Communities across the North are mourning the loss of Ted Blondin, a respected and inspirational Tłı̨chǫ leader recognized for his lifelong work and advocacy across the territory.
Ted Blondin passed away on April 4 surrounded by his family including his wife Violet. The Tłı̨chǫ Nation paid tribute to Blondin in an April 10 announcement:
“The Tłı̨chǫ Nation mourns the loss of a man who was an inspiration and leader throughout our Tłı̨chǫ communities and across the North. Ted Blondin will be greatly missed and will always be remembered for his guidance in negotiating and advancing the rights of the Tłı̨chǫ and Indigenous peoples across the north.
“Ted led a life of service with a profound passion for life. He embraced every aspect of his existence with acceptance and joy. Most recently, Ted served as the Chairperson of the Tłı̨chǫ Community Services Agency (TCSA), where he advocated for education, health and the well-being of all Tłı̨chǫ citizens in our communities. His vision and high expectations will continue to guide the TCSA into the future.
“Ted’s intelligence and quick wit consistently pushed for the rights of Tłı̨chǫ citizens and the people of the North in every role he held. Ted was a true servant of the people and took this responsibility very seriously. As an educator and visionary, Ted shared his stories and knowledge generously. His kindness, gentle nature, and strong sense of humor were gifts he offered to many. Ted loved to tell stories and share life lessons with everyone he met during his travels.
“Ted had an extensive background in politics and business throughout the Northwest Territories. From 1992 to 2005, he worked on the Tłı̨chǫ Agreement negotiating team as a Tłı̨chǫ Land Claim Manager, contributing to the creation of the Tłı̨chǫ Constitution, Self-Government, and Land Claims. After the Tłı̨chǫ Agreement took effect in 2005, Ted became the Chairperson of the TCSA and also served on the Tłı̨chǫ Investment Corporation Board.
“Ted led with passion, wisdom, and a great sense of humor. He loved making people laugh and used this humor to convey his messages and share his knowledge. He was a constant teacher to many. He believed deeply in the Tłı̨chǫ Government, the significance of self-government, and the right of all Tłı̨chǫ people to determine their own future, on their own terms. Ted was adamant that young people understood the importance of their legacy by using their voice to create a vision for the future.
“Ted often reflected on the many years he spent travelling away from home, emphasizing the importance of the work he was doing. He also spoke about his family and his love for them, which shone through in every story he shared. It was clear from his words how much he loved and respected his wife, Violet, often recounting stories of their meeting and their adventures together. To Ted’s wife, Violet, and to his children and grandchildren, we extend our deepest condolences for your loss. Ted was a great teacher to his family and all who had the opportunity to meet him.
“Ted will be greatly missed by many, but his legacy and vision will live on in his children, grandchildren, and all those fortunate enough to have known him.
Premier R.J. Simpson issued a statement last week honouring Blondin and extending condolences to Blondin’s family
“Ted Blondin was a remarkable leader whose vision and commitment helped shape the future of the Tłįchǫ Region and the Northwest Territories. His tireless efforts to advance education, health, social well-being, and self-governance—most recently as Chair of the Tłı̨chǫ Community Services Agency—leave a legacy of service that will be felt for generations,” he said.
Premier Simpson acknowledged Blondin’s lifelong work and dedication as a leader in the community.
“He played a pivotal role in negotiating the Tłįchǫ Land Claims and Self-Government Agreement, a landmark achievement that laid the foundation for greater self-determination and governance. As a co-founder of The Native Press, he championed Indigenous voices and ensured they were heard and preserved during a transformative period in Northern history,” said Simpson.
Brian Willows, public administrator for Hay River health services, together with Dan Florizone, public administrator for the N.W.T. health services, made a joint announcement today expressing their condolences and honouring Blondin’s legacy:
“Mr. Blondin was a respected Elder from the Tłįchǫ Region who among many other contributions, played a pivotal role in the health and social services system, not just the Tłįchǫ Region, but across the Northwest Territories,” said Willows and Florizone of their friend and colleague.
Willows and Florizone praised Blondin’s unwavering commitment to the Leadership Council and his work to ensure that the voices of all people across the region were represented. They praised his dedication to propel needed changes to health and social services across the territory.
Willows and Florizone acknowledged that there was so much Blondin achieved in his everyday actions and by talking with people. With compassion, understanding and intelligence Blondin continually forged meaningful relationships with people across the territory.
The Tłı̨chǫ Nation celebrated and honoured Blondin’s unwavering spirit as a leader, organizer and advocate.
“Ted’s passion for life and service was evident in his roles, including Chairperson of the Tłı̨chǫ Community Services Agency, where he advocated for education, health and well-being. His Intelligence, quick wit and humour were gifts he shared generously. Ted’s legacy in politics and business, especially his work on the Tłı̨chǫ Agreement will continue to inspire future Generations.”
