Margaret Brasseur

Margaret Brasseur, 90, passed away at the Atikokan General Hospital on Friday, September 4, 2015 with her family at her bedside.

Margaret was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba on October 15, 1924 to John and Anna Kindzierski. She grew up on the family homestead in Carrick, Manitoba, where she attended school and assisted with the many chores of the home and farm land. Margaret left Carrick to work in the food industry in Geraldton.

She returned home where she met the love of her life Louis Brasseur, whom she married. Margaret and Louis had their first born and lived in Farrington, Ontario, for a short time then moved on to Atikokan, where they continued to add to their family.

Margaret worked for Lee’s Restaurant, Country Kitchen, and the restaurant at the Steep Rock Hotel. Her home was always open to old and new family and friends. Margaret loved her yard; if you happened to drive by early in the mornings, you would find her out there pulling weeds, making sure her bird feeders were full and tending her small vegetable garden.

Margaret loved life like no other. She had an enormous heart for anyone and everything. You came to her a stranger but you left her home like part of her family.

Margaret’s children, grandchildren and great grandchildren made life worth living for her; she was very, very proud of their achievements.

Margaret is survived by her son Ken (Susan), daughters Evelyn, Kathy (Dan), Pat, Cindy (Rick); grandchildren Sherry and Jeremy, Lori and Mike, Corey and Betty, Christie, Jennifer, Tammy and Mike, Angela and Rob, Chantel and Curtis, Michele and John, Pam; and great grandchildren Nikki and Travis, Karleigh and Kiela, Brittany and Courtney, Marissa, Jasmine and Marcus, Camden, Michael, Brianna, Justin and Ty, Linkyn and Brooklyn, Jayce; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband Louis, parents John and Anna, brother Peter, sisters Tillie, Mary, Kay and Olga, and grandson Terry.

In lieu of flowers, Margaret wished for donations towards the Atikokan General Hospital. A Funeral service will be held at St. Patrick’s Church on Wednesday, September 16, at 11 am, with Father Elvis officiating. Burial will follow at the Little Falls Cemetery.

Rest in peace dearest mother, you will never be forgotten, for your love lives on in our hearts.

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With great sadness, the family of Ronald Bang, resident of Thunder Bay, announce his sudden passing, age 76, on September 5, 2015 at TBRHSC (diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia). Family and dear friend Sonja were at his bedside.

Born July 16, 1939 at the Red Cross Emo Hospital, he spent his early childhood surrounded by nature in North Branch and the Nestor Falls areas.

Cherished memories will be forever held by Eunice (Kangas), wife of 53 years, sons Byron and Glen, daughters Paula (Rob), Candace (Pete), sister Marie Warren, and brother Louis (Beverly). Surviving are several special nieces, nephews and friends, especially cousin Gaylord, who we love visiting and Norman Jewett, Ron’s fishing buddy.

He will be reuniting with his father Rueben and mother Edith, whom he loved dearly. At their Pine Lake Tourist Lodge, Ron would go downhill and light up Grandma’s huge kitchen woodstove for her busy day, make coffee and bring it to them. Ron also kept his Norwegian grandpa Trygve company often at his ‘Pine Bliss’ pioneer log cabin after losing grandma Marie Methune accidentally. Ron would accompany his grandpa to the small local North Branch Village Church for Sunday School and service.

He was also predeceased by Grandma and Grandpa Kangas, his ‘Uncle Fin’ and many other special aunts, uncles and cousins in the Williamson, Jewett, and Bang (US) families.

Ron entered the job market early, at 14, being fully grown in size; he started at CNR (driving included). In the 1960s, he worked underground mining at Thompson, Manitoba, Red Lake, and the two iron mines in Atikokan (shovel operator). After the mine closures, he started self-employment as a trucker on the pipeline and several out-of-town gravelling forestry access roads He had a close bond with a small crew of truckers (Uve, ‘Mooch’ (Eric Michelis), the Colonel Don Alexander, Calhoun, and B.R. Davidson – all camping buddies!).

Mom and boys accompanied our trucker on the summer holidays with our small travel trailer to some remote backwoods spot, where he would drop half a load of sand for the boys’ ‘Tonka Trucking Company’ – within a couple of weeks a network of roads were built. These were truly treasured summers! Ron spent many fishing and tenting trips with Candy and Paula and hours of fun at our Factor Lake cabin water-skiing. Dad was our master chef camp cook!

If friends wish to make a donation in Ron’s memory, family would appreciate it to: Alzheimer’s Society of Thunder Bay, 310 – 180 Park Avenue, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 6J4 or to the Atikokan General Hospital Celebration of Friends Fund. 120 Dorothy Street, Atikokan, ON P0T 1C0.

Cremation has taken place, a Memorial Service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com

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Barbara McKay

Barbara Ruth McKay, 85, passed away in her sleep at Rainycrest Home for the Aged, on September 16, 2015 with her family by her side.

She was born August 4, 1930 in Fort Frances, Ontario, to Cecil and Lilian Gregory, where she resided most of her life.

Barb married Kenneth Carmody and together they had four children: Kenny, Carolyn, Douglas, and Chris. She later married Alan McKay and gained four stepchildren: Glenda, Jennifer, Kathy, and Tom.

Barb always loved travelling whether it was camping on Caliper Lake, or a road trip across the country. She and Alan often drove out to Western Canada, taking the time to stop and visit family along the way. Family truly meant everything to Barb. When she wasn’t able to go out to visit her siblings or children, she loved hosting family at their home in Fort Frances. Barb was an excellent host and took pride is keeping her guests well fed. Cooking and caring for others were two of her greatest passions.

Barb is survived by her husband Allan, children Ken Carmody of Fort Frances, Carolyn (John) of Thunder Bay, Chris (Linda) Carmody of Emo, Ontario, and step-children Glenda Richert of Edmonton, Jennifer Sarnosky of Sherwood Park, Alberta, Kathy McAllister of Norwood, Ontario, and Tom (Helen) McKay of London, Ontario; siblings Aveleine (Jack) O’Neil, David (Marie) Gregory, Dennis Gregory, Garry (Donelda) Gregory, Lucy Dolph, Linda Degelman, and Stuart (Karen) Gregory. Barb is also survived by several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was pre-deceased by her parents Cecil and Lilian Gregory, brother-in-law Jack O’Neil, and son Douglas Carmody.

Funeral services were held at the United Church in Fort Frances September 22. The pallbearers were Chris Carmody, Terry Carmody, Ken Carmody, Brayden Morriseau, Jason Caul and Garry Gregory.

If desired, donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or Alzheimer’s Society of Ontario. Online condolences can be made in care of www.GreensFuneralHomeFortFrances.com

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Raymond Maki

Peacefully on September 15, 2015, Raymond Joseph Maki passed away at St. Boniface General Hospital in Winnipeg. Raymond was born on November 14, 1937 to Matti and Hilma Maki in Fort Frances, Ontario.

Throughout his lifetime, he had many occupations, firefighter, nurse, pilot, carpenter, diesel mechanic, electrician, plumber… there are too many to count. He loved his work, he dedicated many years to satisfy his family’s needs. He was a man who could do anything and did everything.

Raymond will be greatly missed by his daughters and sons Rose Mckone, Barbara, Laura, Christine Gallenger (Murray), Wayne Maki, Robert Maki, Rick Keeash, Vanessa Keeash, Tammy Keeash-Maki (Rodney), Tiffany Maki, Tanya Maki (Mike), and Russell Maki, his brother Sulu Maki, and sister Helen Allen. Also by his many family members, his grand children, and great-grand children.

Raymond was pre-deceased by his mother Hilma Maki, father Matti Maki, his sisters Miliya and Mamie Maki, his brother Matti Peramaki, and son Ryan Keeash.

A memorial service was held on Monday, September 21, from Off Lake Evangelical Covenant Church, Emo, Ontario. Internment followed at Pine Ridge Cemetery in North Branch, Township of Morley. Online condolences may be offered at www.NorthRidgeFuneralHome.com.

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Lil Devisscher

Lily Nora Devisscher passed away peacefully September 21, 2015, at the Atikokan General Hospital in the sunroom of Extended Care, surrounded by her family and friends.

Lil was born in Ericksdale, Manitoba. After she graduated from Nursing School she worked at the Selkirk General and Mental Health Hospital. Lil also did outpost nursing at Norway House, Manitoba. She loved to tell stories about this experience. She came to Atikokan in the early 190s and was joined by her husband to be Jules Devisscher in 1953. They were married in Atikokan and raised three children, Wayne, Garry and Debra. Mom & Dad gave us kids a place on Crystal Lake to spend our summers. The cabin became a meeting place for a continual flow of visiting relatives and friends over the years.

Lil was a remarkable woman who gave of herself to her family and her community. She was a dedicated nurse and volunteer. She loved adventure and loved the outdoors: skiing, hiking, swimming, blueberry picking, walking along the railway tracks to Little Falls with Rosebud, canoeing, fishing, and of course rock collecting. These all gave her great joy.

She also enjoyed travelling with her daughter Deb to Germany to visit Helen and Fritz, Wendy Riding in Vancouver, Hawaii with Jules and Bob and Lis Riding, Florida with friends, and Peterborough to visit Debra and her husband Dennis. Of course, visiting friendly Manitoba where all her and Jules’ extended family lived was always on the top of the list throughout the years.

Over her Atikokan years, Lil volunteered in so many ways; some of which included the Horticultural Club, delivering books, driving the ambulance to Thunder Bay, and teaching young kids how to curl. Lil was such a part of the Atikokan community and would offer her services whenever needed or asked. She wouldn’t have had it any other way.

We, – Wayne, Garry and Debra – have been fortunate to have been unconditionally loved by her. Someone said to us, ‘She was the glue that held everything together’. We would definitely agree with that. We are sure she is continuing her adventures somewhere! Everyone we have met over these past days have a story about how amazing mom was from being the best hockey mom, to treating their baby as the most precious, to giving directions to take down the Horticultural Society’s hanging baskets of flowers. Lil was a compassionate, energetic, positive woman with a great sense of humour.

Lily Devisscher is survived by her children Wayne, Debra (Dennis), and Garry; brother George Riding (Emily deceased) and his children and their families, Brett & Sandy, Clint and Randy; sister Maryann Rothwell (Glen) and her children Terry, Karen and Joann; brother Johny’s wife Albena and their four children Rick, Lori, Cindy and Mark. She was pre-deceased by her brothers’ Jimmy, Johny, and Bob, her husband Jules ‘Duke’ Devisscher, and her sister May Parks.

Donations in Lil’s memory may be made to the Extended Care Wing of the Atikokan General Hospital, the Alzheimer’s Society, or any local charity of your choice.

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Carole Joyce Robinson

It is with great sadness that the family of Carole Joyce Robinson (née Gorrill) announce her passing at the age of 77 on Thursday, October 15, 2015, at the Atikokan General Hospital with her family by her side.

Carole was the fourth daughter of Fred and Matilda ‘Tillie’ (née Kreger) Gorrill born on September 11, 1938 in Rainy River, Ontario. Fred passed away soon after she was born. Tillie married Adolph Werner and together they raised the girls and their son Edward.

Carole married Clifford Robinson on September 14, 1957, and together they raised their children, Darrell, Leslie, and Corinne (‘Cori’). The family moved to many cities across the U.S. following Cliff’s work with CAC, and spent summers in Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and St. Lucia. The family made many life-long friends along the way, some of which still exchanged Christmas cards. The family moved back to Canada in 1972 residing in a few places before settling back in Atikokan in 1974. Soon Carole found work at Hudson’s Bay Co., which then switched to Zellers, where she worked until going over to Atikokan Foodland. Eventually, Carole began work with Canada Post where she retired in 2000.

Carole was an avid seamstress making dresses for herself, a matching one for Cori and her dollies. Most of the clothing the children wore was handmade. She always had projects on the go, especially for her Church, making quilts and sundresses from repurposed pillowcases. If there was a project to help the less fortunate, Carole was onboard. Her care and concern for others kept her busy, as she offered to help at the drop of a hat.

Carole spent countless hours volunteering for local organizations, such as the Faith Lutheran Foodbank, the Atikokan Horticultural Society, the Pictograph Gallery, the Christmas Bird Count, and was a member of the Quilt Guild, and the Atikokan Entertainment Series, which she and Cori would attend together. Many years were spent as members of the Sno-Ho Club, often taking day trips by snowmachine to Ely with friends.

Cliff and Carole enjoyed trips to B.C., Mexico, Hawaii, and a cruise one time, but mostly enjoyed trips to Branson MI, and Laughlin NV with friends and family, especially when a detour to Louisiana was planned to visit Cliff’s big brother and family.

All of her life, Carole loved nature, especially birds. Her camera was either in her hand or within arm’s reach… just in case. Her ability to identify birdcalls and birds in flight was impressive. We will all fondly remember the clock at the cabin on Turtle Lake and its birdcalls every hour. She was forever nursing fledglings or those stunned by window impacts. She kept budgies for many years, and would often let them exercise around the house.

Carole’s other great love was gardening, a passion she learned from her late father, Adolph. She kept a small vegetable garden at the cabin, many flowerbeds, as well as flowerbeds at the home in town. When the Forget-Me-Nots went to seed, she would carry a clump on her way to work over the footbridge, and toss them over. So, the next time you cross it, have a look at the riverbank, and see the sea of little blue blooms and remember Carole.

Carole was pre-deceased by her parents, stepfather, father-in-law Les Robinson, mother-in-law Nora Robinson, siblings Edward Werner, and Joan Ward, brothers-in-law Pat Robinson, Bud and Donna Robinson, Dwight Robinson, Mel Robinson, and Cecil Leif.

Carole is survived by her husband Cliff, and their children and families: Darrell (Marianne) Robinson, Derek (Janice Wilson) and Kacia Robinson, Angela (Ken) McGeachy, Keith (Angela) Robinson, Lucas Robinson; Les Robinson; Cori (Ken) Matichuk, Alexis Matichuk (Nick Nelson), Kenadie Nelson and Zachary Nelson, Devin Matichuk and Reid Goodman; her very special sisters Ginny Leif and Sylvia Coloumbe; brothers-in-law Sid Ward, Bill (Kathy) Robinson, Len (Becky) Robinson, sisters-in-law, Mary Ellen Werner, Ruthie Robinson, Sharon Robinson, Valerie Desserre, Marlene Robinson, Candace (Malcolm) Kilbreath , and her Aunt Elsie Ewald, as well as many special nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services were held at the Faith Lutheran Church, October 23, 2015. Interment followed the service at the Little Falls Cemetery, Atikokan, ON. Honorary Pallbearers were Ken and Marie Johnson, Sid Ward, Glen Ward, Bryan Desrosiers, and Todd Coloumbe.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Faith Lutheran Church Foodbank (Box 266, Atikokan, ON P0T1C0), the Faith Lutheran Church (same address), the Canadian Cancer Society, or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be offered at www. NorthridgeFuneralHome.com

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Marjorie Croome

Marjorie Clara Croome (née Brown), 97, passed peacefully with family by her side October 20, 2015.

Marjorie worked for the Township of Atikokan from 1961 to 1982, and was active in the Anglican Church Women and the Order of the Eastern Star. She enjoyed travel, cards at the Pioneer Centre, gardening, and especially spending time with her family. Her children and grandchildren were her life, she always said.

She was the loving mother of daughter Liz (Darrell) Chambers and son Herb (Mary); special grandmother to Lisa Chambers (Leo), Dorion, Jodie (Jeff) Hare, Carissa (Rob) Mininni, Brad (Tracy) Croome; and great grandmother to Jacob, Shailyn, Elias, Cheyenne, Cohen, Ozzy, Emmett, Avery, Mason, Brooklyn, Jonathan and Rhyse. She is survived by sister-in-law Merveline Brown and many nieces and nephews who she loved dearly. She was pre-deceased by husband William R. Croome, brother Gerald Brown, sisters and brother-in-laws Josephine (Cam) Benson, Ruby (Craig) Duns and nephew William Cheslock.

Funeral services were held October 24, 2015 at the Church of the Good Shepherd. Luncheon followed at the Legion after a private internment. In lieu of flowers, donations would be appreciated to the Church of the Good Shepherd, the Strengthening the Heart of Our Community (arena-pool) fund, or the Canadian Hearing Society.

“Say not in grief, she is no more; but live in thankfulness that she was.”

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Katherine Edna Hogarth

Katherine Edna Hogarth passed away on October 5, 2015, at Lion’s Gate Hospital in North Vancouver, BC.

She was born to Kenneth and Jessie McRorie on January 29, 1947, in Port Arthur, Ontario. She lived in Atikokan, Ontario until 1961 and moved to British Columbia afterwards. Kathy graduated from Magee Secondary School in Vancouver, BC in 1965 and received her nursing degree from the Royal Columbian School of Nursing in 1968. She married John David Hogarth in 1969. They lived together in Coquitlam before relocating to Vernon in 1973.

Kathy was passionate about her nursing career and was instrumental in the redesign of the Emergency Department at the Vernon Jubilee Hospital. She retired as Head Nurse of the Emergency Department in 1989.

Kathy is survived by her son Don, sister Anne, grandchildren James and Anna, and several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made out to the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation Emergency Department Fund – www.VJHfoundation.org. A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 7 at the Boal Chapel and Memorial Gardens in North Vancouver, BC.

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Walter Beyak

Walt’s journey ended peacefully on November 3 and he enjoyed every minute of his adventure.

Walt started his journey of life in Vita, Manitoba, 1924. He was one of eight children. As a young man, he worked a variety of jobs from helping in a flour mill, to labouring in a gold mine, to attending to thirsty patrons in the hotel business.

When the war broke out, Walt wanted to help his country so he enlisted in the army, then the air force. He became a member of the Legion in Rainy River in 1945.

Walt had a keen sense of business. He started his first business in Atikokan and named it Walt’s Dry Goods. He served Atikokan well. Walt worked as the Justice of the Peace, was involved with the Masons, assisted in the creation of the Sportsman’s Club, and joined in efforts of cottage development. He was a member of the Kiwanis and helped with the Christmas Cheer campaign for many years. Walt was an influential member of the Greek Orthodox Church and enjoyed caroling during the Ukrainian Christmas season.

If Walt was outdoors in the bush, then he was happy. Countless hours were spent picking wild mushrooms and loads of blueberries. Hunting and fishing were his passions, too. Being outdoors taught him how to shoot the bull and to never let ‘Big Luke’ get away. If Walt was found indoors, then he, undoubtedly, would be playing cards, usually Canasta.

Walt loved his family. His kids Bayne (John), Marty (Jo-Anne), and Randy (Pauline), his grandchildren Chris (Ara), Adi (Erik), Amber, Lucas, and Natasha, and his great grandkids Emma and Kaden, all loved their ‘Dido’ back. Most of all, Walt loved his wife of 69 years, Millie. We will all miss you very much.

A memorial service will be held on Thursday, November 12, 1 pm at the Church of the Good Shepherd, with a gathering of friends to follow at the Legion Hall. Donations can be made to the charity of your choice.

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Don Legaree

Donald Lawrence Legaree of Atikokan, Ontario died after a brief illness on November 11, 2015 with members of his family at his side.

Born in Fort Frances, Ontario on December 26, 1934, Don was raised during the depression and war years. While times were tough, his mother raised Don and his siblings to be respectful and to always look for ways to help others in the community.

He moved to Atikokan in 1951 and then on to Thunder Bay before returning to Atikokan in 1956 where he met his future wife, Vivien Loraine Olson. They were married in Atikokan on April 24, 1958. Over the next few years, children Ian, Robin, Lorene, Kristi and Blaine joined the family. In the late 1960s, Don started training to become an electrician. His hard work and commitment to providing more for his family were an inspiration to his children. During his career Don worked at Steep Rock and Caland Iron Ore Mines and the CNR in Atikokan, Ontario Hydro, and Chisolm Electric in Medicine Hat, Alberta.

Don’s second birthday came in 1979 when he joined Alcoholics Anonymous. His commitment to sobriety and support for many others who face similar challenges has left an important mark on the community. Don will be fondly remembered for his hobbies of gardening and painting that he took up in his retirement and for the joy he had in seeing his family grow and prosper.

Don’s wife Vivien passed away in 2013. He is survived by son Ian (Shawna Lampi-Legaree) of Yellowknife, daughters Robin (Brent) Johnson, Lorene (Jeff Lehman) Legaree and Kristi Legaree of Atikokan, and son Blaine (Terri-Ann) Legaree of Fort McMurray; brother Roy Legarie (Jean), sister Madeleine Martin (Ken) and sister-in-law Joy Legaree of Fort Frances and sister Gladys Matkowski of Thunder Bay; brothers-in-law Gordon Olson and Ralph (Adrienne) Olson of Bergland, sisters-in-law Anne (Marvin) Strom of Atikokan and Laurel (John) Cote of Dryden.

He was also the proud grandfather of Alexander, Stephen (Cindy Veroba) and Sean Legaree; Beau (Lindsay), Jacob (Carolyn) and Rachel Johnson; Paige (Brad) Gascoigne, and Grant Legaree; and Judah, Levi and Elijah Legaree and great grandchildren Eli and Ethan Johnson, Burke Veroba-Legaree, Quinn and Cora Johnson and Lincoln Gascoigne.

Don was predeceased by his granddaughter Meredith Ivall; parents Alcide and Mary Ann (Oster) Legaree; brothers Frances, Leonard and Jerry and sisters Anna and Norma Jean.

A memorial service was held on Monday, November 16 the Royal Canadian Legion in Atikokan. A mass was held at the Catholic Church in Atikokan on the same date. Cremation has taken place with interment in the Little Falls Cemetery at a later date. The honourary pallbearers were his grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Atikokan General Hospital Foundation would be appreciated by the family.

Online condolences may be made in care of www.GreenFuneralHomeFortFrances.com.

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Ken Hirschfeldt

Kenneth Hirschfeldt, 60, of Thunder Bay, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, November 9, 2015.

Ken was born and raised in Atikokan, where he attended local schools and Atikokan High. He moved to Thunder Bay in the 1970s to attend Lakehead University, and then worked for over 30 years at Thunder Bay Transit, retiring in the spring of 2015 as a fare box technician and lead hand on the service crew. A fast and efficient worker, Ken was a model employee who hardly ever booked off sick and was proud of the fact that he was able to retire early with two and a half years of banked sick time.

Always a gentleman, Ken was a quiet, easy going guy who was well known, well respected and well liked. Known for his quick witted sense of humour, Ken was quick at just about everything else he did too (especially fast pace golf). He would breeze in and out of a room or a situation and be on his way again in the blink of an eye. Ken was a well-rounded athlete, playing football, hockey, curling, and squash; his two biggest passions were golf and soccer. Ken played a big part in creating a lot of fond memories for his golf and soccer buddies on the numerous road trips to the USA. Ken would never hesitate to put a few shillings on the line either, or to place a bet on the a few horses along the way. Just three weeks ago he took a trip to Las Vegas to see a PGA Tour event and also enjoyed a recent trip down memory lane to Atikokan with his sister and two brothers.

Ken was pre-deceased by his parents Fred and Kay Hirschfeldt. He is survived by his brothers Dean (Marie), and Doug; sister Pat (Jim); and nieces Christle and Janelle and their families. Ken will also be greatly missed by his TGA (Transit) Tour golf buddies, his soccer buddies, and the Wednesday night cribbage and the Sunday morning poker gangs.

If friends so desire, donations made in memory of Ken to the Parkinson Society of Canada or to the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be greatly appreciated. on-line condolences may be made at www.EverestOfThunderBay.com.

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Earl Rodger

It is with sad hearts, the family of Earl Rodger announce his passing on November 19, 2015, with his family by his side.

Earl was born in Sequin Falls November 17, 1926, to Violet and Gordon Rodger. He married Norma September 17, 1948; after a brief stay in Parry Sound, they moved to Atikokan in 1950, where they raised their family.

He was a hard worker throughout his life and took pride in all his accomplishments. Over the years he worked at various jobs: a trucking business, Steep Rock Iron Mines, Ontario Hydro, Atikokan Township Police, store owner, carpenter, and a security guard at AFP, and many side jobs, he would help all he could. He loved spending time outdoors, especially at the garden at Hardy dam, where he could grow anything you wanted, and lots of it, so he could fill his truck and bring it to town to share with all. He grew many pumpkins for the kids in schools, raised chickens, and even tried a worm farm – he was always up for a challenge.

Earl would spend as much time as he could at his cabin on Marion Lake. He loved to cook breakfast and organized an annual breakfast for his buddies, which later became known as the Marion Lake breakfast club. Many horseshoe tournaments were organized and held at his place, campfires, corn roasts, and many gatherings of families and friends.

Earl was a dedicated Legion member for over 70 years; he served as president for many of those years. A plaque in honour of him will be hung at the Legion to commemorate his years of service and dedication to Branch #145.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife Norma, his parents, two brothers, and three sisters. He is survived by his children Gwen (Pat), Susan, Terry, Glenna (Fred), and Lori (Bob); grandchildren; Justin, Nicole, Bill (Kara), Melissa (Todd), great grandchildren Kaden and Ben, sisters Eunice and Myrna, and brother in-law Bill, and many nieces and nephews.

Earl was a dedicated husband and father, always willing to help his family with anything, anywhere at anytime. He will be sadly missed.

A memorial tea was held November 28 at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch #145. A private burial will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #145, or a charity of your choice. Online condolences may be made in care of www.GreenFuneralHomeFortFrances.com.

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Ronald Ian Shakespeare

Ian was born at Grace Hospital in Winnipeg, Manitoba on November 5, 1966 and passed away at his home in Winnipeg on November 10, 2015.

He moved to Atikokan at the early age of 3½ years with his mom and sister, after the passing of his dad. He spent all of his school years growing up and graduating in Atikokan. He then went on to Confederation College in Thunder Bay. In the mid-1990s, Ian moved to Winnipeg where he remained until his passing. Atikokan was still always home.

His passions in life were always family, especially his son Christian, his friends and music.

Ian leaves behind his mom Bunty, step-dad Howie, son Christian, and sister Kim. Also left behind were his very special persons – friend Susan, niece Marissa, grandmother Janet Shakespeare, aunts Tami and Pat, and uncle John, as well as his ‘big bro’ Ray and several other aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

A come and go celebration in his memory will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion in Atikokan December 6, from 2 to 4 pm. Cremation has taken place and inurnment will take place at a later date.

Donations may be made to a charity of your choice or to an account held in trust of his son at TD-Canada Trust.

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Elizabeth Jane Marr

Beth Marr (née Maher), 89, slipped away from our world to another on May 9, 2016.

Beth was born July 23, 1926 in Fort Frances and lived her early years in McIrvine. She graduated from high school and attended normal school in North Bay. Her first years of teaching were in La Valley and at Robert Moore.

She was united in marriage with Bill on June 15, 1949. They moved to Atikokan in 1950 with their infant daughter Linda-Beth. Beth pursued her teaching career again in 1955 and taught until 1985. After Bill sold his pharmacy in 1987, they relocated to Kenora to be a daily presence in their grandchildren’s lives.

Bill, Beth, Linda and Blair moved to Winnipeg in 2009 and lived together. The brightest part of their day was the daily visit of great granddaughter Emily.

Beth loved her teaching career. She continued after retirement to have an avid interest in education. She listened to her grandchildren’s days in their classrooms, often giving advice and relating similar situations in her career.

Beth curled, bowled and played golf. She never took games too seriously and would often stop counting her score in golf after a particularly frustrating hole. She loved her summers at Eva Lake where family and friends would often congregate. She always enjoyed a good time. Beth was a strong and unconventional woman. Cooking was never her style and the family joke was that she invented take-out in Atikokan. She instilled a strong sense of feminism in her daughter and grandchildren. She had an unwavering belief in equality, regardless of race, creed, colour or gender. She was passionate about politics, loved her mystery books and crosswords.

Beth is lovingly remembered by her soulmate of 73 years Bill; daughter Linda-Beth and son-in-law Blair; her pride and joy, grandchildren Lisa-Beth and David, and her very special love, great-granddaughter Emily. Also surviving are her brother Jim (Ella-Mae); sisters Ilene and Helen; sister-in-law Barbara, as well as numerous nieces and nephews and daughter Noreen (Greg).

Beth was predeceased by parents Bill and Elizabeth, mother-in-law Maude and father-in-law Harry, brother Bill, sister Bertha and brother-in-law Gerry, sister Kathleen, brother-in-law Dick, sister-in-law and brother-in-law Jack and Muriel, nephew Jackie and nieces Judy, Wendy and Nancy.

At her request there will be no service. The family will gather for a celebration of life in June. Flowers are gratefully declined; donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of Manitoba (120 Donald Street, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4G2) or a charity of one’s choice.

“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” ~ Dr. Seuss

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Archie Jurić

Arsen ‘Archie’ Jurić, 76, passed away at the Toronto General Hospital on Monday, May 2, 2016.

Residing in Atikokan from 1964 to 1981, Archie worked at Caland Ore. He was a proud and dynamic man with a passion for adventure, travel, music, and family. Everyone who was touched by Archie will miss his adventurous spirit, mischievousness, generosity, big heart, humanity, and friendship. His great soul will stay with us always.

He is survived by his cherished wife, beloved soulmate and dance partner of 51 years to Janina Jurić (nee Byczyk) of Simcoe; children Adrian Jurić of Dubai and Tanja Jurić-Strong (Scott) of Toronto, their children Duncan and Ruby. Archie will be lovingly remembered by his siblings Dragica Bišćan and Nikola Jurić (Irena), all of Croatia and by many nieces, nephews and extended family; Janina’s mother, Maria Byczyk of Simcoe, and siblings, Emilia Byczyk (Eric), Krystyna Bednarski (late Marjan) and Richard Byczyk (Donna).

He was pre-deceased by his parents, Nikola and Ljubica Jurić, brothers Josip and Srećko Jurić, and cousin Ivan Tokich (‘Jungle Jim’).

A funeral service was held in Jason Smith Funeral Chapel, Simcoe. Those wishing to share their memories of Archie are asked to email reflections to janina.juric@gmail.com or make online condolences at www.SmithFuneralChapel.com.

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Arlene Spilchuk

With great sadness we announce the passing of Arlene Rosetta Spilchuk (née Pidhorney), 65. Arlene passed away peacefully, with family by her side, at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre on May 19, 2016.

Born August 15, 1950, in Wadena, Saskatchewan, Arlene was the eldest of seven. The family moved to Winnipeg, where she resided through her teenage years. She moved to Atikokan in 1970.

After greatly enjoying a long and satisfying career as an office manager at M & C Motors Ltd., Arlene then discovered her true passion in the art of crafting. She was an active and dedicated volunteer with Girl Guides of Canada, recently receiving her 45-year membership pin.

Arlene is survived by her loving husband, Asko Natti; children Brendan Spilchuk (Terri) and Erin Spilchuk (David); four beautiful grandchildren, Sarah Allyson, Tristian, Tori, and Kianna; five sisters and a brother, Shirley Swan, Marie Pidhorney, Lin Edwards, Laurie Meagher (Terry), Sue Pitney, and Barry Pitney (Laurie).

She was pre-deceased by her parents, Metro and Victoria Pidhorney.

Cremation has taken place, and in keeping with Arlene’s wishes, a private family service will be held at a later date.

In memory of Arlene, donations may be made to the Sjögren’s Society of Canada (214-505 Park Road North, Brantford, ON  N3R 7K8).

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Robert Michels

Robert (Bob) Michels, 76, passed away peacefully May 22, 2016 at St. Joseph’s Hospice in Thunder Bay, Ontario with his family by his side.

Bob was born on September 5, 1939 in Fort William to parents Frances and Christian Michels.

He spent his childhood on McGregor Avenue traveling the city bus to listen to the music of the city bands which sparked the continuous enjoyment of music. Bob loved to share his tales and vast experiences as a young man working at the Great Lakes Bush Camp and the Mill, as a gate man at the city dump, summers at Sandy Beach, and his career with Clare Mapledoram Agencies. Beginning in the 1970s Bob’s desire for continuous knowledge, new challenges, and experiences started with the opportunity he had to participate in a Rotary Fellowship in England. Then, with a young family Bob and Peggy embarked on a new life moving from Thunder Bay to Quetico Centre, where he managed the heavy equipment operators’ course and established himself as leader, catalyst, and mentor for innovative leadership with numerous local, regional and national groups.

Bob sought further challenges and growth when he moved on to become head of the Atikokan Economic Development Corp. in 1986, and following that, during his many years running his own business as a management consultant. During his time in Atikokan, Bob joined the Atikokan Lions Club (1986) and went on to become a life member of Lions International.

His most rewarding career was his appointment on June 18, 2003 to the Ontario Courts as a Justice of the Peace. His approachable nature combined with his genuine interest and unique perspective garnered the respect and attention of his family, friends, and peers seeking guidance or an ear to bend.  From behind the bench of the Courthouse, the office in the Voyageur Mall in Atikokan, or catching a minute alone during a special event, Bob was there to offer guidance, wisdom, perspective, and support to friends, family and colleagues alike.

Bob is lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years Peggy, and three children, Chris (Eileen) Michels, Robert (Shannon) Michels, and Katie (Malcolm) Clarke. He is survived by his sister Margaret McKay, sister Anne Bailey and brother-in-law Jack Bailey. He was thrilled with his seven grandchildren, who provided more ears to hear his stories, Caelan, Gillian, Daniel, Ryan, Rachel, Isabelle and Adam.

He was preceded in death by his mother Frances, father Christian, brother Jack, sister Frances Morin, nephews John and Jim Michels, niece Patricia Bailey and great niece Meghan McQuiggan.

A funeral service was held May 28 at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, with the Venerable Deborah Kraft officiating. A celebration of Bob’s life followed at the Valhalla Inn. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Thunder Bay Regional Hospital Foundation directed to the Lions Vision Care Center, St. Paul’s Church Memorial Fund, or the John Howard Society. Condolences can be entered online to http://jenkensfuneral.ca.

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Richard King

Richard Melvin King, 56, passed away June 14, 2016 at Red Deer Hospital in Alberta after a short illness.

Richard was born August 1, 1959, in Atikokan, Ontario, and lived here through his childhood and youth. After a stint in Alberta for work, he came back to Atikokan and worked for many years with Stan Bates Construction. In 1998, he headed back out west, Alberta again, working for Nana Contracting at Diavik Diamond Mines and Snap Lake Diamond Mine.

Richard enjoyed hunting and fishing, going on trips to Mexico, and working around rock crushers.

He is survived by his mother, Verna King, daughter Sherri King, son Shawn King, sister Patty McMullen, brother Darren King, grandchildren Christine, Alex, Harleigh and Leighton, niece Melissa Bates, nephews Kyle Bates, Tylor McMillan, and Chad McMillan.

Funeral services will be held at a later date.

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Tony Zerebeski

With heartfelt sorrow we announce the passing of Tony Zerebeski on Sunday June 26, 2016 after a short illness.

He was a wonderful husband, great father, and a very proud grandfather (Dedo). He was born on October 23, 1946 in Atikokan, Ontario, where he received his education. He married Mary Jean (Maki) on November 21, 1969 and they had three children. Tony worked for Steep Rock Iron Mines until it closed in 1979, when the family moved to Edson, Alberta.

Tony loved decorating for Christmas, which for him lasted all year long. He also enjoyed doing jigsaw puzzles, but his biggest enjoyment was his grandchildren.

Tony leaves behind, his loving wife of 46 years Mary Jean of Edson Alberta, sons William (Joanie) of Atikokan, Nicholas and partner Jolene Hunter, of Edson, and daughter Lee-Ann (Brian) Bischke of Edson. The grandchildren are Tony and Robyn Zerebeski of Atikokan, Brett Bryldt, Kiley and Ashley Bischke, and step-grandchildren Miranda Bischke, Chance, Jordan, and Cole Boarer, all of Edson. Tony is also survived by his sisters Mary Wiersema, of Atikokan, Roselyn (William) Gross, of Vernon, B.C., Lily (Dennis) Howard of Beamsville, Ontario, and Eva (Chris) Speck of Atikokan, and brothers John (Liz) of Logan Lake, B.C., and Raymond (Wendy) of Kamloops, B.C.

He was pre-deceased by his parents William and Annie Zerebeski, brother Randy and brother-in-law Harry Wiesema.

Cremation has taken place and a service was held in Edson, Alberta on July 2. A service will be held in Atikokan at a later date. Memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.

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Vernon Wright

Vernon Joseph Wright, 65, of Atikokan, Ontario passed away peacefully on July 8, 2016 surrounded by family at Thunder Bay Regional Hospital.

Vernon was born in Fort Frances, Ontario on September 14, 1950 to Donald and Laura Wright. Vernon grew up on the lake and had a passion for fishing, hunting, and the great outdoors. He will be missed and fondly remembered by his family and friends.

Vernon is survived by his children Kim (Mike) of Marathon, Ontario, Janet (Brian) of Winnipeg, and Rory (Babes) of Atikokan, grandchildren Shaina, Paige, Tyson and Tristan, sister-in-law Margaret, nieces Tiffany and Valerie, and nephew Donald. He was predeceased by his father Don (1990), mother Laura (2003), and brother Ed (2012).

A private memorial service held by his family will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations in Vernon’s memory to Tamarak House in Thunder Bay would be greatly appreciated.

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