Eeyou Istchee is mourning Cree Nation Government executive director Davey Bobbish, who passed away October 5 at age 51, surrounded by his family and loved ones.
“Davey Bobbish’s career was defined by the pride he held in serving the Cree Nation at all levels of government,” stated the Grand Council of the Crees. “His calm generous sense of leadership inspired unity and resilience in the face of adversity. His encouragement instilled confidence in all of those that had the privilege of working with him.”
As CNG executive director, Bobbish worked at the heart of Cree governance – liaising between the board and management, leading negotiations at federal and provincial levels, and overseeing the CNG’s long-term plans.
Bobbish held the position since January 2023, replacing long-time executive director Bill Namagoose, who had been a mentor since Bobbish began his career in public service in 1998 when elected to Chisasibi’s band council. He told the Nation that he applied for the job because he saw it as an opportunity to improve communities.
“It was fun working with Bill and being part of the development and growth of communities,” Bobbish said then. “It’s always been my dream to work for the people, and being the executive director, working with all the communities at the same time.”
Deputy executive director Melissa Saganash lamented that they were just getting started in these roles and expressed how honoured she was to work alongside him. Throughout their friendship, she learned from his thoughtful leadership style, how to be assertive without having to speak louder and always putting family first.
“Davey had a way of making us feel that we could accomplish what we needed to do,” shared Saganash. “Just be yourself, be polite and respectful, and don’t forget to laugh once in a while because that’s what gets us through. Man, his laugh, the absolute best!”
Over nearly three decades in public service, Bobbish was instrumental in establishing the Cree Development Corporation, creating opportunities for businesses, resource development and industry in Eeyou Istchee. At the time of his passing, he was director of Société de développement de la Baie-James and a board member of the First Nations Bank of Canada (FNBC).
“Davey brought wisdom, humility, and an unwavering commitment to Indigenous economic empowerment,” said FNBC president Bill Lomax. “His insight and leadership strengthened our mission and inspired all of us at the bank.”
With a college diploma in finance, Bobbish began his professional career as Chee-Bee Construction’s accountant before becoming Chisasibi’s general director and treasurer in 2002. In 2012, he was elected Chief of Chisasibi, a role he held until 2020. Current Chief Daisy House recalled his generous guidance and playful banter over the years.
“Davey graciously took me under his wing, always ready to share his extensive knowledge of the myriad of files and sharp insights,” House shared. “His memory was impeccable – he made it look so easy. He had a unique ability to find the balance between fun and seriousness.”
Federal Indigenous Services Minister and former CNG Grand Chief Mandy Gull-Masty said that Bobbish “played a vital role in supporting the day-to-day lives of members and in preparing them for their future.” She added that he was “a kind, considerate person who always put others before himself.”
Born to Charles and Annie Bobbish in 1973, childhood friend Thomas Hester said Davey had leadership skills from a young age, remembering him as one of the brightest students in the classroom and a good hockey player. Many noted that he was a dedicated Montreal Canadiens fan.
Aside from his political career, which included extensive experience as a board member on committees such as CREECO and the Board of Compensation, Bobbish was known for his musical talents. Since Cree Rising bassist Darryl Spencer first heard him singing Guns N’ Roses songs in the mid-1990s, he had called him “Mr. Axl” (after the band’s lead singer).
“When my parents used to take me to talent shows or rehearsals in Chisasibi, Davey was always one of the performers,” recalled musician Paul Napash. “A truly multi-talented singer who could play just about any instrument. I’m grateful I had the chance to play for him – he inspired me a lot when I first started my musical journey.”
Bobbish leaves behind his beloved wife Bella, his high school sweetheart he married 31 years ago; children Zachary, Elysia, Lawrence, Phoebe and Katie-Lyn; and 10 grandchildren.
“The love he had for his wife Bella, his children and grandchildren was unmatched,” said Chief House. “They were his whole world. Davey’s legacy will forever remain etched in the hearts and minds of his family, friends and colleagues.”