The Beardy’s Okemasis First Nation has lost a distinguished elder.

Officials with the band say Howard Cameron passed away early Tuesday morning in hospital.

A long-time RCMP officer, Cameron received the Centennial Award of Merit in 2005.

He also spent time as an educator on the reserve and served as the ceremonial keeper in the community.

He was 58.

Cameron was also the father of the late Constable Robin Cameron who died in the line of duty in 2006.

Funeral arrangements are pending.