Ms. Julia Nicole Romanow-Bear

September 1, 1995-November 1, 2012.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our daughter, sister, grand-daughter, niece, aunt, cousin Julia (Sewinikan) on November 1, 2012 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Julia (Sewinikan) was 17 years old, a beautiful bright young woman who knew how to enjoy life to the fullest.

She was predeceased by her birth mother Lefa Buffalo-Bear, her maternal Mooshoom Sydney Buffalo, paternal grandparents Irene and Thomas Bear; and maternal aunt Bernice Keshane (nee Buffalo) and Uncle Jason. She will be lovingly remembered by her father, Stanley Bear (Carolina); her legally adopted mother, Jacqueline Romanow (Ernest); her brothers Aidan, Micheal/Mikisew, Ryan and Conrad (Misty); grandmothers Monica Buffalo and Isabel Bear; nieces and nephews; numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins from both Peguis First Nation (MB) and Daystar First Nation (SASK); special friend Brentin Watts; and numerous friends from Kelvin High School and the broader Winnipeg community.

Julia was born Sewinikan (Something Sweet) Buffalo-Bear on September 1, 1995 at the Victoria Hospital in Winnipeg. Later she was given her English names Julia Nicole which she carried until her passing.

Julia (Sewinikan) was a beautiful young woman in her final year of high school, and just beginning her plans to see more of the world she had already experienced. Her carefree loving and generous spirit touched the lives of all whom she came into contact with. Her families are comforted in knowing that she is now with her mother and all our other relatives who have gone before. The Creator has called her to be with him and our family members are there to celebrate her arrival in a place of peace and love.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of her life which will be held on November 6, 2012 at St. Ignatius Parish, 255 Stafford Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., with prayers starting at 1:30 p.m. followed by refreshments. Pallbearers include her brothers: Conrad, Ryan, Micheal/Mikisew, and Aidan; her father Stan; and Uncle Marvin. Cremation will follow and interment will take place later at Daystar First Nation, Saskatchewan where she will be laid to rest with her birth mother, Lefa Buffalo Bear.

The Julia Romanow-Bear (Sewinikan Buffalo-Bear) Scholarship is being established at the University of Winnipeg for registered students of Indigenous ancestry. Donations can be made to The University of Winnipeg Foundation, 901-491 Portage Avenue Winnipeg, MB., R3B 2E4.

The family would like to thank Julia’s close friends who came to be with our families; and to all the other family friends and acquaintances for their gifts of kindness, generosity, friendship, food and fellowship. Your time with us and the stories you have been sharing have brought comfort. May the Creator keep you all close to him and guide you in a good way.

At this time, the Bear and Buffalo families respectfully request privacy and thank you for your understanding.