Senator Helen Bradley, 1934-2010

Senator Helen BradleyEven as the Métis Nation of Ontario mourns the loss of Todd Saulnier, the husband of Region 7 PCMNO Councillor Pauline Saulnier, we have learned of the passing of Helen Bradley, Senator for the Georgian Bay Métis Council.

Senator Bradley was well-known and well-loved throughout the Métis Nation. I am very grateful that a few weeks ago I had the chance to visit her in her home in Penetanguishene. I visited her at that time because I could not attend a later event honouring her contributions to the MNO and Georgian Bay Métis Council, but I wanted to make sure she knew how much the MNO valued her contributions and dedication to our cause. I can not say enough about Senator Bradley. She was a founder of the Georgian Bay Métis Council, instrumental in the Council getting its charter and a respected leader within the MNO. She continued to be involved in MNO committees and meetings right up to her passing and if it had not been for an unfortunate fall, she would have attended this year’s AGA.

Senator Bradley’s many contributions were recognized in 2008, by the province of Ontario, when she received the Ontario Medal of Service (OMC).

Senator Helen Bradley OMC passed away October 21. She was born in Penetanguishene on September 25, 1934. She was predeceased by her husband Helmut Schmidt and survived by her sisters and brother, two children, three grandchildren and one great grandchild. Also surviving are numerous nieces, nephews and cherished friends.

A celebration of Senator Bradley’s life will take place in Penetanguishene in about one month.

Gary Lipinski
President
Métis Nation of Ontario