MURRAY COURCHENE

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MURRAY (JOE) COURCHENE Murray (Joe) Courchene (Wapiski Pinesiw Mikwan Ininiw - White Thunderbird Feather Man) passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Thursday, May 25, 2017. Joe was born in Fort Alexander on May 10, 1962. His parents are Anita Bellgarde and predeceased Charles Courchene (2011) and his mother-in-law Betsy Kematch. Joe graduated from St. John's High School in Winnipeg, Manitoba in the year of 1980. He went on to graduate with honours from University of Manitoba for Agriculture the year of 1985, he also obtained a business management degree from University of Lethbridge in 1986. When he graduated from university, he became a professor of business management. While working as a professor, he mentored numerous indigenous youth. Joe believed in economic development strategies to help indigenous people grow an economic base to help sustain their communities. He worked in Fort Simpson, NWT from 1990 to 1992 as an economic development officer. From 1993 to 1995 he worked in Vancouver, BC as an external delivery officer. From 1995 to 1997 he moved to Winnipeg, MB and worked as an self-employed business development contractor. From 1997 to 2000 Joe worked for Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada. From 2003 to 2015 he worked for Fox Lake Cree Nation. 2016 he worked for Indigenous Management Group. Joe loved to travel, he was fortunate to work in positions that allowed him to travel all over the world. Joe is survived by his wife Carla Kematch, and his children: Cameron Courchene, Chantelle Courchene and son-in-law Julian Roulette, and Joseph Courchene (Jr), his siblings: Milt Courchene, Lorraine Courchene, Lawerence (Dan) Courchene, and Andrea Courchene, his nieces: Renee Courchene, Brooke Courchene, Jessica Courchene, and Kristen Courchene, and his nephews: Jay Courchene, Kyle Courchene, Jordan Courchene, and Daniel Courchene. Joe enjoyed spending time with his family, travelling, playing golf, and especially hockey. He was a loyal and generous man who took care of everyone that crossed his path without judgment. The family has asked that in lieu of flowers, donations to CancerCare in Joe's name would be greatly appreciated. Wake service will be held on Tuesday, May 30, 2017 at 6:00 p.m. at Eternal Grace Funerals located at 1111 Logan Ave. at McPhillips Street. Funeral service will follow on Wednesday, May 31, 2017 at 12:00 p.m. also at the chapel. Viewing prior to the service time. Cremation to follow. Eternal Grace Funerals 1 - (204) - 505 - 4559 www.eternalgracefunerals.ca

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 30, 2017