An announcement from Waap Łagaax Gisbutwada: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kitsumkalum’s esteemed Hereditary Chief, Simoogit ‘Wiidildal, Waap Łagaax Gisbutwada, Chief Don T. Roberts. He passed away on September 15, 2024, with his loving wife, Arlene, by his side. The house would like to extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Arlene, daughter Tammy, Claudine, son Mike and wife Dr. Mique’l Dangeli his grandchildren. Waap Łagaax Gisbutwada would also like to extend its deepest gratitude to Arlene for taking such great care of Don and sharing him with us throughout his many years of service to his people and community.”
September 16, 2024 – Kitsumkalum, BC – Chief Roberts was a driving force behind safeguarding Kitsumkalum’s traditional territory and advancing economic development initiatives for his people. His leadership in Treaty negotiations, Land Claims, and Economic Development was invaluable, ensuring a lasting legacy for future generations. His influence extended beyond Kitsumkalum, with his work as a bridge builder between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, fostering reconciliation efforts that will be remembered for years to come.
Chief Roberts was a strong and fearless force, never one to shy away from a challenge. His leadership, rooted in traditional knowledge and a deep connection to his Tsimshian culture, commanded respect at negotiation tables and in every initiative he undertook. He was a vital figure in the recent initialing of the Kitsumkalum Treaty: A Living Agreement, a milestone that reflected his lifelong dedication to securing a brighter future for his people. We take comfort in knowing he was able to see this achievement realized before his passing.
Chief Don Roberts was a distinguished and steadfast leader whose contributions extended far beyond Kitsumkalum. He was deeply committed to the protection of Aboriginal Rights and Title, as well as the recognition of Kitsumkalum’s ancestral rights, spanning from the coastal waters of Prince Rupert, along the Skeena River, to the mountain ranges inland. He knew our ayaawx/ Tsimshian laws, which prove the recognition of Kitsumkalum’s rightful place on the coast. Yet, he always acknowledged and respected neighboring Tsimshian nations, following in his father’s footsteps by affirming that “we all have our rightful places.” As he often said, “We’re all Tsimshian. We have different house groups, different waaps, but we’re all one.”
As we honour Chief Don’s legacy by carrying forward his vision for the future, here are the arrangements for his memorial and funeral:
Tuesday, September 24th – 1:15pm
Family Viewing at MacKays Funeral Home
5:00pm – Doors open
Memorial Service at REM Lee Theater
Wednesday, September 25th – 1:00pm – Doors open
Funeral Service at REM Lee Theater
Internment to follow at Kitsumkalum Cemetery
5:00pm – Doors open
Waap Łagaax Gisbutwada Settlement Feast at Kitsumkalum Community Hall
Hosts:
Alex Bolton Sm’oogyet Łagaax,
Steve Roberts Ksdiawłgaax, Richard Roberts,
Jim Roberts, Troy Sam Sm’oogyet Ha’uts, Rob Gerow
Monetary donations:
Christina Stanley – csamstanley@gmail.com
Killerwhale food monetary:
Andrea Sam-Good – andreasam@hotmail.ca
For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Troy Sam, 250-922-4512