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BORN
1932
DIED
2018
FUNERAL HOME
Freda McDonald Obituary
Mrs. Freda McDonald, age 85 years, passed away peacefully in her home on Monday, January 1, 2018 with her family by her side.
Freda was born in Fort Alexander (Sagkeeng First Nation), Manitoba on April 26, 1932. Freda was a well respected Elder in native communities regionally, provincially and nationally, touching countless people with her knowledge and caring. As an expert teacher of her Ojibwe culture, Freda shared her skills with all that seeked her out. Over the years, she was the recipient of many recognition awards including the Governor General Award and being featured as the cover story in the Canadian Geographic magazine. Freda was known for her many years of involvement with the Old Fort William Native Encampment, Beendigen Women's Crisis Centre and the Lakehead University Spiritual Central. Most of all, Freda enjoyed crossword puzzles, playing scrabble and hunting down bargains at Value Village. Freda was most known for her gentle, down to earth, humble way and always welcoming everyone into her home and life.
Freda will be deeply missed by her children Gerald, Bruce, Terry, Cheryl (Brad) Kylander, Beverly Lubuk and Tracey; grandchildren Jenniffer, Billie-Leigh, Autumn, Ashley, Riely, Jodi, Tanner, Logan, Ripleigh and her great-grandchildren Taylor, Bryce, Irelynn, Liam, Jaelynn, Leigh, Wyatt and Walker. She is also survived by her siblings Sylvia Guimond and Lena Houston as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.
She was predeceased by her beloved husband William and son Lester; her parents John Philip and Mary Agnes Courchene; siblings Marcel, Mike, Marjory and John A.
Funeral Services for the late Mrs. Freda McDonald will be held on Saturday, January 6, 2018 at 1:30PM in the WESTFORT CHAPEL, 420 West Gore Street at James. Cremation will follow with interment in Sunset Memorial Gardens at a later date. A traditional Midewin Ceremony will be held on Friday, January 5, 2018 from 5:00pm until 9:00pm in the Westfort Chapel.
Should friends so desire, donations made in memory of Freda to a charity of your choice would be greatly appreciated.
Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Freda McDonald
Sponsored by Everest Funeral Chapel The Westfort Chapel.
11 Entries
January 10, 2018
Freda blessed and added her wisdom to the production of "A Man's Story" about Richard Lion's journey with prostate cancer. She blessed and added her wisdom to many other people and events. We are so grateful for her life.
Ed Long, Prostate Cancer Canada Network-Thunder Bay
Lyndon J Linklater
January 8, 2018
Freda was my boss at Old Fort William in 1982. She along with Mary, Maggie, Gilbert, Peter taught me many wonderful things! These things helped me become the person I am and I was truly blessed to have met such wonderful people!
I saw Freda a few years ago at our Culture Camp at Whitecap Dakota First Nation just outside of Saskatoon, SK.
It was great to reminisce about our times at OFW. I will never forget her, she was a remarkable woman! Deepest condolences to all of the family.
I also say hi to Cheryl and Bev!
Take care, Meegwetch Freda, RIP....
Shirley Major
January 6, 2018
My heart is broken ....my sister from another mother. We "clicked" the moment met . We didn't have to speak to each other. We would just look in each other's eyes and smile :) Will ALWAYS love you and continue to teach others all you have taught me. I cherish my drum you so wisely passed on to me.
You and Bill are together again :)
Myrna Michon
January 6, 2018
My sincere condolences to Freda's family, though I can't feel your pain, I do share your sorrow. Take strength in your memories and have faith in tomorrow.
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Carla (Gibson) Ryynanen
January 5, 2018
My heart is crying. Freda was much like my own grandma. She taught me so much about life, culture and finding myself. I love you forever Freda, "my kokum."
Carla
Cathy Banning
January 5, 2018
Deeply saddened by the loss of this beautiful Elder, I am so privileged to have received many teachings from her and with her. Condolences to her family and loved ones Chi-Meegwetch Miina wa giga wabamin
Cathy Banning
Donna Parker
January 5, 2018
Bev,and family, so sorry for the loss of your mom, thinking of you and your family ,she will be missed.
Lynda Banning
January 5, 2018
So sad to have lost a beloved teacher. My condolences to Freda's family and friends. She will be missed.
January 4, 2018
Sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with you. Scott and Bev
Denise Baxter
January 4, 2018
So sorry for the loss of your beloved. Freda shared so generously with so many people throughout her life.
Lorene Shymko
January 4, 2018
Our deepest condolences to the family. Freda was a true beacon of warmth and generosity. She was especially giving with her time as she taught many in our family mukluk making and beadwork. She had a wonderful laugh and she was so patient and kind. She was a strong and respected leader in the community and she will be missed.
The Shymko family
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