Assembly of First Nations' National Chief Perry Bellegarde Honours Life of Henry Beaudry

OTTAWA, Oct. 6, 2016 /CNW/ - Assembly of First Nations' National Chief, Perry Bellegarde, today issued the following statement on the passing of Henry Beaudry:

"Henry Beaudry is someone I am especially fortunate to have known and learned from. He lived a long and vibrant life, moving many of us through his skillful artistry, strong convictions and gentle demeanor. He was an acclaimed artist, World War II veteran, residential school survivor, and story keeper from Poundmaker Cree Nation in my home province of Saskatchewan.

Beaudry was a man of great spiritual connection to his Cree traditions and, during his entire time in combat, he carried an eagle feather close to protect him. Some may say that feather followed him through to the next chapter of his life. Through paint, Beaudry rendered peaceful landscapes and wildlife into captivating works ― all marked with his signature eagle feather in the bottom right corner. His spirit is sure to live on through these paintings.

I send prayers and condolences to the Beaudry family and to the entire community of Poundmaker Cree Nation as they mourn the passing of this exceptional life. Henry Beaudry will be dearly missed."

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada. Follow AFN on Twitter @AFN_Updates.

SOURCE Assembly of First Nations

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