In June this year, Elder Jacob Sanderson of James Smith Cree Nation offered a message on World Peace and Prayer Day (YouTube)

By paNOW Staff

Community Leader

Remembering Elder Jacob Sanderson

Nov 2, 2020 | 5:30 PM

A well-known mentor, educator and Elder is being remembered by the Prince Albert community.

Elder Jacob Sanderson passed away on Saturday. He was a spiritual advisor with the Prince Albert Grand Council, the Saskatchewan Penitentiary, and offered guidance to the Prince Albert Police Service since May 2019 to help get towards reconciliation.

In a statement, PAGC Chief Brian Hardlotte said Sanderson was a humble man who was spiritual from a young age.

“He learned the ways of the Elders he served and respected,” he said. “He learned the ways of our people. He had a vision for the future for our people. This vision was always guided by the Creator and Grandfathers. Jacob was a spiritual man but also humble. He lived the life of an Elder.”

Hardlotte went on to explain Sanderson wanted no more than shelter, food and clothes for he and his family. He also said Sanderson’s quiet ways were admired and his character made people comfortable.

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“They felt they would like to be his friend and to seek his advice and counsel,” Hardlotte said in the statement. “Jacob will be remembered for his pride and love for his people, his ceremonial work in practicing and preserving First Nations culture and traditions, and his commitment and dedication toward peace and reconciliation.”

Sanderson was a leader in giving spiritual support and led ceremonies for the Prince Albert Police Service, Saskatoon Health District and Wanuskewin Heritage Park.

This past summer Harlotte said it was important for Sanderson to bring together the sector Elders and put out a message for World Peace and Prayer day as their communities were impacted by the pandemic.

“Once again, we send our deepest condolences to Elder Jacob Sanderson’s family, friends, and all those in grief. He would often look down and shake his head, and then state, ‘we don’t know when we will be called.’ Jacob Sanderson was a man of distinguished humanity and he will be forever in our hearts and prayers,” Hardlotte said.

The Prince Albert Police Service also sent a public message of condolences to Sanderson’s family and the PAGC.

“Having him work within our police organization meant local members and staff had the opportunity to learn from him as well and develop a better understanding of traditional teachings and beliefs, which in turn, informs their work in public safety,” Police board chair Sheryl Kimbley said.

Police Chief Jon Bergen said Sanderson’s role was an important part of the police’s efforts to encourage positive relationships in the community.

“Elder Sanderson was with us when our organization marked the grand opening of our police substation one year ago, and we were honoured to have him bless this new facility with honour and tradition,” Bergen said. “Our members and staff have all benefitted from his knowledge and wisdom, and I trust that his work will continue to guide us in a meaningful way.”

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panews@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @princealbertnow