Agabewasak February 15, 1938 – July 4, 2026
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Victoria “Vicky” Gibbins, who peacefully passed away on July 4, 2026, at the Fort Frances Hospital at the age of 88.
Victoria was born on February 15, 1938, in Big Grassy First Nation, where she began a life rooted in family, hard work, love, and the traditions of her community. She spent most of her life in the Lake of the Woods area, a place she cherished and proudly called home.
She was predeceased by her beloved partner Lawrence Gibbins; her parents Alice Jane Redsky and Walter Redsky; her sisters Alice Kejick (Pat) and Marie Mandamin (Eric); her cherished son John Gibbins; and her beloved grandsons Jeffrey Kirkrude and Ethan Major.
Victoria leaves behind a family who will forever treasure her memory: her sister Teri Fiddler; her brother Joe Andy; and her loving children Clarence (Lorraine), Virginia (Pat), Laura (Fern), Cheryl, Larry and daughter-in-law Darlene; Jocelyn, whom she raised since she was a little girl; her beloved great-grandson Xavior, whom she lovingly spoke about often, sharing how fast he was on the hockey ice and how he reminded her of Larry as a little boy; Marcie (Jake), Lil’ Joe, Jocelyn (Dan), Touchan (Catherine) , and Betty Jean (Dennis); her personal support worker Laurie Taylor; her dialysis nurse Jessica; she also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many dear friends whose lives were enriched by her kindness, strength, and unconditional love.
Vicky was a hardworking woman who spent many years working in various fishing and tourist camps throughout the Lake of the Woods area. She believed in earning an honest living and worked as long as her health allowed. Her resilience, determination, and unwavering work ethic were qualities admired by everyone who knew her.
Above all else, Victoria was devoted to her family. Nothing brought her greater happiness than being surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She was immensely proud of each of her children – Clarence, John, Larry, Virginia, Laura, and Cheryl – and celebrated every milestone and accomplishment in their lives.
She had a remarkable gift for creating with her hands.
Knitting, crocheting, sewing, and making beautiful handmade rugs were among her favourite pastimes. Every Christmas, she lovingly knitted toques and mittens for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, ensuring each gift was made with warmth, care, and love. Those handmade treasures will forever remind her family of the love she wrapped into every stitch. She loved Wrestle Mania and especially loved Bingo with her Bingo buddies Dayna Lapansee, Josephine Wood and Virginia Archie.
One of Vicky’s greatest joys was the special bond she shared with her sister, Teri. She treasured their everyday phone calls, where they laughed, shared stories, checked in on one another, and remained a constant source of love and support. Every visit they were able to spend together was precious to her, creating memories she held close to her heart.
Victoria also treasured time spent with her family at gatherings on the lake and in the parks. She delighted in cheering on her children and grandchildren at local fishing derbies and tournaments, always offering encouragement and celebrating their successes. Whether sharing stories, enjoying time on the water when she could, or simply being surrounded by those she loved, those moments brought her the greatest joy.
Vicky lived a long, beautiful, and meaningful life filled with compassion, generosity, resilience, and unconditional love. She taught her family the importance of kindness, hard work, and staying close to one another. Her gentle spirit, warm smile, caring heart, and unwavering devotion to her family will never be forgotten.
Though our hearts are broken by her passing, we find comfort in knowing she has been reunited with those who went before her. Her love lives on through the generations she nurtured, and her memory will continue to guide and inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and staff at Fort Frances Hospital, her dialysis team and the crew at Rainycrest for the compassionate care they provided to Victoria during her final days.
Our greatest comfort is knowing that the love she gave so freely will live on in every mitten she knitted, every memory we share, and every heart she touched. Until we meet again, Mom, Grandma, Great-Grandma, Sister, and Auntie – you will forever be our guiding light.
Forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten.
The Wake will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, beginning at 4:00 p.m. at the Big Grassy Hall.
The Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Big Grassy Hall, with Jazz Comegan officiating.
Pallbearers will be Jeff Morrison Sr., Cedar Fiddler, Jules Gibbins, Albert George, Touchan Fiddler, Scott Major
Honorary Pallbearers: Larry, Clarence, Fern, Pat Sr., Jarvis
Arrangements entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd., Emo, Ontario.
