Michael Alfred Berens

January 26, 1956 – February 23, 2026

With heavy hearts and sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved Michael Alfred Berens Sr., a devoted son, father, brother, grandfather, cousin, uncle, father-in-law and friend. He passed away at Lake of the Woods District Hospital on February 23, 2026 at 11:11pm at the age of 70, surrounded by the love of his daughter Richelle and granddaughter Siarra, after a courageous fight against cancer.

Michael was predeceased by his daughter ‘baby girl’ Chantel Petawanaqueb, his mother Andrena (Angelina) Berens, his father Jones Everett, his brother Rene Berens, his sisters Claudette Berens, Emily (Meme) Berens, Rosa (Baby) Everett, Rose Everett, his nephews Ernest Berens Jr., Elijah Sayer, Wayland Lavesseur and Keesley Everett, his niece Eliza Berens. He is also predeceased by his brother in laws George Favel, Lloyd Genaille and lifelong friend William (Bill) Levasseur.

He is lovingly remembered by his sons Vincent Petawanaqueb, Michael Berens Jr., daughter Richelle Petawanaqueb (Joey), the love of his life and best friend of 44 years Darlene Petawanaqueb.

He will also be greatly missed by his brothers, Ernest Berens, Wayne Berens (Brenda), Walter (Elaine), Edwin Everett (Leona), his sisters Darlene Whiteway, Marlene Genaille, Tammy Berens, Darlene McKay (Jimmy), Carla Merasty (George), sister-in-law

Shirley Petawanaqueb (Daniel Fisher). His grandchildren Siarra, Hailey, Nathan, Jersey, Bella, Emma, Vincent, Mathias, Darius, Michael the 3rd, Chance, Joey Jr., Freedom, Chantel, Penelope, Drayden, Ethan, Eric, Daven, Faith, Florence, Hope and Elijah. As well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and dear friends too numerous to mention.

Michael also known as Keemooch, was born in Berens River, MB in 1956, He relocated to Winnipeg with his family in 1971. In his teenage years, he often went fishing with his cousin Robert Ross. He then went on to work on the railroad, where he met his lifelong friend George Favel. Michael met Darlene in 1981, they didn’t start dating until 1985, together they had four children.

In his early 20’s Michael transitioned to foundation work with George at Ablon, where he spent 40 years. Michael was a man of unshakable values, believing that hard work was the secret to a long fulfilling life, he never wanted to be held back by his age. He was the true embodiment of a hardworking man.

Michael’s (Mike) deep love of his family, including his children, grandchildren, and son-in-law, was evident, and he cherished every moment they spent together. His connection with his first-born granddaughter, RaRa, was particularly meaningful. Additionally, he shared a strong bond with his grandson Ethan, with whom he was inseparable for eight years, you can tell once Michael the 3rd was born that he held a special place in his heart.

Michael enjoyed going to Bingo or staying home playing card games, like 13, 10’s, crib, donkey (in his young years), as well as Yahtzee, he also enjoyed playing slots with a nice cold beverage. Michael was also a keen sports enthusiast, enjoying football, hockey, baseball and tennis and when he was younger, he played baseball too.

The family would like to thank Berens River Chief and Council, Washagamis Bay Chief and Council, Lake of the Woods District Hospital, Cancer Care, WNHAC, Cropo Funeral Home and Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre.

Pallbearers will be Vincent Petawanaqueb, Michael Berens, Joey Everett, Mark Montour, Justin Berens and Fabian Berens. Honorary pallbearers are Sam Berens (Sucker Sam), Crystal (Tony), Wendy, Mandy, Shawn, Shaye, Tori, Jessie, Mason, Maisie, William Kimberely and Jason.

A Wake Service will be held at the Washagamis Bay Band Office in Washagamis Bay, Ontario, on March 1, 2026, beginning at 1:00 pm. Visitation will be held at Cropo Funeral Chapel in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on March 2, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm. A Funeral Service will be held at Cropo Funeral Chapel in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on March 3, 2026, beginning at 10:00 am. with Pastor Ray Cornish officiating with interment to follow at Brookside Cemetery in Winnipeg, Manitoba. A luncheon will follow at Cropo Funeral Chapel.

He will always be remembered by His famous phrase " IM THE GOOD"