11/13/2025
Bilijk leadership want to send our heartfelt condolences to the Atwin family as they mourn the loss of a truly important person, former Sakom and Elder Robert (Bob) Atwin. Bob was a father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and leader. Bob was a pioneer for change and a trailblazer for our Wolastoqiyik community and Nation. At a time where Indigenous rights were not upheld or respected, Bob paved pathways for success for our people that extended far beyond the borders of Bilijk.
Bob sat as the CEO of FNEII (First Nations Education Initiative Incorporated) since its inception in 2004. FNEII is a First Nations regional management organization, the first of its kind for our Nation, representing both the Wolastoqiyik Nation and the Mi’kmaq Nation. Bob saw that Indian Affairs were funnelling education funds in an inadequate way that did not serve our people. With the creation of FNEII, Bob streamlined those funds directly into our communities, bridging accessibility, equity, and opportunity for our people. Bob saw that education was a powerful tool that could shift our lives and allow us to break free from generations of inaccessibility. Bob ensured that our children had access to meaningful supports, opportunities, and services that otherwise would have gone unaddressed without his advocacy.
Bob was a UNB graduate, obtaining a Master’s of Education that helped shape Wolastoqiyik politics for years. Bob lived life with integrity and sat as Sakom (Chief) of Bilijk for 14 years. In that time, Bob brought our community to great heights through his advocacy. We cannot put into words how big of a loss this is for our people, but we honour Bob’s legacy and know that we are all walking in giant footsteps for the betterment of our people, community, and Nation. Woliwon Bob for inspiring generations; for your leadership, thought, and genuine care. We know that you join our ancestors in spirit and will continue to watch over our people from where you are.
In spirit,
Bilijk Chief and Council
It is with broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Robert (Bob) James Atwin of Kingsclear First Nation, on Saturday November 8, 2025. Bob was ...