Josephine Andy

Josephine Andy, 67, of Fort Frances, Ont., formerly of Big Grassy First Nation, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at La Verendrye General Hospital in Fort Frances on Wednesday, Sept. 6, 2006.
Josephine was born Aug. 6, 1939 in Rainy River, Ont. to Joseph and Bessie Andy. She had lived in Big Grassy First Nation all her life until moving to Rainycrest Home for the Aged in Fort Frances for health reasons.
She enjoyed playing Bingo and sewing. At an early age, she learned to cook and had a large reportage of favourite dishes that she loved to prepare for family and friends.
She also raised her own children, as well as 30 foster children. She was very active in treaty rights for the First Nations and was recognized as a Treaty #3 role model for traditional way of life.
She leaves behind her children, Shirley Andy (Bryan Mancheese) of Fort Frances and their children, Netaya, Christian, Susan, and Louise, Tracy Andy (William Sky) of Eagle Lake First Nation and children, Andrew and Jordan, and Stephanie Andy and son, Brendan, of Big Grassy First Nation; sister, Christine Andy; brothers, Edward (Linda) Andy and Joseph Andy; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and other relatives.
Josephine was predeceased by her father, Joseph Sr. and mother, Bessie; husband, Thomas Tom; infant daughters, Susan and Louise; and brother, James Andy.
A wake was held Saturday, Sept. 9, 2006 from 3:30 p.m. at the Big Grassy First Nation gymnasium.
A traditional funeral was held Sunday, Sept. 10, 2006, with Elder Harry Windigo officiating. Interment followed in the Big Grassy First Nation cemetery.
The pallbearers were Bryan Mancheese, William Sky, Christopher Andy, John Paypompee, Jeff Morrison, Albert Wilson, and Bob Andy.
If friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to the Riverside Health Care Facilities Inc.’s Dialysis Unit, c/o 110 Victoria Ave., Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 2B7 or c/o Rainy River Funeral Home, P.O. Box 427, Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 3M8.