Melvin James “Begamaanaakwad” Morrisseau, 68, of Couchiching First Nation, passed away peacefully, with his family by his side, on Thursday, July 30, 2015 at La Verendrye General Hospital in Fort Frances, Ont.
Begamaanaakwad was born Aug. 17, 1946 in Fort Frances, and had lived his entire life on Couchiching First Nation and in Fort Frances.
He had worked as a truck driver and guide.
He enjoyed playing pool and cribbage with his friends. He was especially fond of nicknaming his loved ones and singing to his daughters and grandchildren—even if they were not around.
Begamaanaakwad was the Anishinaabe name Melvin received shortly before his passing, and he found a great deal of comfort in his culture and name.
Begamanaakwad is survived by his wife of 43 years, Irene Morrisseau of Couchiching; and daughters, Dawn Morrisseau, Candace Morrisseau (James Leonard), Christine Morrisseau, and Erica Morrisseau.
Also surviving are his grandchildren, James Morrisseau (Sonya Mainville), Makayla Morrisseau, Cheyanna Morrisseau, Jeremy Jordan, Jared Jordan, Jessica Jordan, Trinity Morrisseau, Destiny Morrisseau, Jacy White, Iva-Jo Andy, Regeenah Andy, Chrissy Andy, Jamie “Hailey” Horton, and Tehya Horton; and three great-grandchildren, Nysaiah Morrisseau, Keiras Morrisseau, and Ciarra Morrisseau.
He also is survived by his brother, Rudolph Morrisseau Sr.; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, Alex (“Sonny”) and Marjorie Morrisseau (nee McPherson); grandparents, Alex and Christina Morrisseau; sister, Mabel Bruyere; brother-in-law, Vernon (“Smallie”) Bruyere; brother, Jim Banks; brother, Alton “Bunger” Morrisseau; and two nephews, Rudolph Morrisseau Jr. and Clayton Windego Jr.
A wake will be held Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2015 from 3 p.m. at the multi-use facility at Couchiching First Nation
A traditional burial ceremony will be held Wednesday, Aug. 5, 2015 at 10 a.m. at the multi-use facility. Elder Gilbert Smith will officiate, followed by interment in Our Lady of Lourdes Cemetery and a light lunch at the multi-use facility.
The pallbearers will be Jeremy Jordan, Jared Jordan, Armand Jourdain Jr., Vern Bruyere, Steve Mainville, and Derek Mainville.
The honourary pallbearers will be Robert Bruyere, Dennis Bruyere, Gilbert “Tons” Perreault, and Robert “Porky” Perreault.
In memoriam donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society c/o Green Funeral Home, P.O. Box 427, Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 3M8.
Online condolences may be offered at www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
