The Lac La Ronge Indian Band is mourning the passing of a long-time community leader.
The band announced on Tuesday that Clifford McKenzie had died at the age of 64.
In the media release, LLRIB extended condolences to McKenzie’s family, friends and loved ones, describing him as a compassionate leader, mentor, educator and advocate who made a lasting difference in the lives of community members.
At the time of his passing, McKenzie was serving as Health Clinic Supervisor in Grandmother’s Bay, a role he had held since December 2022.
Over the years, he served the Band in several capacities, including guidance counsellor, Adult Basic Education instructor, Public Works foreman, Prevention and Recovery Services worker, Cree language and cultural instructor, Aboriginal Head Start instructor and Operations Manager in Grandmother’s Bay.
McKenzie also served on several LLRIB boards and committees, including the Keethanow Health Advisory Committee, School Committee, Education, Social Development, Economic Development and Police Management committees. He represented Stanley Mission as an LLRIB Band Councillor from 1993 to 1997.
His service also extended to the Northern Advisory Board and the La Ronge Hospital Board.
LLRIB says McKenzie was a lifelong learner who graduated from Keethanow High School in Stanley Mission in 1981 before earning certifications in Water and Wastewater Operations, completing Circumpolar Studies, receiving a Bachelor of Arts with Distinction and later earning a Master’s degree in Northern Governance and Development.
He was also a respected Pipe Keeper who was deeply committed to preserving and sharing traditional knowledge.
LLRIB says McKenzie learned to identify and gather traditional medicines and was always willing to use that knowledge to help those in need.
McKenzie is being remembered for his generosity, wisdom and willingness to share his knowledge. He also valued the northern way of life and enjoyed time on the land as a trapper, hunter and fisherman.
A wake service will be held at 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 8, at Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Stanley Mission. A funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. Thursday, July 9, at the same location.