Activist Alfred Eli dies at 43

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Alfred Gerard Eli, 43, a respected and influential force in Toronto's Aboriginal community, died peacefully at his home on Jan. 10 from complications due to AIDS. He was surrounded by friends and family.

Eli is remembered by those close to him as a kind man with an easy-going nature and a strong sense of humor, who had tremendous will and energy for his work, and who was loved by and an inspiration to all who knew him.

Originally from the Okanagan area of British Columbia, Eli amassed considerable experience over more than 20 years with the Department of Indian Affairs, and as a teacher, fund-raiser and administrator. He was well known for his work in the field of education at various levels.

"Alfred was an educator," says Isaac Pitawanakwata Potawatomi Indian from Wikwemikong reserve on Manitoulin Island, and a former president of the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto. "He made things happen with the viewpoint of making it a little better for Indian people.

Eli served two terms as president of Toronto's Native Canadian Centre. He was instrumental in creating the Anishnawbe Health Centre, the front-runner in Native health services in Toronto. He was a founding member of the 2 Spirited People of the First Nations and he was also a member with both the board of governors and the Aboriginal education council at George Brown College.