The Tłı̨chǫ Government and the Tłı̨chǫ Community Services Agency remember Ted Blondin

The Tłı̨chǫ Nation mourns the loss of a man who was an inspiration and leader throughout our Tłı̨chǫ communities and across the North. Ted Blondin will be greatly missed and will always be remembered for his guidance in negotiating and advancing the rights of the Tłı̨chǫ and Indigenous peoples across the north.

Ted led a life of service with a profound passion for life. He embraced every aspect of his existence with acceptance and joy. Most recently, Ted served as the Chairperson of the Tłı̨chǫ Community Services Agency (TCSA), where he advocated for education, health and the well-being of all Tłı̨chǫ citizens in our communities. His vision and high expectations will continue to guide the TCSA into the future.

Ted’s intelligence and quick wit consistently pushed for the rights of Tłı̨chǫ citizens and the people of the North in every role he held. Ted was a true servant of the people and took this responsibility very seriously. As an educator and visionary, Ted shared his stories and knowledge generously. His kindness, gentle nature, and strong sense of humor were gifts he offered to many. Ted loved to tell stories and share life lessons with everyone he met during his travels.

Ted had an extensive background in politics and business throughout the Northwest Territories. From 1992 to 2005, he worked on the Tłı̨chǫ Agreement negotiating team as a Tłı̨chǫ Land Claim Manager, contributing to the creation of the Tłı̨chǫ Constitution, Self-Government, and Land Claims. After the Tłı̨chǫ Agreement took effect in 2005, Ted became the Chairperson of the TCSA and also served on the Tłı̨chǫ Investment Corporation Board. 

Ted led with passion, wisdom, and a great sense of humor. He loved making people laugh and used this humor to convey his messages and share his knowledge. He was a constant teacher to many. He believed deeply in the Tłı̨chǫ Government, the significance of self-government, and the right of all Tłı̨chǫ people to determine their own future, on their own terms. Ted was adamant that young people understood the importance of their legacy by using their voice to create a vision for the future. 

Ted often reflected on the many years he spent travelling away from home, emphasizing the importance of the work he was doing. He also spoke about his family and his love for them, which shone through in every story he shared. It was clear from his words how much he loved and respected his wife, Violet, often recounting stories of their meeting and their adventures together. To Ted’s wife, Violet, and to his children and grandchildren, we extend our deepest condolences for your loss. Ted was a great teacher to his family and all who had the opportunity to meet him.

Ted will be greatly missed by many, but his legacy and vision will live on in his children, grandchildren, and all those fortunate enough to have known him.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Ted Blondin’s family and friends.

Service Details:

Friday, April 11, 2025

• Wake Services at St. Michael’s Parish, Behchokǫ̀, NT.  Rosary at 5:30 PM.  Mass at 6 PM. 

Saturday, April 12, 2025:

• Funeral Mass at St. Michael's Church, Behchokǫ̀, NT. Rosary at 10:30 AM, Mass at 11 AM. 
• 3:00 PM at Burial at Lakeview Cemetery, Yellowknife, NT. 
• 5:00 PM reception at Multiplex DND Gym, Yellowknife, NT.