Jim Sark remembered as respected advocate, leader
Sark served as chief of Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nations for decades
ABEGWEIT FIRST NATION, P.E.I. – Respected Indigenous elder and former chief of both Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nations George James (Jim) Sark has died at the age of 84.
In a release, the Epekwitk Assembly of Councils said Sark will be missed and leaves behind a legacy as a community builder and tireless advocate for the Mi’kmaq people.
Sark was born on Feb 17, 1940, at Lennox Island to the late Jacob Sark, former chief of Lennox Island, and Alma Mitchell (Cormier) Sark. He served as chief of his home community from 1965 to 1972 and then chief of Abegweit First Nation from 1977 to 1999.
The council noted that throughout his tenure as chief, Sark spearheaded numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing infrastructure, employment and community development. From pioneering the distribution of electricity in Lennox Island to overseeing the construction of essential facilities such as community halls, gyms, and housing, Sark had a dedication to progress in his communities.
Lennox Island First Nation Chief Darlene Bernard expressed her condolences, stating, "The passing of Jim Sark is a profound loss for our community. He was a visionary leader whose dedication to advancing the interests of our people was boundless. His contributions to the development of Lennox Island and Abegweit First Nations are immeasurable, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations."
Abegweit First Nation Chief Junior Gould also shared his sentiments, remarking, "With the passing of Jim Sark, we have lost our oldest living Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq. Every time we lose an elder, we lose countless stories, traditional knowledge and history. As chief of the Abegweit First Nation I am grateful for the many years of service Jim provided to his community. As our community, and the P.E.I. Mi’kmaq community as a whole, continues to grow and regain our role as stewards of this special island, Jim will be remembered as a significant part of the history that got us to this point."
Sark’s funeral arrangements have been made with Hennessy Cutcliffe Funeral Home, Charlottetown, where visiting hours took place on Feb. 23. Funeral mass and celebration of life will take place on Feb. 24 at 2 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Cornwall.
Memorial donations may be made to the Church of Saint Anne, Box 134, 2 Eagle Feather Trail, Lennox Island, P.E.I., C0B 1P0.