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Media Release – CAFN mourns the loss of Elder Harold Kane

Media Release – CAFN mourns the loss of Elder Harold Kane

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 30, 2023

Statement mourning the loss of Elder Harold Kane

Dakwäkäda (Haines Junction, Yukon Territory) – Champagne and Aishihik First Nations (CAFN) is mourning the loss of our Citizen and community member, Harold Kane (Yäwatà), born on September 19, 1948. Harold passed away Sunday, August 27, surrounded by his loved ones in Canyon.

He was from Klukshu/Dalton Post and part of the Hutchi family. A true example of dän shawthän (a good person) and a trailblazer for our nation. He signed the original “Together Today for Our Children Tomorrow” that began our land claims more than 50 years ago and became an effective land claims negotiator.

In 1980 he was hired to be the General Manager for Champagne Aishihik Enterprise. This business made a significant contribution towards forging relationships in Dakwäkäda (Haines Junction) and our Champagne Aishihik community.

Harold was a devoted worker and a problem solver. He built our communities, roads, houses and infrastructure we see today. Harold served many years on Council and as Deputy Chief. He was as a dedicated employee, beginning his career in 1972 and retiring in 2006 as CAFN’s Director of Housing and Municipal Department.

Harold was a respected Crow Elder in our nation and our people relied on his cultural knowledge and expertise towards traditional naming. He would ensure that Citizens fully understood the responsibility one carries with the traditional name they are given.

Harold played hockey and was Captain for the CA Bruins at the Yukon Native Hockey Tournament for many years until he became a coach. He was a fantastic coach – the team always listened to him!

Harold continued to serve our nation as a member of the Champagne Aishihik Trust, CAFN Lands Committee and Elders Senate until his passing.

A Celebration of Life for Harold will be held at Shadhäla (Champagne Hall) on Friday, September 1, at 1 p.m. Harold will be making his final journey home from the Heritage North Funeral Home Thursday, August 31 at 11 am, for those who wish to join the procession.

CAFN extends our deepest condolences to all of Harold’s family and friends.

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For more information:

cafn.ca
Jenna Henderson, A/Strategic Communications Manager
(867) 334-6264
[email protected]