BEN NAWATCHEWAYKAPOW KABATAY

Ben Nawatchewaykapow Kabatay, 61, of Seine River First Nation, passed away Saturday, Nov. 30, 2002 at La Verendrye Hospital in Fort Frances, Ont.
Ben was born Nov. 18, 1941 in Seine River First Nation to Peter and Aggie Kabatay. He spent most of his life in the Seine River area.
He was a very active man who held many jobs over the years. He logged, trapped, worked as a mechanic, served in the United States Army, served on the Trappers’ Council, and was an agent for fur buyers with Treaty #3.
Ben enjoyed fishing, hunting, harvesting wild rice, and playing hockey and baseball. He also played the fiddle, guitar, and did a little singing.
Ben leaves behind his wife, Virginia Kabatay; son, Jason; stepchildren, Susan Johnson (Steve), Glen Johnson (Darlene), Gerald Johnson (Veronica), Anthony Johnson (Kelly), and Jeffrey Johnson (Candace); 23 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.
Also surviving are his sister, Agnes (Norman Peters); brother, Sam Kabatay; special nephew, Mike Kabatay; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.
He was predeceased by his parents, Peter and Aggie; sons, Clayton and Norman; sisters, Bertha, Emma, Edith, Mary, Elsie, Annie, and an infant; and brothers, George, Ed, Ray, and Tony.
A traditional service was held Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2002 at Ben’s residence in Seine River First Nation. Elder Jim Windigo officiated, with interment in Crilly Cemetery in Seine River First Nation.
Pallbearers were Peter Johnson, Walden Spencer, Bob Potson, John Kabatay Sr., Clarence Johnson, and Tom Johnson Jr.
Honourary pallbearers were Norman Peters, Jack Johnson, George Spencer, Albert Kabatay, Harry Kabatay, and Mike Kabatay.
If friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, 920 Frenette Ave., Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 3N4.