In Memory of Elder Pearl Sandor
Posted on: May 27, 2026
It is with deep sadness that we share that on May 11th, 2026, Métis Citizen and respected Elder Pearl Sandor passed away.
Pearl was born in High Prairie, Alberta, to a traditional Métis family grom Grouard, Alberta. The youngest of eight children born to Charles and Delphine, Pearl dedicated much of her life to serving and uplifting her community. She attended St. Bernard Residential School in Grouard as a day student and carried with her the experiences, strength, and resilience that shaped her lifelong commitment to Métis people and culture.
Throughout her life, Pearl was a passionate advocate for her Métis community. While living in Smithers British Columbia, she served as president of the local British Columbia Association of Non-status Indians. She also spent seven years serving on the board of the Friendship Centre in High Prairie and proudly represented her community at several national conferences. At the time of her passing, Pearl served as Interim Representative of the New Dawn Métis Women’s Society for Region 5 and as president of the Grouard Seniors Community Club.
Pearl was also a gifted Métis artist dedicated to preserving traditional fish scale art. In her retirement, she embraced the art form and generously shared her knowledge with both children and adults, ensuring these traditions would continue for future generations. Pearl had strong ties to the Métis community of High Prairie, Alberta, and travelled extensively in passionate support of Métis culture, traditions, and ways of life. In April, 2025 she received the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her work in promoting Métis art, culture and work with New Dawn Métis Women’s group.
Pearl’s kindness, wisdom, and dedication to community will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Our thoughts, prayers, and deepest condolences are with the Sandor family during this difficult time.
A service will be held to honour Pearl on May 30, 2026, from 1-4 PM at Grouard Northland School, (#2 – 4th Avenue NE Grouard, AB) as we honour Pearl’s life and accomplishments.