'She was very honourable': Cathy Merrick lies in state at Manitoba legislature
CTV
The sound of sombre song serenaded the halls of the Manitoba legislature Wednesday as Cathy Merrick's casket was brought in for a closed-door ceremony. Merrick died last Friday and was to lie in state Wednesday afternoon to allow the public to pay their respects.
The sound of sombre song serenaded the halls of the Manitoba legislature Wednesday as Cathy Merrick's casket was brought in for a closed-door ceremony.
Merrick died last Friday and was to lie in state Wednesday afternoon to allow the public to pay their respects.
Winnipeg police and RCMP officers carried the casket into the legislature followed by a procession that featured family, friends, community leaders and local officials.
Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Grand Chief Garrison Settee said it has been overwhelming to see the support from everyone throughout Manitoba.
"It is quite an honour for our people to have our own citizen lie in state in a very respectful establishment," he said. "I know that it helps and it validates her as a leader, validates her work and also her character."
While many will remember Merrick as the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs' Grand Chief, Settee hopes she will also be remembered for the love and compassion she showed everyone.