Rob First Charger

Known for his quick wit and unique sense of humor, Rob always spoke his mind, often leaving those around him laughing or shaking their heads in amused disbelief. He had a special gift for making people smile. Rob cherished his family deeply, and being surrounded by loved ones brought him immense joy. He was happiest when sharing stories, laughter, and love with those closest to him.

A proud member of the Blackfoot Confederacy, Rob carried immense pride in his Blackfoot identity, which shaped both his life and his art. He was a talented writer, artist, curator and archivist, deeply dedicated to preserving and celebrating Blackfoot history and culture. His work reached across Canada and beyond, with contributions to the Glenbow Museum in Calgary and the Canadian Museum of Civilization in Gatineau, Quebec. He was part of the installation team for The Mysterious Bog People exhibition and collaborated with Oxford University and the University of Aberdeen on Blackfoot Shirts in Museum spaces.

Rob’s voice was featured in the National Gallery of Canada’s “Art of the Land” exhibit, where he recorded an audio guide in both Blackfoot and English, sharing the beauty and stories of Plains Indian art and culture. He volunteered his time generously with many organizations, including the Galt Museum, the Blackfoot Canadian Cultural Society, and the Calgary Aboriginal Awareness Society, serving on numerous boards and committees.

Rob pursued a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art History and Museum Studies at the University of Lethbridge, guided by his passion for Indigenous art and education. He drew lifelong inspiration from his late relative, Dr. Joanne Cardinal-Schubert, whose legacy influenced his creativity and spirit.

Rob was also an avid photographer, capturing moments of life, family, and friendship that reflected the love and joy he saw in the world. He had a deep love for writing and reading, often finding inspiration in stories and words. True to his playful nature, Rob often sent funny and heartfelt messages to his family and always managed to make everyone feel seen, loved, and connected.

He will be remembered as funny, intelligent, and creative—a man who loved deeply and laughed loudly. His humor, wisdom, and artistic vision will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. Rob lived life to the fullest, enjoying good wine, great food, and rock music. He had a profound appreciation for art, beauty, and people. Always social and full of laughter, he had a gift for bringing joy to others and was ever ready with a joke or smile to brighten someone’s day.

Rob was predeceased by his parents, Bertha Flying About and Bob First Charger. His siblings Margaret, Genevieve, Theresa, Verna, Nadine, Stella, Gary, Jerry, Joe Crow, and Alice Klein also predeceased him. On his mother’s side, he came from the Aakapokaksi (Many Children Clan), also known as the I’naksiiksi (Small Blanket Clan). On his father’s side, he was from the Pottatsiksi (Tea Drinking Clan) and the Aisspahkomiksi (Shoot Up Clan) clan. He was a descendant of Íímahkihkinaapi (Sheep Old Man) and Mi’kai’stoo (Chief Red Crow), who were brothers from the Mamioyiksi (Fish Eaters Clan).

Rob will be remembered by his surviving siblings Francis (Judy), Brian (Michele), and his sisters Agnes, Veronica, and Roberta. He will be deeply missed by his many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Rob loved his nieces and nephews as if they were his own especially Karen, Sam, Kariya, Kailey, Adam, and Pepper he took as his own children. He always ensures they felt loved and supported. He never missed an opportunity to express how proud he was of his family, taking joy and pride in their accomplishments.

His humor and teasing spirit will echo in our memories – especially his signature line, “I love you, but don’t tell anybody”. Reminding us of how much he cared in his own way.

The family would like to thank the many who were part of his life, especially friends, relatives, colleagues, family members who were with him to the end of his last breath. You are all loved and appreciated for your support and help during this time as you give us strength and guidance.

A Wake will be held at THE GALT MUSEUM AND ARCHIVES, 502 – 1 Street South, Lethbridge, AB, on Sunday, November 2, 2025 from 7:00 P.M. to 11:00 P.M.

A Funeral Service will be held at SENATOR GLADSTONE HALL, Blood Reserve, AB, on Monday, November 3, 2025 at 12:00 Noon with Wilton Goodstriker officiating. For those unable to attend in person, a recording of the Funeral Service will be available at a later date.

Following the Funeral Service, Rob will be laid to rest in Pioneer Cemetery, Blood Reserve, AB.