In memory of Ray Gardner, Chairman of the Chinook Indian Nation, who passed on February 3, 2015. We interviewed Ray last summer for our documentary, PROMISED LAND. At the end of our interview, Ray asked if he could record a bit more and he shared with us what he felt his life meant and what he had learned about living life to fullest, despite his disease.

An amazing man, Ray Gardner, Chairman of the Chinook Indian Nation, passed away yesterday.

Vasant and I interviewed Ray last summer for our film, Promised Land - Documentary. At the end of our interview, Ray asked if he could record a bit more and he shared with us what he felt his life meant and what he had learned about living life to fullest, despite his disease. We were grieved to hear of his passing and knew it was time to share the words that Ray had given us for this time, with his wife's blessing and the blessing of acting Chinook Indian Nation Chairman, Sam Robinson.

We knew this day was coming, but we're still so shaken up by the loss of him. We were privileged to be able to spend time with him, to have him take part in the documentary, and we will feel his impact on our lives for years to come.