A pioneer in the field of First Nations education has passed away.

The Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations says its saddened to announce that Carole Sanderson died on Sunday.

Born on the Sturgeon lake First Nation she spent some early years in residential school.

Upon completion of her grade 12, she went on to Teachers College in Saskatoon and then to the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations.

She helped author the original version of the Indian Control of Indian Education manual and the design of the Saskatchewan Indian Cultural College.

She was recognized with the Saskatchewan Order of Merit in 1994 and the Order of Canada in 1998.

Sanderson had the distinction of sitting with Prime Ministers including Pierre Trudeau and Paul Martin.

She was 73.

Vice-chief Bobby Cameron says it’s a big loss but Sanderson’s legacy will live on:

“The work that Carole began from within the Federation will continue to benefit our children and all future generations of First Nations people.”

Wake services will take place at the west end hall on the Sturgeon Lake First Nation on August 21st, 2013 following a brief wake service from her home in Prince Albert.

The memorial funeral service will take place at Sturgeon Lake hall on August 22nd at 11:00 a.m.