Mary Copenace

Pizhew Ondootem

August 10, 1928 – October 19, 2017

It is with heavy hearts and overwhelming sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, and great grandmother Mary Copenace (Koko) at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital in Kenora, Ontario.

Mary was born August 10, 1928 in Noatkamegwanning First Nation to Peter and Maggie White (nee Linklater). She is survived by her children Leslie (Helen), Dorothy (George), Lisa (Trevor), Howard (Sheila), Brian (Donna), Eldon (Pat), Teddy (Darlene), Galen, son in law Jake, sisters in law Margaret, Louise, Josephine, Linda, and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Welcoming Mary home is her beloved husband Alex, daughter Rose Skead, grandchildren Howie Jr and Veronica Marie, and other immediate family of the Pizhew (Lynx) Clan. Mary was the last surviving member of the 8 children of Peter and Maggie White (nee Linklater).

Mary’s Greatest accomplishments in life was being a stay at home mother and wife, raising her 9 children to whom she instilled traditional parenting methods in which were passed down to her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Mary was a traditional Jingle Dress Dancer, and held many old teachings of the Jingle dress. One of her many joys was the time she took in the sewing and beading of the pow wow regalia’s she did for her children and grandchildren, it is just one of the ways she shared her teachings and knowledge. Throughout her years she enjoyed sharing stories of her childhood memories in Naotkamegwanning as well as the time she shared with our late father, grandfather and great grandfather Alex-Tat.

The Copenace Family would like to say Miigwetch to Lake of the Woods District Hospital, Birchwood Terrace, Naotkamegwanning First Nation, Kenora Chiefs Advisory, Bimose Tribal Council, Naotkamegwanning Education Authority, Naotkamegwanning Health Services, all the friends, families who extended their condolences and kind words, and a very special Miigwetch to Eva Sagachikabo, Mary’s roommate during her time at Birchwood Terrace.

Traditional Services will be held at the Naotkamegwanning Health Services building with the wake beginning Monday October 23rd and traditional funeral Tuesday October 24th, 2017 at 10:00 am. officiated by elder Dennis Black of Niacatchewenin.

Online condolences may be made at www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com

BROWN FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION CENTRE ENTRUSTED WITH ARRANGEMENTS.