Paqtnkek Community Mourns the Loss of Golipie Matthew Julian

The Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation is in mourning following the passing of Golipie Matthew Julian, who died on March 4, 2026, at the age of 37. A beloved member of the community, Julian is remembered for his kindness, gentle nature, and dedication to his family and friends.

Early Life and Education

Born in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, on November 20, 1988, Golipie Julian was the son of the late Albert Matthew Julian and Judy Bernard-Julian. He received his education at NSCC, where he graduated with a plumbing certification.

Career and Community Involvement

Julian spent several years working as a cashier at the Paqtnkek Entertainment Center, beginning when it opened in 2010. He enjoyed his role and valued the connections he made with the many visitors he met. C.L. Curry Funeral Home noted he often spoke of how much he loved meeting and chatting with people.

A Kindred Spirit

Those who knew Julian described him as a “gentle giant” with a deep love for his family, particularly his nieces and nephews. He also had a strong connection with animals, who seemed to instinctively trust his calm and compassionate demeanor. He found joy in sketching and was an active member of an online gaming community, considering his fellow gamers an extension of his family.

Family and Remembrance

Golipie Julian is survived 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 remembered by his Godfather, Anthony Nevin; and his godchildren, James LeDrew and Connor MacIsaac, along with 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.

Funeral Arrangements

Visitation was held on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 19 Mug-A-Sun Road, Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation. A Funeral Mass took place on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at 11:00 am at the Immaculate Conception Church in Heatherton, Nova Scotia, presided over by Father Dennis Lamey. A community feast and Salite followed at the Paqtnkek Community Complex. C.L. Curry Funeral Home is handling the funeral arrangements.

About Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation

Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation is an Indigenous community located near Antigonish Harbour in Nova Scotia, Canada. The community, with a history spanning thousands of years, is dedicated to preserving its culture and traditions. Learn more about Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation.