A Saskatchewan-born pioneer in the game of hockey with ties to Kamloops has passed away at the age of 86.

Fred Sasakamoose, who played for the Kamloops Chiefs for three seasons from 1956 to 1960 has died after battling a presumed case of COVID-19. He grew up on the Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation in Saskatchewan and was the first Canadian-Indigenous athlete to play in the NHL when he suited for the Chicago Blackhawks in 1954.

His son Neil shared the news of his death via a facebook live video.  Sasakamoose was in a Prince Albert, Sask. hospital for five days after coming down with the virus.

“Fred passed away at 3 o’clock Saskatchewan time,” Neil said. “His body just couldn’t keep up.”

“He really wanted to thank everyone for what they did. He was able to see most of the videos that people sent in.”

A recipient of the Order of Canada in 2017, Fred Sasakamoose was the guest of honour at a Kamloops Blazers game in January of 2010 during the team’s inaugural First Nations Night.

Sasakamoose survived the residential school system and still has family in Kamloops. His niece Solaine was born in the city and is a member of the TRU Wolfpack women’s soccer team.

Fred Sasakamoose survived the residential school system, became the National Hockey League’s first-ever Indigenous player, and inspired many with his stories of suffering and success. He leaves behind an incredible legacy. My condolences to all who are mourning his passing today.

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) November 25, 2020