Lillian Jessie Boshkaykin

Baashkinegaabowik gaye’gi’ina

Wazhashkon ogii’ooteminan.

It is with great sadness that the family of Lillian Jessie Boshkaykin announces her passing on Saturday, October 16, 2021 at the LaVerendrye General Hospital.

Lillian was born on May 21, 1936 in Crane Lake, Ontario to Earl and Richilda Menson. The family lived in the Seine River First Nation and surrounding area, moving frequently with her family and lived a subsistent lifestyle. Lillian grew up in a traditional home and possessed indigenous knowledge that was passed on from generation to generation. She was a speaker of an ancient dialect of Ojibwemowin, was a talented moccasin maker, made birch bark crafts, enjoyed sewing and had an intricate knowledge of ancient legends and teachings. She willingly shared her knowledge and teachings with others in a kind and giving way. She had an amazing sense of humor and always enjoyed a good laugh. The indigenous knowledge she shared with others are life sustaining and was steadfast in following traditional protocols. She shared her wisdom and provided strength with everyone she met. She worked as a custodian at the Seine River Day School for many years. She enjoyed bingo, country music (especially singing) and was always open to trying new things.

She will be greatly by missed her children; Ted Menson (Karen), Carol Menson (Edward), Ruby Boshkaykin, and step children; Cecilia Henderson (Allan), Josephine Potson (Gerry), Hilda Boy, Florence Boshkaykin (Ed), special daughter, Elaine McGillis (Skeeter), Grandchildren; Kelly Rae (Dusty), Jasmine, Elijah, Elizabeth, Elita, special granddaughter Paaminokamigook (Glenda Henderson)and great grandchildren; Noah, Varissa, Jessica, Lucas, numerous step grandchildren, her beloved sister, Florence Menson, nieces; Natalie, Pauline, Anita, Inez, Gwen, Laura, Marilyn, Darlene, Diane, Leona and nephews; Vernon, Gerald, Donald, William and a huge extended family and a wide circle of friends.

Lillian was predeceased by her parents; husband Jim Boshkaykin; grandson Corey and siblings James, Bill, Clifford and several infant brothers and sisters.

A traditional wake will be held on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 from 4 p.m. at the Seine River First Nation Gymnasium.

A traditional funeral ceremony will be held on the morning of Thursday, October 21, 2021 at the Seine River First Nation Gymnasium.

The pallbearers John Kabatay, Steve Spencer, Gerald Morrison, Chris Spencer, Jeremy Potson, Vernon Menson, Jeff Boshkaykin, Gerald Johnson, Walden Spencer, Aiden Kabatay, Dustin Gibbins, Howard Whitecrow and Stacy Kabatay.

The honorary pallbearers will be Josephine Potson, Rosie Boshkaykin, Marie Allen, Edward John Kabatay, Chris Kabatay, Sonny Kabatay, Carrie Boshkaykin, Cheryl Riley and Kelly Riley.