Stephen Walsh
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It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden death of Stephen Walsh on Wednesday, July 28, 2021.
Steve is survived by his brother Brian, sister Sue, brother-in-law David, nephews; Ben, Brian (Allison), John (Emilyn) and Adam, niece Lindsay, and grandnieces, Jane and Bella.
Steve visited the Yukon in 1978, as a young man, and he immediately knew it was home. His first job was as a speechwriter for the Council of Yukon First Nations, through which he gained a deep understanding of, and appreciation for, First Nations’ issues. That propelled him to become a lawyer specializing in aboriginal law. After articling with Thomas Berger, Steve returned to the Yukon, and spent his life fighting passionately for First Nations’ right to self governance.
Steve was intelligent, with an insatiable curiosity. He was a deep learner. He had a priceless sense of humour. And he loved the Yukon’s rivers and remote wilderness, books of every kind, good food, and expensive cigars.
He will be missed by the Pizza Night Gang, members of the Kaska Dena Council and Ross River Dena Council, colleagues in the legal community, fellow members of AA, his family and his loyal dog, Flora.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Hootalinqua Fire Hall, Saturday, September 25th, 2:00 pm to 5:00 p.m.
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Comments (10)
Pat Wiens and Tip Evans on Sep 23, 2021 at 10:16 am
We are saddened by Steve’s passing. Our deepest condolences to Steve’s family and friends.
Claire Anderson on Sep 23, 2021 at 8:06 am
So grateful to call Steve both a mentor and a friend. My thoughts are with his friends and family.
Leah Anderson on Aug 21, 2021 at 6:56 pm
My heart aches for Steve's family and friends. I will miss his deep, soothing voice and his beautiful story telling. Rest Well Steve.
Chris Elsner on Aug 16, 2021 at 1:02 pm
My condolences to Steve's family and friends.
Miriam Purtill-O'Herlihy and Robert Hercz on Aug 15, 2021 at 10:07 am
Sincere condolences to the family.
Claire (Girard) Reeves on Aug 12, 2021 at 10:18 am
My sincere condoleances to the family. You are in my prayers.
Barbara Gale on Aug 11, 2021 at 10:51 am
Steve was a one of a kind individual who will be greatly missed. Love and prayers to his family.
Margaret McIntosh on Aug 11, 2021 at 8:19 am
My condolences to Steve's family and friends. Steve and I were acquaintances in law school. Even then he was deeply committed to confirming the legal recognition of the rights of Indigenous Peoples in the Yukon. Clearly Steve's commitment in this regard never waivered.
Denyse Bourgault on Aug 9, 2021 at 5:21 am
My deepest condolences to the family.
Isabel B on Aug 6, 2021 at 8:02 pm
Such a loss. My condolences to the family.