A former Grand Council Chief for the Anishinabek Nation has died.
According to AnishinabekNews.ca Vernon Roote passed away Friday, August 4.
He became Chief of the Chippewas of Saugeen First Nation in 1994, then Deputy Grand Council Chief in 1996, before being elected as Grand Council Chief of the Anishinabek Nation from 1999 to 2002.
“Vernon Roote-baa was a highly respected Grand Council Chief of the Anishinabek Nation,” Grand Council Chief Reg Niganobe told AnishinabekNews.ca. “He held a vision, and early on in his elected position, asked for help from Head Getzit, Gordon Waindubence-baa to build a Nation for the Anishinabek.”
Niganobe added Vernon-baa’s contributions have left a lasting legacy and have helped the Anishinabek Nation make advances on behalf of its 39 communities to better serve the Anishinabek Nation.
“Staff, citizens, and Anishinabek Nation Chiefs will remember Vernon Roote-baa as a kind, strong and friendly leader and a gentle warrior, who was truly a people person and could speak strongly at all levels. He connected with all wherever he went,” said Grand Council Chief Niganobe.
“We will truly miss him but will remember his great service and contributions, for which we will be forever indebted.”