The Squamish Nation bid farewell to a well-regarded elder in its community on Tuesday.
Funeral services for Vernon Lyle Baker (Tenás-t, also known as, 'Magoo' / 'Bakes') took place in North Vancouver at the Chief Joe Mathias Centre.
Baker was considered such an important member of the community that his death prompted the rescheduling of the Jan. 6 swearing-in ceremony for the new nation council.
He worked for many years at the North Vancouver School District and was well-known for attending many community events with a smile on his face, according to an obituary provided to The Squamish Chief.
“Vern was a loving husband, father and grandfather, as well as a loved brother and ‘uncle’ in our community and he will be deeply missed,” the obituary reads.
He was born on Dec. 7, 1952. He died on Jan. 3.
Baker grew up on Mission Reserve #1, then later lived in the Capilano reserve, where he raised his daughters. He attended St. Paul's Indian Residential school, St. Thomas Aquinas and Langara college.
Over the years, he gained a reputation as being a strong athlete, particularly in lacrosse.
He played with the Coquitlam J-Hawks Junior A's and later with the North Shore Indians, the obituary said.
Baker was also remembered for his time as a basketball coach.
“[He was] respected and loved by all youth from our Nation and the Norgate community,” the obituary said. “Vern is fondly remembered as a strong community member and role model.”
