It is with great sadness that the family of Janet Bruyere announces her passing on Friday, Oct. 26, 2018 at La Verendrye Hospital in Fort Frances, Ont.
Janet was born on June 12, 1942 in the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation to Mary and Stewart Jack.
She worked as an Ojibway teacher with the Catholic school for more than 25 years, and was very proud of her traditional and cultural roots. She worked very hard to pass those traditions down to her children and grandchildren.
She was very family-oriented, and she never hesitated to step in and become a mentor and friend to any who needed her. She loved to spend time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She leaves behind her children, Virginia Big George (Jimmie), Harold Big George (Louella), Verna McDonald, John Big George (Debbie), and Norman Bruyere (Elda); numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; traditional sister, Kathie Jack; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Janet was predeceased by her parents, Mary and Stewart; husbands, Joe Big George and Norman Bruyere Sr.; sons, Tom Big George, William (Billy) Big George, Clarence Big George, and Daniel Big George; grandson, Nathan McDonald; and siblings, Harold Jack, Howard Jack, Ida Jourdain, Olive Jack, and Ronald Jack.
A traditional wake was held on Monday, Oct. 29, 2018 at 3 p.m. at the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation gymnasium.
A traditional service followed on the morning of Tuesday, Oct. 30, 2018, with Elder Henry Lawrence officiating.
The pallbearers were Norman Bruyere, John Big George, Harold Big George, Joey McDonald, Kane Hawk, and Adrian Indian.
The honourary pallbearers were Corrine Sylvester, Jacques Sylvester, Curtis Attatise, and her family and friends.
Interment will take place in the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation Cemetery.
If friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association, Canadian Cancer Society, or Parkinsons Canada c/o Green Funeral Home, P.O. Box 427, Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 3M8.
Online condolences may be offered at www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com
JANET BRUYERE (Ombiigaabawik) (Elk Clan)
