NORMAN (AWANIIGAABO) ANDY

Norman (Awaniigaabo) Andy, 58, of Big Grassy River First Nation, Onta., passed away suddenly on Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2009.
He was born Feb. 1, 1951 in Rainy River, Ont. to the late John and Olga Andy.
Norman grew up and resided all of his life at Big Grassy River First Nation. In earlier years, he was united in marriage to Victoria Morrison, and together they raised their family.
Norman worked as a commercial fisherman and guided at the local camps for many years. He also served his community as a Treaty #3 police officer, and also as a band councillor.
Norman had a passion for driving, travelling with family, and enjoying time together at various places and the casinos. Even until recently, he drove the community medical van helping members of his community for many years.
Norman was a kind man with strong cultural beliefs, and he will be remembered by his family, whom he dearly loved, and by all of his friends.
He was predeceased by his wife, Victoria Andy; two daughters, Isabelle Archie and Serena Andy; two sisters, Christine Morrison and Louise Gibbins; and one brother, Dave Andy.
Norman is survived by his daughter, Tammy Morrison and Felix Desmarais of Sioux Narrows, Ont.; 11 grandchildren, Ryan Copenace, Michael Andy, Annabelle Shebagegit, Rolanda Shebagegit, Victoria Shebagegit, Vanessa Tom, Quinton Tom, Kelli Morrison, Summer Jim, Kayla Morrison, and Isaiah Morrison; and by many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A traditional burial service will be held Saturday, Dec. 19, 2009 at 10 a.m. at the Big Grassy River First Nation Community Hall. Elder Peter White will officiate, with burial in Big Grassy River First Nation Cemetery.
A wake will be held Friday evening, Dec. 18, 2009 at the Big Grassy River First Nation Hall.
The pallbearers will be Chris Andy, Jamie Archie, Elmer Chang, Tim Morrison, Randy Morrison, and Felix Desmarais.
The honourary pallbearers will be Gary Tuesday, Robert Morrison, Leonard Morrison, Alvin Copenace, Elliott Cobiness, and Tom Gibbins.
Should family and friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, 920 Frenette Ave., Fort Frances, Ont., P9A 3N4 or c/o Rainy River Funeral Home, P.O. Box 694, Rainy River, Ont., P0W 1L0.
Online condolences may be offered at www.greenfuneralhomefortfrances.com