Gwen Crane

CRANE, GWEN-It is with great sadness that the Crane family of Key First Nation Saskatchewan, announce the passing of their mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother and sister Gwen Crane. Born on Key First Nation in 1930, Gwen exemplified hard work and determination early, and throughout her lifetime. At the age of 24, Gwen became Saskatchewan's first female chief. She was elected under the present electoral system, the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations recently acknowledged this distinction. At a recent Chief's Gathering in Swift Current, the F.S.I.N. honored Gwen and affirmed that not only was she Saskatchewan's first female chief, she was Canada's first female (elected) chief. Gwen fought through many obstacles in her lifetime; experiencing injustices and intolerance against her people and her gender. Gwen's voice always resonated with reason, justice and authority. She set the bar high for many to follow with her leadership style. She always maintained that hard work and education would secure equality for First Nation people in Saskatchewan and Canada. Gwen was an active member of the Anglican Church of Canada for several decades. She was very proud of her faith and served dutifully. Gwen was born Gwendolyn Lucy O'Soup. She married Clifford Crane of Key First Nation following his service in World War II. Children include; Terry (2) of Arcola, Dennis (5) of Yellowknife NWT, Garda (5) of Edmonton AB, Gilda (3) of Thunder Bay ONT, Trent (3) of Port Coquitlam BC, Brenda (2) of Montreal QC, Joy (4) of London ONT, Karen (1) of Tuktoyaktuk NWT, Cliff (5) of Yorkton. Notable grandchildren and greatgranchildren include Cheryl Crane of Vancouver BC and Devon O'Soup of Key First Nation. Surviving brother and sisters include; Raymond Brass of Mikado, Frances Crowfoot of Siksika First Nation and Geraldine Wardman of Edmonton AB. Anglican/Traditional Wake Services to begin Thursday, August 11, 2005 at 4pm. Funeral Services to begin Saturday, August 13, 2005 at 10am. The Wake and Funeral Services will be held at Key First Nation's Saulteauxplex. Pallbearers include; Burton O'Soup, Carey O'Soup, Daniel O'Soup, David Thompson, Max Dokuchie, Tyler Crane, Shaun Crane, Rainy Crane, Cassius Crane, Michael Crane. Our family would like to extend our deepest appreciation for care provide to Gwen from all the staff at Regina's General Hospital. In addition, we would like to thank all the people who phoned, wrote, sent cards, visited and prayed for our mother. She is near and dear to all. Meegwetch!