Canadian Virtual War Memorial

Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Additional Information

S/Cst. Massan was born at Big Trout Lake in Northern Ontario and was a member of the Swampy Cree Tribe. He was first hired as a temporary winter guide in November 1927 and was discharged in April 1928. At the termination of his period of engagement, S/Cst. Massan was said to have been "reliable, honest, trustworthy and zealous in the performance of his duties." In November 1928, S/Cst. Massan was reengaged as a full-time guide. He had a reputation of being a good interpreter and guide who knew the coast and the country well. S/Cst. Massan was camping with Cst. Macdonnell on a small island that was surrounded by ice. A sudden thaw and runoff quickly began to flood the island while they slept. They were unable to make it safely to shore. S/Cst. Massan was married to Nora and they had 4 children: Prudence, Norwood, Jessie and Roma.

Commemorated on Page 200 of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Honour Roll Book.