After living in Arctic Bay for six years and serving as the hamlet's senior administrative officer, Cecil Marshall is leaving his post and heading south. He said he'll miss the community. - photo courtesy of Cecil Marshall

Before moving to Arctic Bay he believed Northern Ontario was the Far North, but not anymore. One of the first things he remembers observing when he arrived was a woman wearing an amauti.

"You just don't see that in Ontario," he explained.

Now, six years later, Marshall and his wife will return to Perth with, in his words, many beautiful memories.

Occupationally speaking, Marshall is pretty content too.

"I have fulfilled all the duties of the position of SAO. Now, we can retire from Arctic Bay," he said.

Marshall is very proud of the accomplishments the council of Arctic Bay has made. He said as of last year, the hamlet council was named one of the best-run municipalities by Nunavut's Department of Community Government and Transportation.

He said he is also happy to say Arctic Bay is the first community in North Baffin to build a morgue.

"Now, when someone passes away, the body can be preserved in a decent manner," he said.

Arctic Bay has grown on Marshall, who attached himself to the culture and people of the area -- even the cooler climate. In his eyes, the Inuit and their traditions are admirable, but not always his cup of tea.

"I must admit, I like my food cooked."