The Tsuu T’ina Nation is mourning the death of former Chief Gordon Crowchild.
A great leader
Crowchild’s death was announced Monday by Chief Roy Whitney, who called him ‘a great leader’ who ‘will be remembered for achievements in the many roles that he lived.
In a statement, on behalf of the Nation, Chief Whitney said Crowchild was instrumental in establishing the ‘economic foundation and building blocks’ for the success that Tsuu T’ina enjoys today.
He even had a role in the early negotiation of the southwest Calgary ring road.
Passion for rodeo
Chief Crowchild also had a passion for rodeo, starting at the age of 15 when he entered the boy’s steer riding.
His career included outriding for his father’s chuckwagon outfit, “David Crowchild and Sons”.
“He (Chief Crowchild) helped many young and upcoming cowboys live their dreams and he, himself, competed at the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) and the Pro Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) level for many years,” according to a news release.
For years, professional cowboys would seek him out at the Calgary Stampede to ‘share a story or two’.
In 2005 Chief Crowchild was inducted into the Canadian Professional Rodeo Hall of Fame Legends.
The Tsuu T’ina Nation is planning a state funeral for Chief Crowchild, whose father hailed from a lineage of lifetime chiefs.
Dates for the viewing and funeral will be announced later.
The Tsuu T’ina Nation is assisting the family to ensure ‘all of his family, relatives, and friends have an opportunity to pay their respects and say goodbye’.
Chief Gordon Crowchild is survived by his wife of 57 years, Maria Crowchild and many other family members.
He was 85.
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