John "Tidlo" Jones Jr.

Bizhiiw Doodem

It is with great sadness that the family of John “Tidlo” Jones Jr announce the sudden passing of a son, brother, uncle and friend.

Tidlo was born on January 4, 1958 in Fort Frances to Nancy & John Jones Sr. He was raised in the community of Nigigoonsiminikaaning First Nation, where he resided all his life. Tidlo had worked in carpentry and guiding most of his life. He had recently opened up the Community Store which he loved, running it out of his home.

John, affectionately known to everyone as “Tidlo”, was a very kind, gentle soul. He loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing were his passion. He was known as the community provider with meat, ducks and fish. He would spend hours fishing the “secret” spots with his very special nephew Jeff. Often times he would just paddle the mouth of Ottertail river, seeking deer, moose and ducks. He loved the nature and all of the beautiful surroundings. Tidlo was the type of man whom would do whatever he needed to do to help someone in need. He was the fire keeper of the community, he would light the scared fires for the community ceremonies, powwows, ensuring that they were kept going and maintained. This was his way of giving back to his community, showing his love he had for our cultural ways. He often would sit with people, and listen to their stories, never passing judgement, just an ear. Tidlo would often say “ put your tobacco down and pray” This was his way of healing.

Tidlo was a very humble, proud pipe carrier. He has found and given many eagle feathers to people whom needed the strength. He was a proud Anishanabe man, whom loved his cultural ways. His faith was strong and pure.

John is survived by his niidoodo (mother) Nancy Jones. Sisters Becky Kingbird (Lance), Sue Boshey (Stacey). Brother Don Jones (Pam), Dennis (Laura), Dan (Gail). He also leaves behind his special niece Tanya (Bob Calder) and nephews Jeff (Ashley), Colin Jones and Jason Jones, whom he had a special bond with. Tidlo leaves behind a very special “foster” daughter, Mercedes Perrault whom he had loved with all of his heart. She will always have a special place with John, she was his “Sadie”. As well as numerous nieces and nephews in which he all loved deeply.

He is predeceased by his father John Sr, sister Shirlee, brother Brian and his infant daughter Cheyenne Jones.

Funeral services were held at the Nigigoonsiminikaaning Gymnasium on Sunday August 18, 2013, with Elder Jim Windego officiating. Interment took place at the Nigigoonsiminikaaning burial grounds.

Active pallbearers were Harvey Allen, Terry Allan, Brad Windego, Dion Dick, Nolan Windego, Jim Windego Jr and Tom Johnson Jr.

Honorary pallbearers were Mercedes Perrault, Tannis Smith, Jennifer Spoon, Andrew Atwell, Troy & Andy Kingbird, Taylor, Alyssa and Kelsey Windego and all his nieces and nephews, which were all like his children.