Mahsi cho, Mr. Speaker. Today I would like to send my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the late Justin John Catholique of Lutselk’e.

Justin passed away in his home on July 25th of this

year. A funeral service was held in his memory on August 3rd .

Justin was born October 11, 1981. He was only 32 years old. Justin attended Lutselk’e Dene School, also participating in training programs offered in the community for small periods of time, where he learned valuable skills such as small engines and mechanics.

Justin lived in his own log house across from his father. He was a loving, caring, hardworking, natural mechanic. He did not have an opportunity to marry or have children, yet he provided for his nieces and nephews by helping take care of them and he loved them very much.

Justin was a natural hunter and trapper. When winter came, he was always ready to set traps and go hunting. He was always ready to share with the elders and the community. He lived in the bush for periods of time, sometimes all winter. Justin also participated in community hunts and assisted students when they went out on the land on school trips. He taught students valuable bush skills and how to survive on the land. He spoke Denesoline

language fluently and always spoke Denesoline to his people.

Justin was predeceased by his grandmother, the late Annie Catholique; and grandfather, Gerome Catholique, both of Lutselk’e. The late Annie Catholique was famous for her midwifery skills and delivered many children during her time. Justin is survived by his father, Charlie Catholique; his mother, Verna Catholique; and siblings Shawn, Sheldon, Shawna and Jeremy.

Again, I pass my deepest condolences on to Justin’s father, mother, brothers, sisters and many nieces, who Justin loved very much. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.