He was a man that seemed bigger than life. Eli Baxter, our dear friend and chief guide at Makokibatan Lodge passed away this past week from complications associated with surgery to replace his knees.  He was 89 years of age.

He lived his life in the Ojibway traditional way.  During his youth, his family lived in a 13 x 14 foot cabin, even in the cold Ontario winters while he worked his trap lines on Washi Lake. His father taught him to make snow shoes from birch saplings and moose sinews. In addition to his professional guiding for us, he was involved in First Nation Reserve political leadership in Marten Falls and Fort Hope.

We have a podcast interview with Eli’s son, Robert, recorded in February of 2010, just after  Eli’s 87th birthday…click here to listen.

We are gathering your condolences and fond memories for a booklet we will prepare for the family.  Just e-mail them to us and we will include them in our booklet. We will remember and miss him.  His was a well-lived and honourable life.

Rest in Peace, Eli.
Alan Cheeseman

Eli’s Obituary:

Published: Thursday, May 17, 2012