It is with profound sadness and grief to announce the passing of “Mizinaa-sigési” Arnold Gardner.
He leaves behind his wife Florence, sons Jordan (Derek), and Marlon (Claudette), and grandchildren Trenton, Bailey, Mackenzie, Kentley, Seguin Ray and Hudson, sisters Virgie (Frank) and Margaret, and brother Patrick, with too many cousins, nieces, and nephews to mention.
He is predeceased by son Jeffrey, and brothers Maurice, Stanley, Philip, and Alan, and sisters Minnie, Mary, and Linda.
He started out working in education as a student counsellor in 1980 for Eagle Lake Band. He entered politics in 1990 as Chief. He was one of the longest serving Chiefs in the Treaty 3 Area. He became Grand Chief in 2004 until 2008. He was instrumental in progressing Eagle Lake Band in education, housing, infrastructure, economic development, and the environment.
He walked across Canada in 2006 to promote healing and wellness for all Indigenous Nations.
He was an astute politician who said what he had to say in a quiet manner to all levels of government.
Condolences(7)-
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Janis Wessel says
June 2, 2023 at 7:04 pmFlorence & family. Our sincerest condolences to you. I’m so thankful to have known Arnold abd that our paths have crossed. May The Creator bring comfort and peace to everyone. 🌷🙏🌷
Bev Smith says
June 3, 2023 at 5:14 amMy heartfelt condolences to all my family Arnold will be missed he was a great man who was and is still loved by everyone….
gordon kockodon says
June 3, 2023 at 2:40 pmIm sorry to all family for thier loss my prayers and thoughts of all in this time of grief
Joyce Mohr says
June 4, 2023 at 12:25 pmTo one of my best friends, Florence and too her sons and families!! We are heartbroken to learn of Arnold’s passing! I called him ‘Chief’, which he found humour in!! I’ve known Arnold my whole life and always found him a very quiet but spiritual person, giving his quiet perspective on life!
Everyone treated equal and fair, one of the reasons I admired him so much!! His philosophy in his teachings were heartfelt and I’ll always remember when I was visiting their home afew yrs ago when his oldest granddaughter was there as he told her….’remember my girl, you are important!!❤️❤️❤️
Forever in our hearts—Rest in Peace ‘Chief’🌻
Dale MacKenzie says
June 4, 2023 at 8:18 pmThe Eagle Lake Farabout Peninsula Coalition was saddened to hear about the recent passing of Chief Arnold Gardner. Chief Gardner was a long term and important source of support to the Coalition in our mutual goal to permanently protect Farabout Peninsula from clearcutting. As a strong environmentalist he often highlighted the historical and spiritual significance of Farabout to Migisi Sahgaigan. We admired his commitment and tenacity in attending and leading ceremonies at the Farabout meeting site, even when it was evident the effort expended his energy. We will miss his guidance, his wisdom, and his humour.
Wilda Nystrom. says
June 5, 2023 at 9:06 pmMy condolences to the family of Arnold Gardner.
Adam Kilfoyle says
June 9, 2023 at 2:49 pmI was deeply saddened to hear that Chief Gardner had passed away. He was kind, gentle and respected: a true leader.
On behalf of George Christie and my colleagues at Heartland CPAs, I express our deep condolences to Arnold’s family and all the members of Eagle Lake First Nation.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, 1400-522 University Dr. Toronto, ON M5G 2R5