The family of Joseph Willie is very sad to announce his passing on Wednesday, May 20, 2015 at his residence in Mine Centre, Ont.
Joseph was born Nov. 1, 1944 in Mine Centre to the late Eckley and Mary Willie.
He had a deep love for his family, especially his nieces, nephews, and their children.
Joseph worked hard all his life, guiding, working at pulp-cutting, and trapping alongside his father and brothers. He also enjoyed hunting and fishing as a livelihood; enjoying the fresh-caught fish, wild meat, and wild rice-picking in the fall.
Joseph also was a residential school survivor.
He lived his traditional way of life as taught to him by his parents and grandparents. He had a sense of humour and enjoyed telling a funny joke to anyone who would listen.
Joseph is survived by sister, Jane Brown of International Falls, Mn.; brothers, Richard Willie and Gabriel Willie Sr. of Kenora, Ont., and Henry Willie of Fort Frances, Ont.; and sister, Narda Willie of Seine River First Nation, Ont.
He also is survived by special niece and nephew, Xavier and Rosalyn Willie; and other nieces, nephews, and many cousins.
Joseph was predeceased by his father, Eckley Willie in 1981; mother, Mary Willie in 1986; brothers, George Willie in 1991 and Howard Willie in 1991; and sisters, Christina Willie in 2006 and Frances Maclean in 1991.
A funeral wake was held Tuesday, May 26, 2015 from 3:30 p.m. at the Seine River First Nation gymnasium.
A traditional burial ceremony was held Wednesday May 27, 2015 in the morning at the Seine River First Nation gymnasium.
Elder Ralph Johnson officiated, followed by interment in the Seine River First Nation Cemetery.
The pallbearers were his family and friends.
The honourary pallbearers were Xavier Willie, Rosalyn Willie, Terry Hyatt, Paul Wayne Willie, Dennis Beere, Henry Willie, and Gabriel Willie Sr.
In memoriam donations may be made to the charity of your choice.
Online condolences may be offered at www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com
Fort Frances Times
Local News from Across the Rainy River District
