Josephine KIYEWAKAN

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KIYEWAKAN: Josephine Emily Chashenatowin (Blue Gum Woman) July 21, 1938 - August 15, 2015. Josie was born on the Oak River Reserve, Manitoba (now Sioux Valley Dakota Nation). Josie left peacefully to explore the great mystery and to be with the creator at the age of 77. Josie attended residential school at an early age. Later on at 19 years old she started to work at the Sheppard’s store in Griswold, Manitoba. She worked and lived in Griswold until her passing and has known Griswold as a thriving and vibrant little town. She did her best to keep busy by sewing quilts, gardening, canning and baking. Josie’s sense of humor lifted our spirits up. She had no children of her own but we were her children. She was always there for us when we needed help or guidance. She did raise a foster child Matthew Demas in his younger days. Josie has made so many friends, one especially good friend was the late Evelyn Joynt. Evelyn’s family was like Josie’s family. Josie was very traditional and spoke her Dakota language fluently. She looked forward to the annual Sioux Valley pow wow where she was able to see all her relatives and family. She was predeceased by her father James Kiyewakan and mother Ada Wasicuna; sisters Nancy Pompana, Rose Crane, Cora Bray and brother Morris and in infancy Pearly Jane and Wilfred Leo, as well as other extended family members. She leaves to treasure her memory her sister Rita of Calgary, as well as, many nieces, nephews and cousins. “Peacefully sleeping, resting at last the world’s weary trouble and trials are past.In silence she suffered, in patience she boreNever selfish, always kind, a special person .Our memories and her legacy is always there to light the way for us.Till the creator called her home to suffer no moreRest in peace till we meet again”Our sincerest thanks and appreciation to Dr. Cram, staff at Souris Hospital, staff at Dakota Oyate Lodge and staff at the Assiniboine Centre on the 3rd floor. You all have been so caring and supportive. Service to be held at Brockie Donovan Chapel on Tuesday, August 18, 2015 at 7:00 p.m. with traditional service at the Veteran’s Hall in Sioux Valley Wednesday, August 19, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. Interment at the St. Luke’s Anglican Cemetery in Sioux Valley.

As published in Brandon Sun on Aug 18, 2015