One of the founding members of the Métis Nation of Ontario, Brad Maggrah has died.
Brad spent the better part of the last three decades training and supporting Métis citizens across the province. Brad was one of the first Provisional Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario (PCMNO) Councillors for Region 2 and served on the PCMNO from 1995 – 1999.
In 1995, he was a member of the team negotiating with the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) for hunting rights for Métis.
While a PCMNO Councillor , Brad helped to establish community councils in Kenora and Dryden, as well as the Northwest Métis Council in Wabigoon.
At the same time, Brad was also the Vice-President of the Dryden Community Centre.
“Brad worked tirelessly to advocate for Métis rights and was an integral member to the foundation of our organization,” said Chair of the Métis Nation of Ontario France Picotte. “We recognize and appreciate his great work for the MNO.”
His father, a Métis born in Wakaw Saskatchewan, (near Batoche) later settled in Wabigoon where Brad and his six siblings were born and raised.
Brad began a 20-year career in logging at the Dryden Paper Company, as a log hauler. Then, in 1973, he moved to Grand Cache, Alberta to work in the coal mines, operating heavy equipment.
When Brad returned to Ontario he combined his logging skills with his knowledge of heavy equipment, and worked as a logging contractor in Sioux Lookout.
Brad then moved to Ear Falls where he expanded his contracting business by purchasing his own heavy equipment. It was there that Brad also trained Métis in the use of heavy machinery.
Brad was recognized with Queen’s Jubilee medal, and also with an Eagle feather from the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples for his work fighting for indigenous rights.
A celebration of life and an internment will take place at an as-yet-unannounced date.
If friends so desire, donations can be made to Brad Maggrah’s Celebration of Life, c/o Kathleen Maggrah, through Dryden Community Funeral Home, 249 Grand Trunk Ave., Dryden, ON, P8N 2X3.
Published January 27, 2020