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By Eric Jenks
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of our dear friend, mentor, and educator, Joseph Alfred Elie Joubert. A mainstay of our Abenaki language education program, our Saratoga Native American Festival, and the board here at Ndakinna, we will miss his wit, his caring, and his dedication to the Abenaki community. We will continue to honor his memory and the work that he did in educating the future.
Born May 3rd, 1944 at the Odanak Indian Reservation in the Provence of Quebec, Canada, Joubert was raised by his parents Alfred and Cecile Joubert in both Odanak and Troy, NY.
A man of many strengths, he rose to the rank of Command Master Chief Petty Officer during his 20 years in the Navy. Outside of the Navy, he received an Associate in Arts Degree from Hartford University. A published author, Joubert wrote three books in the Abenaki Language: Language of Basket Making, First Council Fire, and the Abenaki Dictionary with Ndakinna’s Jesse Bruchac.
Here at Ndakinna, Joubert was essential in our revitalization program of the Abenaki Language, where he continued the work started by his mother Cecile. His smile, laugh, and thoughtful critique of the learning behind the Abenaki language will be deeply missed during our language weekends and classes.
He is survived by two daughters: Tina Pafundi (Michael) and Terry Murray (Charlie); granddaughter, Elizabeth Derenzo; sister, Joyce Hamel (Jerry); plus nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his daughter, Deborah Ann Joubert.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his graveside service with full military honors on Tuesday, October 20, 2020 at 12 Noon at Gerald BH Solomon Saratoga National Cemetery, 200 Duell Road, Schuylerville, NY 12871. Masks are required and social distancing is to be observed.
Our hearts are heavy but our spirits are light with the memories of your time with us. Adio nid8bah.
Eric Jenks is Associate Director of Ndakinna Education Center
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Fair winds and following seas Joseph.
Rest in Peace, and in Power ❤️
My heart goes out to you all, your families, and all Abenaki and Ndakinna Good People on the condolence chain and for your deep loss. I never had the honor or the pleasure of meeting Joseph, but what he did for you and your language has no equal. Today, I promise you, I will drum and sing in the mountain woods for Joseph. I will see you tomorrow. Take care.
Abenaki don’t have much representation from native affairs in USA or Canada. But there is www unionromani.org
Our condolences from international ronani union.
For those interested in keeping records language preservation , residental schools survivors and oral storyteling- Recently bill hr 292 Romani recongition was passed in Congress and mazacoin cryoto currency