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Angie Crerar Park (Image Credit: City of Grande Prairie)
By Tanner Smith
Community

Peace Region reflects on passing of Elder Angie Crerar

Jan 14, 2026 | 3:37 PM

Community members and organizations are reacting to the death of longtime Grande Prairie resident and Indigenous rights activist, Elder Angie Crerar, who passed away Friday, Jan. 9, at the age of 89.

On behalf of the City of Grande Prairie, Mayor Jackie Clayton released a statement about the King Coronation Medal recipient, long-standing Metis Local 1990 president and residential school survivor:

“It is with a heavy heart that I acknowledge the passing of Elder Angie Mercredi-Crerar, a leader, advocate and long-time Grande Prairie resident.

Elder Angie was a monumental figure in Grande Prairie and across the region. Her leadership touched countless lives through her work with Métis Local 1990, the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre, Native Counselling Services of Alberta, and Grande Prairie Regional College, now Northwestern Polytechnic. She gave generously of her time and wisdom to the City of Grande Prairie, helping guide us as an organization and as a community.

Elder Angie led with honesty, courage, and compassion. She brought vulnerability and bravery to difficult conversations, including her trip to the Vatican, helping individuals and institutions to listen, learn, and do better as we continue the work of Truth and Reconciliation. Her advocacy was steady, principled, and rooted in care for people and community.

Her contributions to Grande Prairie were defined by a willingness to do whatever it took to help people and strengthen community. She founded the Elders Caring Shelter, the first of its kind in Alberta, creating a safe and dignified place for at-risk unhoused elders.

Her leadership and service were recognized through numerous honours, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women, the Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, King Charles III Coronation Medal, the Government of Alberta’s Minister’s Seniors Service Award, and the City of Grande Prairie’s Hometown Hero Award. Even in recent years, she remained deeply engaged in community life, including the raising of the Métis flag at City Hall, and continued to champion future supports for elders.

On behalf of the City of Grande Prairie, I extend heartfelt condolences to Elder Angie’s family, friends, colleagues, and all those who were guided by her leadership and care. She leaves behind a legacy of service, strength, and deep commitment to community.”

The Otipemisiwak Métis government is also reacting to the news and shared a statement from its President, Andrea Sandmaier:

“Angie was a cherished friend, a guiding matriarch, a respected leader, and so much more to our Nation.

Wherever she went, she carried kindness, love, and an unwavering pride in the Métis Nation and our culture. Her strength, wisdom, and leadership helped shape and strengthen our community, and they had a lasting impact on me personally.

I am profoundly grateful for the guidance she offered, the knowledge she shared, and the example she set through her humility and unwavering care for others.

I will also always cherish the laughter we shared and the warmth she brought into my life. She will be deeply missed, and I will forever be grateful for the mentorship, grace, and compassion she so generously shared with those around her.”

The Metis Local 1990 also posted a tribute to Elder Crerar on its social media.

A traditional Métis-Catholic funeral will be held on Saturday, Jan. 17 at the Bowes Events Centre, starting at 11 a.m.

Obituaries and funeral services are being held by Oliver’s Funeral Home, and can be found on their website.

by Tanner Smith