ALBERT (BUD) LOUIS DEBASSIGE
September 18, 1948 – September 2, 2024
Bud began his spirit journey just shy of his 76th birthday surrounded by family at the Manitoulin Health Centre, Mindemoya. Survived by his sister Mabel (Richard); sons Neil (Dianne) and Derek (Joanna); grandchildren Darci, Aspen, Nova and Drew; traditionally adopted daughter Ida (Donny and their sons Jay, Ethan and Isaac) and many special extended family and friends including Francis Endanawas (Keri) and their children Briana, Courtney and Ethan, Natalie Eshkawkogan (Eugene) and their wonderful children Eugenia and Ferris. He also leaves many nieces, nephews and their beloved families all over Turtle Island, of which he was particularly close with his favourite niece and nephew. Predeceased by wife Anne (nee McCann); parents Tom and Lillian (nee MacDonald); and siblings Jerome, Aggie, Bruno, Michael, Doreen, Doug, Sammy, Jackie, Ross, Teddy, Mildred, Charlie, Mervin, Gladys, Bobby, Genevieve and Tom. Bud spent much of his childhood effectively raised in the care of his sisters, in particular Doreen and her husband Charlie Beaudin and their children Albert, Robert, Charles, Darlene, Roger and Michael. For this loving gift he was forever grateful. He was later welcomed into his loving wife Anne’s extended family from Newfoundland, the McCanns. Bud was born in M’Chigeeng and raised from humble beginnings. He forged a long and successful career in many different realms. He was instrumental in establishing the United Chiefs and Councils of Manitoulin (now UCCMM), and served as its founding director for many years. He switched gears mid-life to the field of education after attaining degrees from Western University in London, ON, where he and his family lived for a short time, followed by Lakehead University. He served as teacher to many members of M’Chigeeng and later as principal of Lakeview School and also as principal for many years in the remote community of Kashetchewan. He will be remembered for his hospitality, mentorship, his quick wit, his love of laughter, karaoke, time on the water, moose hunting, and the odd casino trip. Family and friends laid down some tobacco in memory of their connections with Bud at the scared fire after 6 pm on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 and Thursday, September 5, 2024 at Neil’s place, 415f Lakeshore Drive in M’Chigeeng. A private ceremony for family took place on Friday, September 6, 2024 (same location) followed by a feast at the complex.
