Justin "Kimowan Piyesis- Little Thunderbird" Lawrence Gopher

Justin Lawrence Gopher (Kimowan Piyesis – Little Thunderbird), life-long member of Saulteaux First Nation, died unexpectedly with his girlfriend Reanne Whitecap on December 5, 2022, at the age of 34, while they were driving home from Fort Saskatchewan where he was working as a pipeliner.

Justin is survived by his parents (Noel and Audrey); his son Liam and his stepson Blaze; his sisters (Larissa Gopher, Brooke Gopher, Feran Poafpybitty); special mention to his special cousin Desi Gopher (his wife Lonnie) who he grew up with as they were very close; as well as Aunts, uncles and cousins too numerous mention.

Justin was a devoted father, an excellent carpenter, an avid hockey player, baseball, golfer, and pro rodeo rider. He loved sports and enjoyed visiting with friends and relatives. He brought positive energy, joy and laughter no matter where he was. He would share stories of work and play with his mom and dad. Growing up, his father, taught him how to fix many things including vehicles, snowmobiles and ATVs. He was a quick learner and often scolded his father for not organizing his tools so they were easy to find. On January 27, 2010, he welcomed his son - Liam, who the most important part of his life. He often remarked that this was the greatest accomplishment of his life.

From time to time, his mother was able to “chill him up” when he needed minor behavior correction. Justin had the utmost love and respect for her. His mother had a special place in his heart.

Cousin Desi said he was far from being a cowboy but was not afraid to ride. In truth, he did come from a long line of cowboys, his paternal grandfather Lawrence Myo was the first Aboriginal cowboy to go professional, so winning a trophy at Battleford’s Kinsmen Indoor Pro Rodeo was no accident when he was 6 years old. His dad entered him in the “Mutton Busting” category and instructed him to hold on as tight as he can. Sure enough, he won #1 Sheep Rider and a trophy.

At a different rodeo at Saulteaux First Nation, Justin entered another riding competition and when his mom ran to pick him up after he fell off, with dirt on his face, holding back his tears he says: “Cowboys don’t cry right, mom?”

He approached life with no fear and demonstrated bravery in everything he did. He will be sadly missed by all and express our love and prayers for him. The family will continue to foster the brotherly relationship between the Liam and Blaze.

A wake for Kimowan Piyesis- Little Thunderbird will be held Wednesday, December 7, 2022 at Saulteaux Band Hall, Saulteaux, Saskatchewan. A funeral service will occur Friday, December 9, 2022 at 11:00 AM at Saulteaux Band Hall.

Kimowan Piyesis- Little Thunderbird will be laid to rest in Saulteaux Cemetery, Saulteaux First Nation, Saskatchewan.

Serving as pallbearers are Shane Gopher, Andrew Moccasin, Lane Gopher, Lorenz Stanley, Cory Albert and Mervin Night.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.SallowsandMcDonaldFuneralHome.com for the Gopher family.