Alex George Williams

Chapxelánexu -t / Xats’alánexw Tanáynexw –t

Sunrise: March 24, 1929 - Sunset: January 18, 2020

On behalf of Council, Band Manager and MSS it is with great sadness we advise of the passing of our dear elder Alex George Williams. We extend our sincere condolences to the Williams / Williams (AKA Billy), Cheer / Jack & Leach families. Alex was born to his parents Johnny Cheer and Agatha Jack on March 24, 1929 in Squamish, BC and he passed away peacefully at Hilltop Health Care Centre in the early morning on January 18 with his ‘son’ Andrew by his side – he was 90 years young. Alex was raised in the home of his Dad Chief George Williams and Mom Sara Monica (nee Williams AKA Billy) on Seaichem IR No 16 in Squamish, BC. He never attended school of any kind and at the age of 13 he began his lifelong trade in the logging industry. He loved curling and wrestling and was well known as a great story telling. His legacy to our families would be his work with the Tiná Ta na wa Nexwniw̓n ta a ímats (From Teachings for Your Grandchildren / The Squamish Language Elders Group) and contributions to our Skwxú7mesh Sníchim programs. Alex was one of our last known ‘first speakers’ of Skwxú7mesh Sníchim and will be remembered and missed dearly by learners of all ages.

Alex was married to his late wife Irene Williams (nee: Andrew) for 53 years and together they raised their family in Squamish Nation. He is survived by daughter Violet Loreen Leach; grandchildren Paul Leach, Pamela Leach, Donald Leach, Andrew Leach, Tracy Leach; great grandchildren Crystal, Tabitha, Maria, Joey and Natasha. He is also survived by his nieces & nephews Jack Lewis (Cherry), Henry Williams (Jackie), Chief Bill Williams, Darlene Labell (Ray), Alexander Williams, Mara Williams (Roland), Allen Cordocedo, Barry Cordocedo, Ben Simen-Falvy; and many, many loving relatives and dear friends.

Following a meeting with family the following arrangements have been made:

SHAKER PRAYER SERVICE:

Family Home

39580 Government Road, Squamish, BC

Date: Thursday, January 23, 2020

Viewing: 6:00 pm

Time: 7:00 pm

SHAKER FUNERAL SERVICE:

Totem Hall

Date: Friday, January 24, 2020

Viewing: 9:00 am

Time: 10:00 am

INTERMENT: Waiwaikum Indian Reserve No. 14 Cemetery

Immediately Following Service

DINNER: Totem Hall

Immediately Following Service