Jennifer Pritchett
Northern News Services

CORAL HARBOUR (Jun 17/98) - Andrew Ningeocheak will always remember the last time he went hunting with his grandfather.

That's how the 16-year-old from Coral Harbour would like to think of Tooma Netser, who died in a hospital in Winnipeg early last Wednesday morning.

Netser, 69, was medevaced out of Coral Harbour June 4 after developing heart problems, according to his grandson.

Ningeocheak said his grandfather died because of a blockage in a valve that leads to his heart.

Netser was a respected hunter who was known for making traditional tools in the community where he had been a long-time resident.

"He was a carver, but mostly made tools like harpoons," he said.

Netser, who worked at the Coral Harbour Housing Association prior to his retirement, was the father of nine children, eight of whom are still living. He is also survived by his wife, Annie Netser, who still lives in the community.

The soft-spoken teen said he would like his grandfather to be remembered as a kind, generous man who was liked by many people.

Ningeocheak said he was close to his grandfather and has many memories of him. His favorite, however, will always be their last hunting trip together.

"I remember going hunting with him on the land last year," he said. "It was the last time."

As of late last week, plans for Netser's funeral had yet to be finalized, but Ningeocheak expected the service to take place at the community hall either on Saturday or Monday.