PIC RIVER FIRST NATION - The grand chief of the Anishinabek Nation is praising the contributions to economic development made by the late Byron LeClair.
LeClair died unexpectedly on July 26 at the age of 49.
A traditional ceremony will be held Tuesday, August 1 on the Pic River First Nation.
In a news release, Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee describes LeClair as "a real economic development dynamo," noting his involvement in hydro projects, forestry and mining.
He served as chief and council member for Biigtigong Nishnaabeg (Ojibways of the Pic River First Nation) for eight years, but is best known for his leadership in the establishment of three operating hydro-electric facilities and a full service forestry company owned by the community.
Madahbee said LeClair was also known for aboriginal rights advocacy.
