LAWRENCE THERRIAULT

LAWRENCE JOHN THERRIAULT July 15, 1960 ~ October 14, 2025
It is with great sorrow that we announce the unexpected passing of Lawrence Johnny Therriault / Chi Waabishki Makwak (Big White Bear) also known as Yawyee and Spike in his younger years. Born July 15, 1960 in Nakina ON. From Ongo Onigaming (Aroland First Nation) resided in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Lawrence went on to the spirit world October 15, 2025. His spirit lives on through his children Summer, Larry, Tecumseh, Keewaten, Yooie and Aiyana. His Grandchildren (Summers children) Micah, Rowan and Emilie. His Mother Cecilia, his siblings Betsy (Tony) & Conan. Cleo (Richard), Aaron (Monique), Queenie (John) Cathy and Reggie. As well as his Aunt Effie and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his father Johnny Therriault July 16, 1996 and grandparents Felix & Madeline Therriault.

Lawrence was a man of many trades. He spent his younger years working on the railroad. That's where he got his nickname Spike, he would always break the hammers hitting the rails/spikes. He worked building the road from Aroland to Ogoki, Kimberly Clark, Klengi Gold Mining, Longlac 77 Woodlands, Grand Portage Logging, Shkoday, Tikinagan Family Services and Nodin. He found his calling at Matawa as a Language Revivalist Specialist. He played a key role in creating the curriculum for the Matawa Wake Tere Language Program. He was a language carrier who was passionate about revitalizing the indigenous language. His contributions and dedication will continue to inspire us for years to come.

Lawrence attended Cambridge College and achieved a degree as Native Social Worker. He followed in his father's footsteps advocating for education. He was a board member at the Johnny Therriault School since the 1990's.

Lawrence loved to fish and hunt with his sons and friends. He spent a lot of time out on the land learning from the land. He often enjoyed visits with family, having tea, sitting around camp (his favourite place) and the fire with his sister Betsy and Tony. Ceremony was a big part of his life. He has travelled the red road since 1990. He was a men's traditional dancer, as well as a carrier of many traditional gifts. You could often find him at Pow Wows dancing with his children, nieces and nephews when they were younger.

He was an avid storyteller, loved to share legends and also a jokester. He always had a joke to share. He was sociable and outgoing. He also enjoyed going to rock concerts and Toronto Maple Leaf hockey games with his children.

He will be missed, but always with us in spirit.

A Wake will be held in Thunder Bay on Friday, October 17, 2025 from 3:00pm until 9:00pm in the WESTFORT CHAPEL, 420 West Gore Street at James.

Lawrence will then be transported home to Aroland First Nation, where a 2-Day Wake will be held in the Johnny Therriault School beginning on Saturday, October 18 at 12:00 Noon. Funeral Services Will be held in the School on Monday, October 20, 2025 at 11:00am and interment will follow in Aroland Cemetery.

Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com