Donald Marshall, left, listens to Noel Knockwood, who provided translation from Mi’kmaq to English at the Marshall Inquiry in Halifax in 1988.DOUG IVES/The Canadian Press
Noel Knockwood, a spiritual leader in Nova Scotia known for his fierce dedication to Mi'kmaq culture, has died. He was 81.
Premier Stephen McNeil extended his condolences Friday on Knockwood's death, saying he was considered a pillar of his community who was committed to Mi'kmaq people and traditions.
Knockwood was born in Shubenacadie, about 60 kilometres northeast of Halifax, and attended the Shubenacadie Indian Residential School during his early years before joining the military.
A Korean War veteran, Knockwood served as the first aboriginal sergeant-at-arms for the provincial legislature from 2000 to 2005.
He also served on the Mi'kmaq Grand Council and was awarded the National Aboriginal Achievement Award for his efforts to strengthen Mi'kmaq heritage and spirituality in 2002.