Eddie Weetaltuk set an example with his life

I am sending this letter as a show of my appreciation to the people of Umiujaq for their support and comfort shown to myself and my relatives during the funeral of my uncle, Eddie Weetaltuk.

This was a man proud of his Inuit heritage, who, in his passing, had a letter written to Inuit in general, stressing that all should go out into the world and be proud of who you are and where you come from.

He wanted all Inuit to feel no less than their fellow human beings and that we are all just as capable as the next person to succeed in whatever walk of life we choose for ourselves.

He himself got to see much of the world at an early age when he enlisted in the Canadian army and served in the Korean War. He was also very content with his move from Kuujjuarapik to Umiujaq. He liked the fact that the people of Umiujaq made him feel very welcome in their community and accepted him as one of their own. I would like to thank all Umiujaqmiut for this special gift bestowed upon Uncle Eddie.

In keeping with his service to the Canadian military, Rangers from the communities of Kuujjuarapik, Umiujaq and Inukjuaq were represented well during the ceremony. Furthermore, the Junior Rangers were also present. On behalf of all my relatives, I would like to pass on a profound thank-you for this honour you have shown my uncle.

I am sure that after the busy life he had enjoyed, he is now resting peacefully. Thanks again to all who have expressed their condolences and given myself and my family members comfort during this time of mourning.

Anthony Ittoshat
Montreal