Robert Bruce Jr., a former NDP MLA and Speaker of the legislature, died last weekend.

The NDP said today it’s “saddened” to hear of Bruce’s passing.

He served as chief of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation in Old Crow from 1992 to 1996, and as the village’s MLA from 1996 to 2000.

“We all knew Robert as a respectful, humble man who devoted his life to ensuring a brighter future for the next generations of the Gwitchin nation,” said Annie Blake, the MLA for Vuntut Gwitchin.

“Robert lived by his principles; he upheld the values and vision of who we are as Gwitchin.”

As chief, Bruce Jr. signed the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation Final Agreement with the federal government in 1993.

“In many ways, this moment represented a new journey not only for our community – we were securing a better future for our children and grandchildren.” Blake added.

“I am grateful for his leadership and his dedication to our nation.

“He always talked about the importance of working together and practising life in modern times while upholding the traditional values and ways of living within our community.

“Thank you, Robert, for your leadership, your guidance, your humour, and for being the voice for the future of our Gwitchin Nation so many times.”

Bruce, born July 12, 1948 in Old Crow, was a heavy equipment operator for a time.

He became involved in a rare electoral situation as he sought territorial office in 1996 with future government leader Piers McDonald’s NDP team of candidates.

After a tied vote in the Sept. 30 election between Bruce and incumbent Yukon Party MLA Esau Schafer, Bruce was chosen as the winner – by having his name drawn out of a hat.

A February 1997 Yukon Supreme Court order overturned the results and set up a byelection in the riding, in which Bruce prevailed.

He did not stand for re-election in the 2000 election, which Pat Duncan’s Liberals won 23 years ago this past Monday.