GEORGE GERALD ‘DEMPSEY’ CALDER Gi’wiitinong Miigwan (Northern Feather)

With heavy hearts, the family of George Gerald “Dempsey” Calder announces his peaceful passing, with family by his side.
Dempsey was born on Nov. 12, 1938, in Fort Frances, Ont. and resided on Couchiching First Nation with his loving family.
He leaves behind his wife of 49 years, Barbara Ann “Perrault” Calder; daughters, Colleen, Sharon, Tina, and Ux; son, Terry (Donna); and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He also will be missed by his long-time chums, Steve, Bernard, Willie, and Paddy, and his loyal pet dog, “Sophie”; siblings, Georgina and Doug (Dixie); in-laws, Gilbert (Colleen), Robert (Cathy), Diane, and Marilyn; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his beloved son, Derek; parents, George and Mabel; sisters, Vivian (Pud), Lillian (Lums) (Smokey Bruyere), Gloria, and Norma; brother, Norman and brothers-in-law, Brian Connor, Valentine Perrault, and Vernon (Chick) Perrault; and sisters-in-law, Patricia Grover, Ramona Lewis, and Elaine Jourdain.
Dempsey was well-known and a friend to many. He had numerous occupations over the years. Dempsey worked for a contractor constructing many local bridges.
He was considered an “avid bushman” as a skilled heavy equipment operator, a mechanic, and a logger. He took pride in helping those wanting mentoring in any of the great skills he held.
Dempsey also worked at O&M Paper and Boise Cascade.
He took great pleasure in fishing, setting nets, and driving trucks. His greatest love was teaching his grandsons everything he knew. Dempsey cherished every minute he had with the two joys of his life, Brody and Connor.
Dempsey’s wishes were respected, with cremation taking place.
A memorial service was held Monday, June 12, 2017 at 10 a.m. at the multi-use facility on Couchiching First Nation.
Visitation was held Sunday, June 11, 2017 from 1-3 p.m. at Green Funeral Home in Fort Frances.
The honourary pallbearers were Steve Mainville, Bernard Boily, Pat Roach, and Willie Yerxa.
Online condolences may be offered at www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com