SHEGUIANDAH— Chief Clarence Richard Shawanda (62) passed away on Wednesday, June 24 at home following a lengthy illness. Chief Shawanda was most recently elected to the head of the Sheguiandah band council in the 2013 election that followed a tumultuous council term that had appeared to rend the community into at least two feuding camps leading to a significant disruption in the administration of band services, but Chief Shawanda’s election returned a measure of stability to the community.
“I’ve known Richard since Grade 2,” said Grand Council Chief Madahbee in an Anishinaabek Nation release announcing Chief Shawanda’s passing. “I really got to know him well at the tribal council level on Manitoulin Island,” said Chief Madahbee. “He was one of those chiefs who didn’t say much, but when he did, he came from a different viewpoint and made a profound statement.”
“My condolences go out to his family, friends and the Sheguiandah community,” continued Chief Madahbee.
Chief Shawanda served as chief of the Sheguiandah First Nation for a total of 12 years, most recently being elected to that post in 2013, but he had also served as a councillor on the band council for many years as well.
Chief Shawanda was noted for his rich sense of humour and generous nature. His funeral service was held on Saturday June 27 at 11 am, with Father Henk Van Meijel officiating. Burial followed at the Sheguiandah First Nation cemetery.
