Dorothy Indian

October 6, 1951 – November 7, 2025

Surrounded by her loved ones, Elder Dorothy Indian (May may squaw gaa bee yoke, Namay - Doodem) (nee Morrison) began her spirit journey on Friday, November 7, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Care Group in Thunder Bay, Ontario.

Dorothy is lovingly remembered and deeply missed by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, brothers, nieces, nephews, friends, and the many others whose lives she touched.

Dorothy and her late husband, Stan Indian, were devoted partners in life and spirit. Together, they raised three beloved children — Jason (Claudie), Barry (Brenda), and Shannon (Ian) — as well as several children they lovingly “adopted” along the way, including Bonnie Johnston, Percy Legarde, and Alwyn Cowley. Over the years, many more children found a safe and caring home under Dorothy and Stan’s roof.

Dorothy leaves behind her brothers Fred (Gail) and Jerry (Kelly); grandchildren Justin (Ellie), Jeffrey (Amy), Cody (Melina), Jacie, Karson, Maria, and Autumn; and great-grandchildren Kinlen, Chobi (Dalton), Raena, Nessa, Alina, Isaak, Maanoo (Jayce), Lilia, Violet, and River.

Together, Dorothy and Stan were a powerful force, sharing their gifts through ceremony and healing throughout the Treaty #3 area. Dorothy was the matriarch of her family — generous, strong, and full of love. She dedicated her life to caring for others, sharing her spiritual gifts, and passing on Anishinaabe knowledge, language, and culture. Her teachings and guidance helped countless people along their healing journeys.

A true believer in the philosophy of Bimaadiziwin — “living the good life” — Dorothy carried these teachings with grace, humility, and strength throughout her life.

The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the staff at St. Joseph’s Care Group for their compassion and care during Dorothy’s final days, with a special Miigwech to Elton Beardy and the Cultural Practitioners from the Indigenous Health Team at St. Joseph’s. Your visits brought Dorothy comfort through culture and spiritual support, and your kindness extended warmly to the family members who were by her side.

Miigwech to all who supported Dorothy and her family with love, prayers, and kindness — including those who visited her in the hospital and during her time in Hospice. A heartfelt thank you to Justin Indian-Mandamin, Rebecca Fair, and Harriet Muckle, who visited regularly, offering care, comfort, and companionship through feeding, massage, and gentle support. Deep gratitude as well to Bonnie Johnston, who travelled from Toronto on two occasions in the last month and lovingly spent Dorothy’s final five days by her side in Hospice.

Dorothy’s spirit, wisdom, and teachings will continue to live on in all those she touched, helped, and inspired.

A Wake Service will be held at the Nestor Falls Community Centre in Nestor Falls, Ontario, on Friday, November 14, 2025, starting at 11:30 am. Funeral Service will take place at the Nestor Falls Community Centre on Saturday, November 15, 2025, beginning at 10:00 am with services officiated by Howard Copenace, cremation will follow.

Pallbearers: Jeffrey Indian, Justin Indian, Karson Holmstrom-Indian, Ian Redsky, Sheldon Morrison, Tim Skead and Donavan Skead.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, Kenora, ON.

Dorothy’s journey continues in the spirit world, but her love, teachings, and laughter will remain forever in the hearts of those she leaves behind.