Peter Powder, the former Chief of the Mikisew Cree First Nation, has passed away.

Powder was elected as the Chief of MCFN in 2020 and served until 2022, leading the First Nation through the challenges of the pandemic.

While in office, Powder played a vital role in establishing an energy partnership with the Fort Chipewyan Metis, Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, and MCFN.

As Chief, Powder signed an accord with the Government of Canada to protect woodland caribou.

The Athabasca Tribal Council said that Powder always led with kindness, and encouraged others to do the same.

Condolences poured in across social media describing Powder as a kind-hearted and empathetic individual with a great sense of humour, who was strongly devoted to his family and the community.