People across the Northwest Territories are remembering Tony Whitford, a former politician and commissioner.
Whitford, who is Métis and grew up in Fort Smith, recently passed away at the age of 83.
He served on Fort Smith’s town council before he was elected to the NWT Legislative Assembly in 1988. He served three terms as an MLA including as a cabinet member and speaker.
In 2005, Whitford was appointed as commissioner of the NWT until his term ended in April 2010.
Beyond his political career, Whitford was also a longtime volunteer with the Yellowknife Rotary Club, obtained a bachelor degree in social work, and worked as a justice of the peace, among other roles.
He was honoured with several awards during his lifetime and was inducted into the Order of the NWT in 2016. He was also an honourary captain with the Royal Canadian Navy.
‘A reassuring and warm figure’
Julian Morse, the MLA for Frame Lake, said he first met Whitford while working as a page in the Legislative Assembly, where Whitford was the sergeant-at-arms at the time.
“He was a reassuring and warm figure in a pretty intimidating setting and I’ve thought fondly of him since,” Morse wrote on Facebook. “He made immeasurable contributions to our community and territory, and will be dearly missed. Condolences to his family and all who are mourning his loss.”
Robert Hawkins, the MLA for Yellowknife Centre, described Whitford as “a kind gentleman and a very good friend to all.”
“We are all truly better for having shared time and memories with you,” Hawkins wrote on Facebook.
In a statement issued on behalf of the NWT Legislative Assembly on Tuesday, Speaker Shane Thompson wrote that Whitford’s legacy is “woven into the very fabric” of the legislature.
“Tony was a cherished presence in our halls. His frequent visits, full of warmth, stories and laughter, brought a special light to the assembly that we will deeply miss,” Thompson wrote.
“I know I speak for staff and members when I say that his absence will leave a void in our hearts. His speaker robes, displayed in the Great Hall, will stand as a lasting tribute to the legacy of service and kindness he left behind, reminding us always of the man he was. He served our territory with dignity and humility, and his warmth, kindness and community spirit will be remembered for years to come.”
In his own statement, Premier RJ Simpson described Whitford as “a staunch supporter, a dedicated servant of the people and a friend,” who was known by MLAs for his “positive spirit and humanity.”
