The family of Robert Luke Archie regrettably announce his passing on January 3, 2026, at the Rainy River Hospital with his daughter by his side.
Robert was born in Assabassca, now known as Mishkosiminiiibiing First Nation, Ontario, on November 5, 1938, to Robert John and Pauline (nee Bluebird) Archie.
Left to cherish his memory are his daughters Barbara Wilson, Beverly Zapata (Joe), and Ronald Archie (Florene); he also leaves behind his grandchildren Robin Archie and Albert Jr Wilson, Jeff Morrison, Trina Archie and Kayleen, Paloma, Carlos and Star Zapata, Roman, Brandy and Ronald Stillday, Ronald Bruyere, Skye and August Archie, Tamara and Ruby Greene, Richie, Ethan, and Ariel Archie, Fredrick Jr Archie, Dailen and Robert John Tuesday; also surviving are his sister Bridget Archie (Carl) and his long-time friends Lenard Rencher and Gerry Fisk; along with his numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his wife Rosemary Copenace; his sons Fredrick and Robert John Archie; grandchildren Percy Jr Zapata and Rhoda Archie; sisters Anne Marie Archie, Geraldine Archie, Jean Archie and brother Samuel Archie; his special niece Jenni Archie with whom he had many casino adventures.
Robert was a residential school survivor and despite the challenges that presented was a great brother, uncle, grandpa, great-grandpa and great-great-grandpa. He took great pride in being able to work for his community. He was a social worker, on council over three terms and worked as the community medical driver. He was also a commercial fisherman and enjoyed hunting. Robert valued his traditional ways, but his heart was with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He had many friends in the church and loved his visits with the elders. He was going on 19 years of sobriety and was very proud of that. When he was able to, he loved going to casinos. If ever you were in need, Robert was always the first one to do what he could to help, not just family but anyone. He looked forward to the numerous family BBQs, as he loved being surrounded by his family. He loved to attend pow wows and took great pleasure in feeling the beating of the drum.
Robert had an exceptional relationship with his daughter Barb. They cared for each when other family members moved away, were always heard telling stories and laughing over the tales. Though Barb had her own disability and health issues she never let that get in the way of doing everything she could for her dad. His absence will be sorely felt in her daily life.
The family would like to give a special acknowledgement to Giishkaandago’Ikwe home care nurses, especially to Cindy Ottertail and Gerri Jones, along with the Gizhewaadiziwin Health Access Centre Indigenous support workers Christy Ottertail, Shawn Brown and Lori Geyshick for their care and kindness of Robert in his later years.
A wake will be held Friday, January 9, 2026, beginning at 4:00 p.m. at Mishkosiminiiibiing Community Hall (Big Grassy First Nation). Funeral service in the same location will be Saturday, January 10, at 10:00 a.m. with a luncheon to follow.
Pallbearers are Glenn Archie, Daryl Archie, Tim Archie, Elvis Adam, Carl Smith and Albert Jr Wilson.
Honorary Pallbearers are all of his grandchildren.
If friends so desire, in memoriam donations may be made to the Rainy River Long Term Care Facility.
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd., Emo, Ontario.
