A community loss: Grand Portage Tribal Chair Norman Deschampe

WTIP has learned that Norman Deschampe, Chair of the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, passed away on Saturday, February 9.

Norman served in the tribal chairman position for about 28 years. He also served on the executive committee of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe, whose members are of the Grand Portage, Bois Forte, Fond Du Lac, Leech Lake, Mille Lacs and White Earth bands.

He served on the current Tribal Council with Vice-chair Marie Spry, Secretary/Treasurer April McCormick, and Council Members John Morrin and William “Bill” Meyers.

Services will be held Wednesday, February 13 - visitation at 9:30 a.m., services at 11 a.m. at the Grand Portage Community Center. Luncheon to follow.