Elder and Knowledge Keeper Clarence Nepinak, a member of Minegoziibe Anishinabe, also known as Pine Creek First Nation, has passed away at the age of 73, after a months-long battle with bone and colon cancer.
Nepinak, along with his wife Barbara, were known for their commitment to preserving and advancing indigenous culture. The couple was both inducted into the Order of Manitoba in 2019 for their work.
Nepinak was a member of the Standing Indigenous Advisory Council at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, which works to identify processes and ideas for more meaningful engagement.
According to Chief Derek Nepinak of Pine Creek First Nation, a distant relative of Clarence, he would still make regular trips to the community for teachings and ceremonies, even as his health deteriorated.
