Chief Angela Marie Neveau

It is with both profound sadness and immense gratitude for a life so deeply loved and cherished that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved family matriarch, Angela Marie Neveau (nee Lewis), at the age of 90. Angela passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at Extendicare Van Daele Manor in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

Angela, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, will be deeply missed and forever cherished. Held close in the hearts of those who loved her, Angela’s memory will live on through her children, late Rachel Lewis, Keith Neveau (Jackie), late Josie Paquin, Cynthia Neveau, late Pierre Neveau, Carol Neveau (John), Bonna Dalton (Scott), and Shane Neveau (Brandi).

Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who carry on her legacy and are guided by her light, include Kimi Wesselius (John), and their children, Liam and Jack; Nathan Neveau (Jessica), and their children, Olivia, Addison, Isaac; Claude Paquin (Lee), and their children, Kanessa, Michela, and Ethan; Michel Paquin, and his children, Maximo, Wyatt, and Myka; Beau Neveau (Julia), and their children, Kara, Beau, Tyler, Cohen, and Chloe; Angela Neveau (Mitchel), and their children, Sage, Avery, and Jonah; Lacey Dalton, and her children, Dalton and Kacey; R.J. Dalton (Heather), and their children, Karyna and Kamira; Kendra Neveau (Dustin); and Michael Neveau (Madison).

Angela was also a beloved sister, aunt, friend, and a valued member of the many communities she was fortunate to be a part of.

Angela was born to Melva Lewis and the late Charlie McKay on July 3, 1936. She is survived and missed by siblings Jimmy Lewis, Mariam Agawa, Marcia Lewis, and was predeceased by Rose Begin, Michael Tessler, Victor Lewis, Jackie Lewis, Julianna Lewis, Nelson McKay, Sandra Gingras. In her early years, Angela was lovingly raised by her grandmother Julia Jordan, and Bonna and Jack Styer (foster parents). In 1958, Angela married Michael G. Neveau, and together they built a life centered around family, love, and cherished memories.

Angela’s zest for life and insatiable curiosity were woven into everything she did. Music was never far from her heart—she loved country music, especially the lively sounds of guitars and fiddles, and she could often be found dancing, with a particular love for clogging and tap. Her beautiful soprano voice was another gift she shared freely, filling the room with songs and hymns in both English and Ojibwe. She found joy in the simple pleasures of life: fishing, cooking, spending time with her beloved dogs Lady, Tootsie, and Binoo, and giving generously of her time through volunteer work. And few things brought her greater joy than watching her grandchildren take to the ice and play hockey.

As someone who believed that the pursuit of knowledge was key to a fulfilling life, Angela embarked on a learning journey that extended beyond the family she adored. She began teaching the Ojibwe language to elementary grades in Sault Ste. Marie schools. At 60 years young, in 1996, while caring for her husband through his battle with cancer, she graduated from the Native Language Instructors Course, through Sault College and Lakehead University, becoming fully certified in teaching. She went on to fulfill another dream, becoming the first elected female Chief of Batchewana First Nation, where she served her community for two years. Amongst many accomplishments, Angela notably contributed through translation to the Ojibwe plaques at the Roberta Bondar Pavillion along the St. Mary’s River for the city of Sault Ste. Marie and at Whitefish Island.

To so many, Angela was dearly known as “Sweet Marie” or “Aunty Sweet,” and she valued each and every relationship and friendship she made along her path. Her family tree extended immeasurably, reaching far beyond its closest branches. She leaves behind a lifetime of timeless wisdom, rich stories, and shared laughter that will continue to live on through the generations.

Her strength, wisdom, and unwavering love for her family were at the heart of who she was. Though her passing brings great sadness, her life leaves much to celebrate—a life filled with family, community, learning, laughter, and love. Angela will be remembered for the love she gave so freely, the lessons she shared, and the many ways she touched the lives of others. Her memory will remain close in the hearts of her family, friends, and community, and her legacy will continue through the generations that follow.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Extendicare Van Daele Manor for the exceptional care, compassion, and kindness shown to Angela throughout her time in their care. Your dedication and support brought comfort to Angela and her family and will always be deeply appreciated. Additionally, the Victoria Order of Nurses Algoma (Day Program) is also thanked for their goodwill and generosity.

Family and friends are invited to visit at the Arthur Funeral Home – Barton & Kiteley Chapel (492 Wellington St. E. 705-759-2522) on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 from 10:30 am until 1:30 pm. Funeral service to follow at 2:00 pm with Father Jeff Shannon officiating. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions payable by cheque or online to the Alzheimer Society would be appreciated by the family. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be offered at www.arthurfuneralhome.com for the Neveau family.