Matthew Julian Obituary – Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation Funeral & Memorial Details
The Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation is mourning the loss of Golipie Matthew Julian, a community leader and cherished member, who passed away on , at the age of 37. His unexpected death has left a significant void within his family, circle of friends, and the broader community he served.
Born on , in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Golipie was the son of the late Albert Matthew Julian and Judy Bernard-Julian. He is remembered by those who knew him as a man of gentle spirit and unwavering dedication to those around him.
Golipie’s commitment to his community extended to his professional life. After earning a plumbing degree from NSCC, he chose to remain in Paqtnkek, taking a position as a cashier at the Paqtnkek Entertainment Center when it opened in . He didn’t view the job simply as a source of income, but as an opportunity to connect with people and build relationships, a facet of his work he deeply valued.
Beyond his work, Golipie possessed a creative soul. He found expression and solace in sketching, using art as a means to explore his inner world. He also cultivated a vibrant life within online gaming communities, considering his fellow gamers an extension of his family. This highlights the increasingly important role online spaces play in providing social connection, particularly for those who may face geographical or social barriers to in-person interaction.
Those who knew Golipie often described him as a “gentle giant,” a testament to his kind heart and compassionate nature. He shared a special bond with animals, who seemed to instinctively recognize his calm and caring demeanor. This innate kindness permeated all aspects of his life, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he encountered.
Golipie is lovingly remembered by his sisters, Juliana Julian (Mario George) and Gail Marshall, both of Paqtnkek. his brothers, Colin Julian of Paqtnkek and Jay Julian (Leanne Googoo) of We’koqma’q; and foster brother Jamie LeDrew, of Paqtnkek. He is also survived by his Godfather, Anthony Nevin; and his godchildren, James LeDrew and Connor MacIsaac, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.
He was predeceased by his parents, Albert Julian and Judy Bernard-Julian; his brother, Stanley Julian; his sisters, Alicia and Tara Julian, his maternal grandmother, Mary (Joe) Bernard; maternal grandmother, Joe LaChapelle; and his paternal grandparents, Theresa (Battiste) Julian and Freeman Julian; and his godmother, Elizabeth Nevin.
A visitation was held on , beginning at 5pm at 19 Mug-A-Sun Road, Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation. A Funeral Mass was celebrated on , at 11:00am at the Immaculate Conception Church in Heatherton, presided over by Father Dennis Lamey. Following the Mass, a community feast and Salite were held at the Paqtnkek Community Complex.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to C.L. Curry Funeral Home in Antigonish. Those wishing to express their condolences online can do so at www.clcurry.com.
Golipie Matthew Julian’s passing is a profound loss for the Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation and all who knew him. He will be remembered not only for his dedication to his community and his creative spirit, but also for the simple, yet powerful, kindness he extended to everyone he met.