Minister of Aboriginal Affairs Brad Duguid released the following statement concerning the sudden passing of Chief Bob Kelly of the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation:

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Chief Kelly, who I was honoured to have had the pleasure to meet. He was a man who was highly respected by all who knew him, First Nations and government representatives alike. To those who knew him well, he was a man who understood the importance of family and was a champion for education in his community.

"Chief Kelly's long record of public service was driven by his commitment to the Ojibway Nation. The dedication he showed was an inspiration to many and will survive him into the future.

We send our deepest condolences to Chief Kelly's wife and family, to his niece Ogichidaakwe Diane Kelly of Treaty #3 and the Ojibway Nation for the loss of such a cherished and respected leader."