Johnny Nitsiza "a strong leader"
Glen Vienneau
Northern News Services
Wha Ti (Jan 22/01) - Wha Ti elder Johnny Nitsiza died Jan. 12, after a battle with cancer. He was 68.
The former chief and Treaty 11 band councillor was well known throughout the Dogrib communities and within the MacKenzie valley, said his son-in-law Nick Mantla of Wha Ti.
"He was a strong leader. When he spoke, everybody listened," said Mantla.
He was a trapper, hunter and fisherman. He built homes in his community and earned the reputation as community developer and town planner.
By 1970, he got involved with land claim negotiations and was one of Treaty 11's first councillors.
He also captured the attention of residents when he took part in drum dances during the opening and closing for various events.
"He was one of the best (drummer)," said Mantla.
"He used to make people laugh, he was a person who was never sad and was happy."
Before Christmas, people from Deline, Rae Lakes, Rae, Snare Lake, Dettah and Hay River Reserve came to Wha Ti to visit, said Lawrence Nitsiza, the elder's nephew.
Lawrence Nitsiza said there was a sense of sadness in the community.
"He is a respected elder," said Nitsiza, "he did a lot for First Nations."
"He liked to tease and joke around and he was always on the land," said Nitsiza.
He is survived by his wife, Dora, six daughters Rita Mantla, Corine Nitsiza, Eva Beaverho, Alice Corbett, Cecilia Nitsiza and Cindy Moosenose, two sons Bobby and Franki Nitsiza and by many grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
The funeral was held Monday in Wha Ti.
