Lenard Howard Paquette

Lenard Howard Paquette was born on May 14, 1952 to Rita Alice Paquette and Ralph Jackson. He was raised by his grandparents Teresa and Alec Paquette with the help of numerous family members including his uncle Henry and aunt Georgina Paquette. Len grew up between Slave Lake and Prince George.

Len’s journey to become a master carver began in jail under the mentorship of Sonny Morrison. Once he was released from jail he continued to hone his artistic abilities with Francis Horne and Gene Brabant at Hill’s Native Art in Gastown. It was here that he met his wife Barbara, the eldest granddaughter, of Francis and Lloyd Hill. Len and Barbara have two children Alexander and Sonia Paquette.

Len developed his carving skills over 40 years; selling his artwork all over the world including three totem poles in a park in Japan, and two totem poles in the City of Totem’s in Duncan, one of which Ken Evans Ford donated to the city after it was in their showroom for more than 20 years.

Len was the resident artist in Hill’s Native Art in Gastown, Bastion Square in Victoria, Hill’s Koksilah Store, the Native Heritage Centre in Duncan, and the Two Rivers Art Gallery in Prince George. During his career he loved sharing his culture with children at schools or with anyone willing to listen. He returned to jail to teach, instead of as an inmate, to inspire others. His life was complete.

Len will be remembered fondly by family and friends.