Gilman Cardinal

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Gilman Ronald Cardinal. On August 9,2024. Gilman passed away peacefully in Edmonton, Alberta. Gilman is survived by his son Bernie (Priscilla) and son Wade (Keri), as well as his grandchildren Katherine (Greg), Kehew (Wasi), Cole, Raina, Alex, Landon, Leif and Lukas. His Chapans: Okanees Johnson and Clara Cardinal. He is also survived by his his brothers Eugene (Jeanie), Irvin, Larry (Mindy), Robert (Marie), Darrel (Lorna); his sisters Hazel (AI), Clarice (Clarence), Linda (Leo), Christine (Mike), Gladys, Connie; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents Rose Cardinal (Francis )and Joe Cardinal ( Louise) his brother Mike Cardinal. 

Gilman was raised in a small, predominantly Aboriginal community of Calling Lake along with six brothers & six sisters. The community members lived a traditional communal lifestyle and welfare was totally unheard of.

Hunters provided the food, medicine men/women were our healers and midwives delivered the babies. The nearest town, Athabasca, on a return trip was approximately five days by horse and wagon on a dirt road. In his early 20's Gilman left his home community to seek a career with The Provincial Government. During the 40 years he was employed with the Province he worked in a variety of careers including some of the following; Labour Market Programs & Services, Trades & Apprenticeships, Career Counselling & Provincial & Aboriginal Job Corps. He retired from the Public Service on July 8, 2008; his last duties included capacity building initiatives with Aboriginal Communities and providing Cultural Awareness Training for his colleagues and others.

Gilman was proud of his cultural heritage. He will be sorely missed by family. 

Donations can be made to The Royal Alex Heart Foundation. 

https://support.royalalex.org/site/Donation2?idb=152160103&df_id=1480&mfc_pref=T&1480.donation=form1

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