It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Elder Asayenes Dan Smoke, a highly respected member of the Indigenous community. A member of the Seneca Nation, Kildeer Clan from Six Nations of the Grand River territory, Dan dedicated himself to walking alongside generations of students, staff and faculty in all aspects of campus life at U of G.
Dan was an Elder, Traditional Teacher, educator, journalist, advocate and held an honorary doctorate from Western University. In 2001 he supported the development of the Aboriginal Student Association, now the Indigenous Student Society.
“It has been a great honour to have known Elder Brother Dan-baa through both my time as a student and as a staff member,” said Dr. Cara Wehkamp, assistant vice-president (Indigenous Initiatives). “I had the privilege to witness the strength, grace and convictions of a man who welcomed everyone into his circle of care. By embodying our teachings, he brought people together as relatives to foster shared learning. The countless stories and teachings he leaves behind form a lasting legacy for many.”
Dan along with his wife and partner, Mary Lou, became the first Visiting Elders at U of G’s Indigenous Student Centre in 2003 and he continued to serve in this role up until his passing.
The Smokes were instrumental in the establishment of several campus programs and services including Indigenous student mental health supports and the Celebration of Indigenous Achievement. In addition to their roles as campus Knowledge Holders and guest lecturers, they advised on the President’s Advisory Committee on Indigenous Initiatives and Bi-Naagwad – U of G’s Indigenous Initiatives Strategy. They also received the Student Experience Emilie Hayes Award for Community Partnerships in 2018.
“I am privileged to have had Dan-baa journey alongside me for almost 20 years – as a student, staff, sister, and friend. I carry with me the teachings he gifted, shared during countless car rides, meals, circles, and quiet moments. His humility, gentle spirit, and voice will continue to inspire and guide the Indigenous Student Centre, Indigenous students, and the U of G community,” shared Natasha Young, manager of the Indigenous Student Centre.
Gathering to Honour and Remember Elder Dan Smoke
The Indigenous Student Centre and the Office of Indigenous Initiatives invite U of G students, staff, and faculty to a drop-in gathering to honour and remember Elder Dan Smoke.
Please join us on Thursday, Nov. 7 between 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Raithby House 100. Cards will be available for anyone wishing to send a message to his wife and family. Light refreshments will be available.
Sacred Fire
A Sacred Fire at the Royal City Park fire site will be held to honour Elder Dan Smoke on Friday, Nov. 8 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Members of the community are welcome to offer good medicine and for community healing.
Condolences to Dan’s family may be shared through the funeral home’s online memorial page.
Supports for students, faculty and staff
Support is available for all faculty, staff and students, including:
- Indigenous Student Centre, 519-824-4120 Ext. 58074
- Multi-Faith Resource Team, 519-824-4120 Ext. 58909
- Student Counselling Services, 519-824-4120 Ext. 53244
- Crisis Text Line, text “UofG” to 686868
- Employee and family assistance program for faculty and staff, 1-800-265-8310
- Hope For Wellness Helpline for Indigenous people, 1-855-242-3310