Mike Smith, early champion of Yukon land claims, has died

Former Kwanlin Dn First Nation chief Mike Smith, who was part of the early push forland claim agreements for Yukon First Nations and later fought for their implementation, has died.

A statement from his family on Thursday morning confirmed his deathbut did not disclose the cause, referring only to a "medical condition" that Smithwantedkept confidential.

The statement says Smith was a "deeply private person" who spent his last days with his family.

"Mike was a great leader who shared the vision of the many leaders he worked with in trying to build a better future for his people," the family's statement reads.

Smith was a residential school survivor who earned his law degree in 1984. Hepromptly put his legal knowledgeto work in pushing for land claim agreements for Yukon First Nations.

He served three terms as chief ofKwanlinDn,and was a signatory of theFirst Nation's land claim and self-government agreement, in 2005.

"Kwanlin Dn First Nation people have made the choice to take responsibility for our future. We look forward at this time to pass on our legacy to future generations," he said at the signing ceremony.

Smith was also past chair of the Council ForYukon Indians (later to become the Council of Yukon First Nations), and more recently, the Assembly of First Nations' regional chief for Yukon.

His family describes him as a mentor to many in Aboriginal rights, and the "traditional leader of our family."

The city of Whitehorse lowered flags to half-mast on Thursday, in honour of Smith.