Anishinabek, Little NHL, mourn loss of long-time volunteer

UOI OFFICES Nipissing FN (April 10, 2016) — Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee sends his condolences to the family and friends of George Francis of Whitefish River First Nation.  George passed into the Spirit World on April 9 at the age of 73.

“George was a long time friend of mine,” says Grand Council Chief Madahbee.  “He enjoyed sports – especially hockey.  George volunteered with the Little NHL and demonstrated to others the importance of volunteering and giving back to the community.  George was an advocate for promoting Anishinaabemowin, education and recreation.”

In 2004, George received an Anishinabek Nation Lifetime Achievement Award  for his many contributions to the First Nation community and his community of Whitefish River First Nation.  He was inducted into the Little NHL Hall of Fame as a builder, dedicating 45 years to the hockey players of the Little NHL.

George is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Lulubelle Francis (Toulouse) and his children; Aldric (Melinda), Debbie (Chris) Osbourne,  Jeff (Debbie), and Corinna (Doug) Spencer.