Richard “Mink” Melvin Jourdain Sr., 61, of White Dog First Nation and formerly of Fort Frances, Ont., passed away Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2002 at White Dog First Nation.
He was born April 6, 1941 at Nicickousemenecaning First Nation.
Dad enjoyed life to the fullest, teaching his children the necessities of life from his vast knowledge of the outdoors and life in general. He loved spending time with his children, grandchildren, family, and many friends.
He is survived by his children, Dennis Mandamin (Donna) and their children, Joseph and Curtis; Roanna Jourdain and her children, Rocky, Joni, and Jazanne; Alyssa “Lisa” Jourdain and her children, Nicky and Jonathon; Richard Jourdain Jr. “Little Mink” (Carlene) and their children, Summer, Dylan, Caitlin, Megan, and Jayde; and Michelle (Jeffrey) and their children, Nathan and Khrystian.
Also surviving are brothers and sisters, Norman Allan Sr. (Patsy), Elroy Jourdain, Mary Bombay, Margaret Norris (Lynn), and Robert Jourdain (Lois Tanner); sister-in-law, Marie Allen; numerous nieces and nephews; and special friend, Lorna Cochrane.
He was predeceased by his parents, Paul and Mae Jourdain; and brothers and sisters, George Allen, Adolphe Jourdain, Baby Sister Kathleen Jourdain in 1943, and Alphonse Smith.
A traditional service will be held Saturday, Nov. 16, 2002 in the morning at the Nicickousemenecaning First Nation gymnasium. Elder Jim Windigo will officiate, followed by interment in the Nicickousemenecaning First Nation Cemetery.
A wake will be held Friday, Nov. 15, 2002 from 3:30 p.m. at Nicickousemenecaning First Nation gymnasium, with Deacon Elmer Mainville conducting a prayer service at 7 p.m.
Pallbearers will be Ron Allen, Terry Allan, Dean Jourdain, Laverne Bombay, Danny Norris, and Rocky Bunting.
Honourary pallbearers will be Joe Medicine, Tom Burns, Archie Potson, Marvin Paypompee, Norman Allan, and Damien Allan.
In memoriam donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario, 920 Frenette Ave., Fort Frances, Ont. P9A 3N4.