Gwendolyn Beadle

August 16, 1957 - November 10, 2024

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Gwen Beadle, 67, of Couchiching First Nation, announces her passing on Sunday, November 10, 2024. Gwen fought a brave and graceful battle against cancer for 17 months, embodying strength and dignity throughout. She was a gentle, kind, and selfless person who always put others first.

Born on August 16, 1957, in Fort Frances, Gwen attended school locally before going on to serve as Executive Assistant to the Chief and Council of Couchiching First Nation for many years. On August 16, 1977, she married Ron Beadle, the love of her life, and in 1986, their family was joyfully completed with her chosen daughter Andrea. Gwen cherished family gatherings, time with friends, crocheting, playing pool, and being with Andrea.

Gwen is survived by her siblings Brian (Kathy), Lana (Ben), Barry (Emma), and Donavan, as well as her sister-in-law Carla and brother-in-law Norval. She was a beloved aunt to her nieces Shailynn, Becky, and Miranda, nephews Trevor, Donnie, Mike, and John, and many other extended family members. Gwen was predeceased by her husband Ron, mother Dorothy, sister-in-law Glenda, and brothers-in-law Donnie and Ralph.

A celebration of Gwen’s life will be held on Friday, November 15, 2024, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Couchiching First Nation Multi-Use Facility. In lieu of flowers, donations in Gwen’s memory can be made to Best for Kitty or Paws.

Brian Leon Indian (Makade Makwa)

March 26, 1967 - November 6, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Brian Leon Indian (Makade Makwa, Awaasii Dodemi), who began his spirit journey on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. Brian was the beloved son of the late John and Bella Indian, and a cherished brother to Lorraine McCready (Steve), Lois Indian, Sandra Indian, Ernest Indian, Leona Indian, and Joanne Indian. He was predeceased by his brother, Edmund Indian. Brian was also a loving uncle to many nieces and nephews and a special friend to Vanessa Tom, Tammy Morrison, and Kayla Morrison.

Brian was a devoted and respected member of the Ojibways of Onigaming community, dedicating decades to providing clean drinking water. A certified Water Treatment Plant Operator, he served his community tirelessly for nineteen years, working through various medical challenges up until his passing. His dedication was recognized with the 2022 National First Nations Water Leadership award from the Federal Government and the 2022 A.W.W.A.O. Paul Strohach Memorial award for Northern Operator of the Year from the Provincial Government.

Brian was a passionate sports fan, especially of hockey and baseball, and an accomplished baseball player in his youth and adulthood, playing pitcher for the Sabaskong Lakers. Known for his friendly and easygoing nature, Brian was deeply loved by his community and family. He was fond of his siblings' children, always there with a smile, a gift, or a helping hand. In Ojibwe/Anishinaabe culture, Brian embodied the spirit of an Ogichitaa—a true warrior.

He will be lovingly remembered by his family and friends, including pallbearers Tyson Kelly, Shawn Kelly, Roger Allan, Edmund Allan, Ray Indian, Matthew Indian-Copenace, and Elijah Indian. Honorary pallbearers include Ryan Lewis, Fred Lewis, and his Water Treatment Plant team members Amanda Kelly, Brian Shebagegit, and Dan Kavanaugh.

Lalie “Lollie” Archie

January 8, 1950 - November 2, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the sudden passing of Lalie “Lollie” Archie, known as Memngwaa Miigsi, on November 2, 2024, at the age of 74. Lollie passed away at Rainycrest Long Term Care in Fort Frances and is now reunited with her beloved husband, Louis, her children, and her parents.

Lollie was born on January 8, 1950, in Assabaska First Nation to parents Steven Adams and Jean Archie. She cherished time with her children, grandchildren, and extended family members. Lollie worked in tourism and as a janitor for Big Island First Nation, leaving an impact through her dedication and kindness.

She is lovingly remembered by her sisters Susan (Tommy Councillor), Kristine, Lena, and her brother Leslie. Her memory lives on through her grandchildren Ashley, Brittany, Brendan, Cassandra, Rashel, Colton, and her many great-grandchildren. Lollie is predeceased by her parents, Steven and Jean; adopted parents Pegamigaabo (Billy) & Sagachine ‘binesiik (Rosie) Archie; siblings Jenny, Garry, Doris, and Larry; children Patricia, Sandra, and Louis Jr.; and her husband, Louis Kirkrude.

A traditional wake will be held on Thursday, November 7, at 4:00 p.m. at Big Grassy First Nation Hall, with a traditional service on Friday, November 8, at 10:00 a.m., also at Big Grassy First Nation Hall. Interment will follow at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Rainy River.

In Lollie’s memory, donations to the Alzheimer’s Society of Kenora/Rainy River District would be greatly appreciated. Arrangements have been entrusted to Northridge Funeral Home Ltd. in Emo, Ontario.

We offer our deepest sympathies to Lollie’s family and friends. May her memory be a source of comfort during this time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.