash Crisis, at the Ipperwash Inquiry and for all of her work that led to the Final Settlement Agreement.
Her wisdom and influence were instrumental in easing tensions and helping the Kettle and Stony Point First Nation achieve unity and solidarity which, without that, we would not have succeeded," the chief said. "She was that valuable and that important. She was, is, and will continue to be, irreplaceable."
Bressette is also being acknowledged for her activism that helped guide the creation of the Anishinabek Nation Governance Agreement and the Anishinaabe Chi-Naaknigewin.
As per her wishes there will be a private service for immediate family only. Condolences for the family can be sent to 9336 Lake Road, Kettle and Stony Point First Nation.
