Tulalip Tribes elder Bernie Kai-Kai Gobin passed away on Monday.
Bernie “Kai-Kai” Gobin told stories through his carvings and other artwork. The canoe paddles, masks, boxes and other pieces he gave away throughout his life are admired for their intricate craftsmanship. When poor health afflicted him, Gobin continued working. He filled his Tulalip home with his own art inspired by the Pacific Northwest, where his ancestors have lived for countless generations.
Gobin died early Monday. He was 79 years old.
Gobin served on the Tulalip Tribes Board of Directors for more than two decades, said Stan Jones, who grew up alongside Gobin on the Tulalip Indian Reservation.