From humble beginnings working trap lines near The Pas, Lathlin was first elected as MLA for the Pas in 1990. He served in Cabinet from 1999 to his death.

"Oscar was a champion of anything that had to do with First Nation education or northern education," said Attorney General Dave Chomiak. "It was his belief that education and economic development were absolutely pivotal to the north, and that's something he never gave up on."

"I knew Oscar Lathlin from the time he first ran for election. An advocate for northern communities, he carried the double load of being a First Nation MLA. He will be missed," said Gaile Whelan Enns.

Lathlin had a long history of asthma and respiratory trouble. He was born and raised on Opaskwayak Cree Nation near The Pas and served as Chief of Opaskwayak in the 1980's.