The First Nations Tax Commission greatly mourns the loss of former Chief William (Bill) Montour of the Six Nations of the Grand River, who passed away on January 8, 2023.
Chief Montour was born on Six Nations, the eldest of nine children. He served twice as the Elected Chief of Six Nations of the Grand River from 1986 to 1991, then again from 2007 to 2013. He also served as a councillor in 1976. Prior to his career in politics, he was an iron worker for many decades.
In 1989, Chief Montour was a founding member of the Indian Taxation Advisory Board, the predecessor institution to the First Nations Tax Commission. He served until 1994. He brought enormous leadership and credibility to that role at a time when First Nation taxation was not well understood and at times controversial. He was a leader of vision who looked long into the future and saw the potential to expand the role and powers of First Nation governments, and to use those powers to strengthen First Nation communities. Despite his towering frame, he conveyed great warmth, humour, and was always generous with his time and understanding – he was much loved by those who knew him.
The First Nations Tax Commission mourns his loss and sends sincere condolences to his wife Pam and the Montour family.