Mr. James Eugene Hunter of Saddle Lake Cree Nation passed on to meet the creator on November 27, 2020 at the age of 86 years.
James was born on the way to the hospital in St. Paul on April 10th, 1934, the son of late George & Annie Hunter. He was raised & lived his life on the Saddle Lake reserve, where he was an active member of the community. James loved his community of Saddle Lake. He worked on the family farm as well as running heavy road equipment, while raising his young family. He later headed the ARDA project, which involved harvesting the lands, raising buffalo and cattle for the nation. James served several terms as a councilman for the Saddle Lake Cree Nation, following and alongside of his father’s footsteps. He also managed the road’s department for many years, putting in his working life all within Cree Nation. James also enjoyed his farm life working with cattle and horses, and harvesting the fields. He was an active member of the Horseman Club for many years.
James loved his people and accepted everyone; he had a way of making you feel special to him. Special mention to Victor Houle, Eddy Makokis, Robbie Moosewah, Donald Delver, Brian Cardinal, Kevin Delver, Jason Whiskeyjack & Richard Cardinal. He loved his family, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, picking no favorites. He loved all animals, especially horses and dogs. He loved to have family gatherings and birthday parties with all his friends! COVID -19 really put a damper on social gatherings and it left him feeling lonely at times because of visiting restrictions.
James is survived by his children, Greg (Vivian), Ann, Anthony (Brenda), Kathleen, Jeremy & Bob; step-children, Janice, Beverly, Jocelyn & Barbara (Kevin); 30 grandchildren & 32 great-grandchildren; siblings, Beatrice Campbell, Helen Huppie, Joanne (Dee) Higgins & Robert (Janet) Hunter; adopted brothers & sisters, Emily Moosewah, Christina Cardinal, Irene Cardinal, Doris Cardinal, Valerie Cruz, Sam Cardinal & John (Caroline) Yewchin. He was predeceased by his parents, George & Annie; uncle, David; brother, Raymond; sister, Noreen Henderson; grandson, Kristopher D.; brothers-in-law, Reg Campbell, James Huppie & Kenneth Stone.
Due to Covid-19 restrictions, cremation has taken place & a Celebration of James’ Life will be held at a later date. To send condolences online, please visit www.gracegardensfuneralchapel.com.
GRACE GARDENS FUNERAL CHAPEL, 5626 - 51 Street, St. Paul, AB T0A 3A1 780-645-2677
