Colleagues, Wesley Marcellais was born on November 23, 1980, to Adilene Marcellais. He was raised by Elsie and Jonas Marcellais. I can tell you that he loved being on the land, especially when he was out hunting thanks to his parents. The family and community witnessed his skill, and they said that he was a true bush man.
With the tools and skills that were passed down to him, he loved to travel the South Nahanni and the Liard River especially with his brother Steve by his side. They were inseparable growing up together. The community members would say that they were either looking for some fun or for their next adventure.
As I said before, he loved being out on the land and providing for his family. In his early years, he like to spend time at Swan Point with his family. His love of the land was evident in the fall, especially being on the river and in the forest. Thanks to his love of hunting, he had an amazing knife collection. He could spend hours talking about each knife and showing them off.
Wesley was a man of few words and many talents. A lot of time, you would find him outside working on his next project, creating any type of furniture he wanted or sketching incredible drawings. To say that he was known for his carpentry would be an understatement. All you had to do was visit his mother's house. He was able to use limited material and wood supplies at his disposal to repair and improve things at her house.
Wesley was always down for the next adventure that came his way. He took it with great humour and wit.
His two joys of his life were his daughter Emily Marcellais-Hardisty and his partner Synthea Hope. As well, he had the patience like no others. People loved to watch him interact with each other.
Unfortunately, on January 14th, he passed away with his partner in Jean Marie River. He was a caring, loving, talented and exceptional person. His passing will forever change his family. As the family said, it is not good-bye, but it is see you later. He will be sadly missed.
Members' statements. Returns to oral questions. Minister of Health and Social Services.