Sadly, the family announces the sudden passing of Sheila Ann Kirkrude, 49, of Rainy River First Nations on Saturday, July 8, 2017.
Sheila was born on Dec. 11, 1967 in Rainy River, Ont. to Alvin Copenace and Florence Gibbins.
She spent her early work life as a Junior Forest Ranger and enjoyed many years working at various resorts on Lake of the Woods. She loved to cook, bead regalia, participate in pow-wows and jingle dress dancing.
She also loved spending time with family and her many friends. She had a bubbly and attractive personality, and her smile and laugh are unforgettable. She proudly lived her traditional ways.
Sheila will be greatly missed by her partner, Blake Kesick; her children, Nathen DeBungee (Martina Mamakwa), Charles DeBungee (Melissa Anderson), Sheena DeBungee, and adopted son, Alphonse Nolan (Angela); stepson, Coleton Kesick; and grandchildren, Lynkston, Jace, and Kyson.
She also is survived by her parents, Alvin Copenace and Florence Gibbins; siblings, Linda Baraga (James), Mary Gibbins, Dean Gibbins (Traci Landon), George Brown, Jim (Jeanette) Copenace, Denise Copenace, and Clayton Copenace; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.
Sheila was predeceased by her father Alexander Gibbins; and brothers, Dwayne Copenace, Frederick Kirkrude, and John Gibbins.
A traditional wake was held Tuesday, July 11, 2017 from 4 p.m. at the Big Grassy First Nation Community Hall, followed by a traditional service on Wednesday July 12, 2017 at 10 a.m., with Elder Harry Windego officiating.
Interment will take place in the Big Grassy First Nation Cemetery.
The pallbearers will be Coleton Kesick, Chris Jack, John Copenace, James Baraga, William Brandon, and Wesley DeBungee.
The honourary pallbearers will be Rhonda Big George, Debbie Brown, Roberta Bird, Cheryl Morrison, and Curtis Copenace.
If desired, in memoriam donations may be made to the charity of your choice c/o Northridge Funeral Home, P.O. Box 89, Emo, Ont., P0W 1E0.
SHEILA ANN KIRKRUDE (Miskwaanakwad Binesii-Ikwe)
