News Release
August 6, 2025

UBCIC Mourns the Passing of Grand Chief Robert ‘Bob’ Pasco, Respected Nlaka’pamux Leader

(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh)/ Vancouver, B.C. – August 6, 2025) The Union of BC Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) is deeply saddened to mark the passing of Grand Chief Robert ‘Bob’ Pasco, a beloved leader and lifelong advocate for the Nlaka’pamux Nation and Indigenous title and rights, whose decades of unwavering leadership, deep cultural knowledge, and principled commitment to justice left an indelible mark on Indigenous governance in British Columbia.

Grand Chief Pasco’s commitment to self-determination, economic development, language, fishery and land rights spanned decades, with a significant history of involvement with UBCIC dating back to the 1970s. He served as Land Claims Fieldworker’s Coordinator and sat on the Agricultural Committee, contributing his expertise as a rancher and champion of sustainable economic development. He was also a Board member of the Western Indian Agricultural Corporation (WIAC), a UBCIC-owned initiative supporting agricultural opportunities for Indigenous communities. Grand Chief Pasco played a prominent leadership role during pivotal moments in UBCIC’s political development and advocacy. His voice helped shape the foundations of many early First Nations initiatives in B.C., including federal-provincial committees on economic development and early work with the Fraser Basin Council as well as protecting the river and fishery through Pasco v. CNR.

“Grand Chief Pasco was an iconic leader whose wisdom, strength, and fierce commitment to justice helped shape the political landscape for Indigenous Nations in B.C.,” said UBCIC President Grand Chief Stewart Phillip. “He was a teacher and mentor to many, including myself, and always carried himself with dignity, humility, and purpose. It was an honour to attend his celebration of life this past weekend with my wife, Joan Phillip, MLA for Vancouver-Strathcona, and pay our respects to a man whose legacy will never be forgotten. We will dearly miss Grand Chief Pasco’s insights and passion at the UBCIC Chiefs Council.”

The UBCIC extends its deepest condolences to the Nlaka’pamux Nation, his family, and all who mourn his loss. We join them in honouring his remarkable legacy and celebrating his lifelong dedication to his people and Nation

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Media inquiries:

Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President, 250-490-5314
Chief Don Tom, Vice-President, 604-290-6083
Chief Marilyn Slett, Secretary-Treasurer, 250-957-7721

UBCIC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

For more information, please visit www.ubcic.bc.ca

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