Anishinabek Nation mourns passing of influential educator
ANISHINABEK NATION HEAD OFFICE, Nipissing First Nation (July 29, 2017)—Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee is deeply saddened to announce the passing of a great educator from Wikwemikong Unceded Indian Reserve, Stephen Fox.
“My heart-felt condolences go to his wife Monica, his three children and grandchildren, and family,” expressed Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee. “I’d also like to extend my condolences to his community, and all of the students he taught and were impacted by him, and his colleagues who had the pleasure of working alongside of him. His absence will be felt. He was a really great man who always had a big smile on his face. He will be missed.”
Fox was well-known for his passion for children and was evident through his lengthy teaching career. His commitment to children extend beyond the four walls of his classroom, as he would often be found playing outside with the children at recess.
“Stephen was very dedicated to the community, but especially to the kids and to education,” stated Grand Council Chief. “He helped shape the young minds of the future.”
Fox taught for 34 years. In that time, he held the position of Principal and was also a Post-Secondary Counsellor.
Additionally, Fox served as the On-Site Coordinator for the Manitoulin-North Shore (MNS) Aboriginal Teacher Education Program (ATEP) through Queen’s University Faculty of Education. He also participated as a MNS ATEP Management Committee Member.
In addition to teaching, Fox was also known for being very athletic. He was an avid runner having participated in many marathons and races, but particularly enjoyed the local Wiky Road Race.
Fox enjoyed hockey among other sports, but most enjoyed them when it involved his granddaughters. He would be seen spending his time at tracks and arenas watching them in their sporting events. His granddaughters participated in the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) and Little NHL and Fox could be found cheering them on at the sidelines.
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Laura Barrios, ROJ Communications Officer
Phone : 705-497-9127 ext. 2239
Email : laura.barrios@anishinabek.ca
