The Hereditary Chief of the Esquimalt Nation Andrew Thomas unexpectedly passed away Saturday morning, in his seventy-first year of life.
He was Hereditary Chief of the Nation for 47 years.
The Esquimalt Nation says Chief Thomas was fondly known as a strong leader and a dedicated and determined champion of Indigenous rights.
They go on to say that he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, partner, teacher, and colleague — and that he embraced these responsibilities with pride and honour.
A memorial will be held for Chief Thomas sometime next week, the family will release more details in the coming days.
No other details on the cause of the death have been released.
Thoughts, prayers, and wishes for Chief Andy and his family can be directed to [email protected]
Julian Kolsut
