Cecil Alfred (Ut’akhgit) 

Cecil Alfred (Ut’akhgit) dedicated his life to the safety, care, and well-being of the Witset community. For decades, he served through Fire, Search and Rescue, emergency medical response, Maintenance, and essential infrastructure, helping build and sustain the systems that continue to protect Witset today.
 

Cecil was instrumental in starting the Moricetown Fire Department in 1973, working alongside other community members at a time when formal emergency services were limited. In those early years, the department was built through volunteer commitment, community fundraising, and a shared sense of responsibility. Cecil played a central role in organizing volunteers, answering calls, and laying the foundation for a dependable fire service. He went on to serve as Fire Chief for more than two decades, stepping down in 1996.

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Under his leadership, the department grew into a strong volunteer force of both men and women, developed a wide response area by land and water, and earned recognition through training and competitions alongside departments from New Westminster, Kamloops, and Kelowna. Cecil was also widely known and respected beyond the community for his work as a First Responder, assisting with countless motor vehicle accidents along the highway corridor between Smithers and Hazelton. His calm presence, experience, and willingness to respond made him a trusted support to other agencies and neighbouring communities during some of their most difficult moments.

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Alongside firefighting, Cecil served as a highly respected First Responder during medical emergencies. He assisted in delivering babies, treating injuries, stopping life-threatening bleeding, restoring breathing, and stabilizing patients in critical situations. When direct transport was not possible, Cecil and fellow responders began the journey toward Smithers and coordinated transfers along the way, saving lives through skill, care, and determination.

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Beyond emergency services, Cecil devoted many years to maintaining Witset’s essential infrastructure. As a Maintenance Supervisor for the Moricetown Band, later Witset First Nation, he supported community facilities, systems, and operations with deep knowledge and practical leadership. He also contributed to the operation of the community water plant and utilities, helping ensure reliable services for the community. Even after retirement, his knowledge continued to guide others, and staff knew they could still turn to him for answers.

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Cecil carried the hereditary name Ut’akhgit with humility and responsibility. His leadership was reflected not only in title, but in action. Through steady service, mentorship, and care for others, he showed what it means to lead by example.

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On Cecil’s final ride home from Smithers, he was honoured by the Smithers Fire Department, with fire trucks and personnel lining the road in tribute. Witset’s fire truck led the procession, a final salute to a Fire Chief whose service spanned generations.

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Witset First Nation Chief and Council, staff, and community extend their deepest gratitude to Cecil Alfred (Ut’akhgit) for all he gave in service to Witset and its people. His legacy lives on through the fire department he helped build, the infrastructure he maintained, the lives he saved, and the many people he guided along the way. His contributions will not be forgotten, and his spirit of service will continue to guide our community for generations to come.