(Treaty 4 Territory) – The leadership, management, and staff of the File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council express our deepest sympathies to the family of Dean Bigknife upon his passing.
Dean began his career with the Tribal Council in 1994, which was then known as Touchwood File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council (TFHQ), in employment and pre-employment programs & services. Over his 27+ years since, Dean has helped countless people into employment and pre-employment training programs. Though the acronym may have changed a dozen times, Dean’s focus on helping our people make better lives for themselves never swayed.
Stepping Stones Career Fair began nearly 20 years ago, of which Dean was a lead organizer from the start, and featured employers, recruiters, and post-secondary educational institutions to young people of all backgrounds and walks of life. Dean was passionate about opening up a world of career possibilities to our people, especially young people. Thousands of youth would come by the busload to the career fair, which has never missed a year aside from the pandemic, thanks to Dean’s leadership and determination.
Helping the youth meant a great deal to Dean, opening a world of employment and post-secondary education opportunities, he would return every call and answer every email, help students struggling with their programs, find ways to help youth and people through their programs, and attend graduations. He truly cared, his humble nature and sense of humour are what many of us will remember.
Dean enjoyed life and enjoyed many friends. Dean is survived by his four daughters Jacinda, Janene, Kristen, Jamie and grandson Maverick. He loved his children and grandson very much. As well as numerous relatives. At this time we ask that everyone emulate Dean’s qualities – caring, helping, determination, teasing and overall love of life. In his words his motto was YOLO “You Only Live Once” so enjoy life all you can.
The wake will be held Wednesday June 15th at Wapmoostoosis Gym in Lebret, Saskatchewan beginning at 4:00 pm which will also include an Open Mike Session to give an opportunity for family, friends and co-workers to share stories or memories about Dean. The funeral will be held the following day, Thursday June 16th 10:00 am at the same location. The family has asked that whoever is able to wear their favourite sports jersey to acknowledge Dean’s love of sports.
Kininaskomitin Nitotem Dean Bigknife
