September 12, 2005

On behalf of all Manitobans, Premier Gary Doer today extended his condolences on the recent passing of well-known Aboriginal author and radio personality Bernelda Wheeler.

"Bernelda will be greatly missed and leaves behind a legacy of inspiration and motivation for future generations to come," said Doer.

Born April 8, 1937, of Cree, Assiniboine and Saulteaux heritage, Wheeler was one of the first native voices on radio in Canada and brought a strong literary approach to Aboriginal storytelling including short stories, poetry and children’s books. On Saturday Sept. 10, she lost a battle with cancer and passed away at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon.

Wheeler started her career at CBC station CHFC, Fort Churchill, and later became one of the first Aboriginal women to host a nationwide radio newsmagazine on CBC’s Our Native Land from the early 70s to the mid-80s. Some of her most notable literary works include Where Did You Get Your Moccasins? and I Can’t Have Bannock but the Beaver Has a Dam for which she received the Children’s Choice and Toronto Children’s Book awards.

Wheeler’s tireless work continued through the years and resulted in numerous awards and recognition of her cultural accomplishments. In 1991, she was nominated for the Order of Canada and was recently chosen as the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Anskhok Aboriginal Literature Festival. Up until her passing, she also wrote a monthly column in Eagle Feather News.

"As a pioneer in media and literary circles, Bernelda will always be remembered for her sensitive storytelling of the lives of Aboriginal Peoples," said Culture, Heritage and Tourism Minister Eric Robinson. "On behalf of the government I extend sincere condolences to all of Bernelda’s family members including her daughter Dr. Winona Wheeler and son Jordan Wheeler."

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