Fort McPherson (Jan 30/06) - A man family members describe as funny and smart died in a single vehicle accident, Jan. 19.

Charlie Blake died in a car accident, Jan. 19. Blake is remembered by friends and family as an inspired Northerner who respected tradition and the land. - Photo courtesy of the Dehursts family

Charlie Blake was driving to Inuvik from Fort McPherson when his vehicle left the road and rolled over.

RCMP say speed could have been a factor in the crash that occurred around 6:30pm on the Dempster Highway.

Const. Neil Dilworth said two passengers in the vehicle walked away without injuries.

Blake's sister, Mary, says her brother had many talents and placed special importance on education.

"Charlie studied aviation mechanics at Camp Borden in Ontario," said Mary.

"He was in the top three of his class.

"His instructors would phone his dad and tell him how impressed they were of Charlie."

"One instructor said Charlie was a genius."

Mary says her fondest memory of her brother is how he would inspire family and friends to do better in life.

"He was a mentor to friends and family," Mary said.

"Charlie had a respect for the traditional way of life."