(Ottawa, ON) – It is with great sadness that Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Chief Perry Bellegarde extends his condolences to the loved ones of Elder Stephen Frost Sr. and all those who were taught by his stories and example.
“It is always tragic when family and friends lose an Elder, but a man like Stephen Frost Sr. had an impact that reached farther than most,” said AFN National Chief Perry Bellegarde. “A Vuntut Gwitchin storyteller, historian, dog team racer and trapper, Mr. Frost was an ambassador for the Yukon. In his later years, he loudly warned about Climate Change and the changes that someone who lived as close to the land as he has experienced and witnessed. Mr. Frost is preceded by his wife and the mother of his 11 children, Ethel Frost, who was also a leader within the community and a person of great influence. Old Crow has lost a great and well-loved man. Please know, there are many who share in your sorrow.”
Growing up, Mr. Frost lived largely in the Bluefish River area, but moved to Old Crow, YK, when it was time for he and his wife to raise their children. He truly enjoyed being on the land and was a champion dog team racer and a trapper. In his later years, he loved to share stories from Vuntut Gwitchin history and culture.
Yukon Regional Chief Kluane Adamek also sends her thoughts and condolences to Mr. Frost’s loved ones.
“We stand with the Frost family, Vuntut Gwitchin, Gwitchin Nation, and friends of the late Stephen Frost Sr. as we mourn the loss of a great leader, said Regional Chief Adamek.
“He was a truly extraordinary man who led a remarkable life. He lived through many world changes, but throughout this time he remained steadfast in his commitment to climate action and the protection of the porcupine caribou herd, and Gwitchin culture and way of life. His commitments and actions had a profound impact on his people, and so many of us who live in the North. I will continue to cherish these memories, but what I will miss most of all is his openness and kindness – taking the time to welcome people with a smile and visit over a cup of tea. Mahsi Cho to the Frost family for sharing this special person with us.”
The AFN is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Updates.
For more information please contact:
Michael Hutchinson
Interim Communications Director
Assembly of First Nations
613-859-6831 (cell)
[email protected]
Karen Joyner
Communications Officer
Assembly of First Nations
613-292-0857 (cell)
[email protected]