Ontario Regional Chief Isadore Day offers condolences to the family of former Magnetawan Chief Wilmer Noganosh

Toronto, ON (July 27, 2016) –On behalf of the Chiefs of Ontario Regional Chief Day offers sincere condolences to the family and community of Magnetawan after former Chief Wilmer Noganosh passed away this morning.

“Wilmer spent a lot of time on the land and near the water and dedicated himself to protecting the land for the future,” said Regional Chief Day. “As a residential school survivor, a father of five, he was a firm believer in sovereignty and its basis for treaties and lived his life sharing his wisdom with others. He will be missed by many.”

Wilmer Noganosh was chief of Magnetawan from 1969 to 1979 helping establish the community in its current location along Highway 69. He also served as chief from 2001-2005 where he said his goal was to ensure that there was land left in the community for future generations.

A graduate of Laurentian University he believed “the best university is life itself.” His Anishinaabe name was Zhaabwadondung (True Voice) and he received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 14th annual Anishinabek Evening of Excellence in 2012.

The Chiefs of Ontario is an advocacy organization, and a secretariat for collective decision making, action, and advocacy for the 133 First Nation communities located within the boundaries of the province of Ontario, Canada.