Six Nations Mourns the Passing of Former Elected Councillor Linda Staats
On February 27, 2023, while surrounded by family, former Six Nations of the Grand River Elected Councillor Linda Staats began her journey to the spirit world. Linda was Councillor for District #5 under the Fifty-Second Elected Council from 2001 to 2004.
Linda was an educator of the Six Nations community. She was dedicated to advocating for proper education on our territory and knew the need for a strategy and a plan for this sector. Linda was the Founding Chief Executive Officer of Six Nations Polytechnic from 1993 to 2009. Additionally, Linda was a principal in Northern Ontario and later the Principal of Kawenniio/Gaweniyo for several years. “Kawenni:io/Gaywenni:yo (K/G) Immersion Elementary and High School families, students, staff, and board members send condolences to the family of Linda Staats. Linda served as Principal of K/G from 2014 to 2020. She accepted a call to serve as Principal after the passing of the former Principal. This was a challenging period, but Linda was able to successfully and competently navigate the school through this trying time due to her strength, knowledge, and skills as a principal, acquired over years in education. She understood the meaning of the K/G education philosophy importance to the community. Her contribution to keeping the program intact will never be forgotten and we are thankful for her service at K/G. May she rest in the arms of the creator.” Said Chair Ruby Jacobs, on behalf of Kawenni:io/Gaywenni:yo.
Six Nations of the Grand River Elected Council would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Linda Staats, we hope they are comforted and encouraged by the love surrounding them during this difficult time. Our thoughts, prayers, and good medicine are with her loved ones as we mourn and reflect on her magnificent contributions to Six Nations throughout her marvelous life. “We are honoured to be able to witness Linda’s work and advocacy for the Six Nations community. Her leadership and mentorship of many Six Nations families will not be forgotten,” said current Elected Chief Mark B. Hill. “Linda’s wisdom and knowledge will live on through many generations who had the privilege to learn and be mentored by her through their educational journeys.”
Visitation will take place at Styres Funeral Home in Ohsweken, Wednesday, March 1, 2023, an evening service for all will begin at 7 pm. The funeral will take place at the funeral home Thursday, March 2nd at 2:00 pm with a reception to follow at Six Nations Polytechnic.