William G. Lathlin

William G. Lathlin

Elder and member of the Board of Directors
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority

Elder William G. Lathlin: A Journey of Wisdom and Service

Elder William G. Lathlin, a prominent figure in the Opaskwayak Cree Nation community, was born on January 28, 1941. His formative years were shaped by the invaluable teachings of his parents, Liz and George Lathlin, as well as his grandparents, Horace Whitehead and Mary Lathlin. Growing up in the winter camps, William, alongside his three sisters and three brothers, developed essential survival skills such as trapping, fishing, and hunting within their ancestral lands. Resourceful and self-reliant, he even learned the art of crafting his own snowshoes, sleds, and tools.

In the course of his life, William embarked on a remarkable journey. He shared fifty-seven blissful years of marriage with his late wife, Myra, and together they nurtured a loving family. Their union blessed them with three sons, two daughters, nine grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren, a testament to the enduring legacy they built.

William's educational pursuits commenced at the Prince Albert Residential School, where he attended from 1950 to 1954, obtaining a Grade 4 education. His thirst for knowledge, however, remained unquenchable. Committed to supporting his family, he diligently upgraded his academic skills, achieving a Grade 10 education. This propelled him into diverse trades, where he served as an apprentice and helper before earning a prestigious Millwright Red Seal in the 1970s. To further broaden his horizons, William personally sponsored his own Diploma in Business Management, acquiring invaluable insights into the realms of economy, business, and politics.

The realm of community service beckoned to William, and he wholeheartedly embraced the opportunity to make a difference. For an impressive span of twenty-four years, from 1974 to 1997, he served as a Band Councillor for Opaskwayak. His dedication to public service earned him the position of Chief of Opaskwayak Cree Nation for a term from 1997 to 1999. Afterward, he assumed the mantle of Director of the McGillivary Care Home, diligently overseeing its operations for five years until his retirement.

Even in retirement, William's unwavering commitment to bettering his community persisted. Driven by a genuine concern for community health, education, and socio-economic development, he actively involved himself in various initiatives. He lent his expertise to the advancement of projects such as the Otineka Mall, Joe A. Ross School, and Kikiwak Inn, which sought to uplift the Opaskwayak community. Throughout his extensive career, he also served as a Board Member for several Band and non-Band entities, including the TLE Board, OEA School Board, Aurora House Board, and Norman Regional Health Authority Board.

Recognizing the importance of empowering the younger generation, William dedicated himself to youth and treaty issues. He tirelessly advocated for education, and whenever called upon, willingly shared his knowledge by teaching at schools. Presently, he is spearheading the development of a land-based and traditional teachings program, aimed at engaging disenchanted youth and providing them with a sense of cultural heritage and purpose.

Elder William G. Lathlin's inspiring life journey exemplifies resilience, dedication, and a genuine desire to create positive change within his community. His unwavering commitment to education, community development, and Indigenous leadership serves as an enduring testament to his profound impact and unwavering legacy.