Supports for Madeline Drybones Funeral

Our Aunty Madeline Drybones has returned to Lutsel K’e to make her final journey from this world to join loved ones, family and friends, ancestors who have gone before her.

Madeline Drybones is a respected Elder of Lutsel K’e Dene, Akaitcho Dene and Dene Nation. Aunty Madeline was born and lived out most of her long life in the barrenlands in and around what is known as Kache, Artillery Lake and beyond. Her story is well known amongst the territory, she is one of the most kindest people we know and has many friends and family who love her unconditionally.

You may know her or of her through her expansive experience and knowledge that she has generously shared over and over again in so many different types of forums and settings. She has shared her wealth of experience and knowledge always with love and kindness and for the continuation and revitalization of our culture, language and our responsibilities as Dene, the people. Madeline Drybones shares her expansive Dene Elder TK with all people, for their benefit as well.

Over the past decades, Madeline Drybones has participated in all sorts of academic and scientific research nationally and internationally. She has been an integral part of the NWT’s regulatory system, participating in preliminary screenings, technical sessions, public hearings, working groups, etc.. She participated in Canadian and Territorial government consultations and meetings and shared her knowledge openly and in a good way. Madeline Drybones guided the Lutsel K’e Dene First Nation, Akaitcho Dene and Dene Nation and participated in all manner of forums with them too, she has taught our children and youth on the land and in our schools many times. She has been a valued resource for us all.

We respectfully request your assistance, in our grief, with the funeral expenses for this great lady, our Aunty Madeline Drybones. It is her final wish to be laid to rest beside her daughter at Artillery Lake. Her two children have passed on before her and her remaining family, grandchildren, need help as they have access to limited funds and the estimated funeral expenses to bring Madeline Drybones to her burial site at Artillery Lake are higher than ever before at this time. It is estimated at $20k - $30k for twin otter shuttle charters to and from Yellowknife – Lutsel K’e – Artillery Lake along with other expenses.

We thank you for your generous donation towards the funeral expenses for all of our respected Elder, Madeline Drybones, our beloved Aunty, a most cherished resource in all our lives, we thank you with all our hearts for any support you can offer. We are helping our cousin Marlene Michel Watchepese fundraise for Aunty Madeline’s funeral and please contact us at [email redacted] and thank you again!