Monika Black Wolf Woman Chaylene McKay

On June 18, 2015 our beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece and cousin Monika McKay (Black Wolf Woman) began her journey home to be with our Creator at the age of 23 years. Monika was born March 18, 1992 in Edmonton, AB. Monika was predeceased by her maternal great grandparents Gordon and Georgina Kequahtooway, her paternal great grandparents James and Agnes McKay, grandfather Marshall McKay, her father John Boucher, her brothers Dayleese Peigan and Ashton Gambler and an auntie Dana McKay. Monika leaves to mourn her mother Ruth-Anne McKay, stepfather Kelly Gambler; sisters Tashina and Chereese McKay and Aretha Gambler; Mommy Phyllis McKay; Kokums Alice Sangwais, Ina George, Ella Boucher (Edmonton), Brenda Smoker and Sandra George; Moshum Art McKay (Stella); uncles Eric (Bonnie), Donavon Kequahtooway, Avison (Charly) and Tabin (Brandy) McKay; aunties Tina (Cory) Perkins, Tanya Kequahtooway and Cherilynn Boucher (Edmonton); cousins she was raised with, Landon and Ryan McKay; Blaze Genaille and Patricia Pelletier; nephew Alex Bear; adopted family, the Littletents, also Sioux family and many cousins too numerous to mention.

Monika was raised by her grandmother Phyllis who was always called “mommy”. Monika was raised in Edmonton, Alberta and Yorkton and her adult life in Regina. Monika lived life to the fullest, she expressed her love to her sisters, nephews and mommy Phyllis every day and her entire family. Her greetings were also warm with hugs, kisses and “I Love You”. She had the greatest smile and laughter. She had the courage and strength to conquer and overcome the various obstacles she faced Monika lit up any room she walked into, holding no grudges, forgiving and putting others before herself. She had a unique sense of humour; outgoing and strong willed. Her passions included traditional events such as pow-wows, round dances and Sundance’s. Monika loved attending the pow-wow trail; was a great inspiration for her sister Chereese, encouraging her to dance and was very proud of her little sister. Monika accepted her illness (cancer) when doctors told her she only had a certain time of life to live. Monika also helped in raising her auntie Dana’s children after she passed away and was an awesome house cleaner. Monika also respected the Christian way of life and accepted the Lord. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

A traditional wake will be held in the Sakimay Complex, Sakimay First Nation on Monday June 22, 2015 commencing at 4:00 p.m. A traditional Feast (11:00 a.m) and Funeral Service (2:00 p.m.) will be held in the Sakimay Complex on Tuesday, June 23, 2015 with Frank Keshane and community Elders officiating. Interment will follow in the Sakimay United Cemetery.