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Former Nanoose First Nation chief dies

Jan 23, 2017 | 4:14 PM

NANAIMO — Former popular Nanoose First Nation (Snaw-Naw-As) chief David Bob has passed away.

Current chief Brent Edwards says Bob died unexpectedly this past weekend.

He was 62-years-old.

Edwards says Bob had a profound effect in the community and will be sorely missed.

“David’s been a longtime chief and a longtime community leader for Snaw-Naw-As for years. Everybody’s sad here,” he said.

Edwards says Bob advocated hard for the small reserve.

“His legacy is hard work,” said Edwards. “Sticking up for Nanoose and making sure that we get working on specific projects. He was kind to those that needed help and had a long history for standing up for Nanoose.”

Edwards says Bob pushed hard for many important causes, including their Health Centre, which he says is a critical part of their community.

He says adjusting to life without David Bob won’t be easy.

“He’s been a leader, an inspiration, a role model.”