DARLENE JOAN MAHGAGAHBOW RIVERS

DARLENE JOAN MAHGAGAHBOW RIVERS “Waasezhe-dibiki-giizhigoo-kwe” Anishinaabe-kwe of Wiikwemkoong Amikoon Doodeman (Beaver Clan) Sunrise, January 17, 1965 to Sunset, April 13, 2023 Darlene Joan Mahgagahbow Rivers, at the age of 58, began her spirit journey peacefully in her home in Toronto, Ontario surrounded by her loving family and friends on April 13, 2023. Dearly beloved wife to Randy and proud mother to Cheryl (Barry), Rainy, Aazheniis (Avery), Elikoonh (Maddie), stepsons Keith and Joseph, and special stepdaughter Eliza (Junior). Wonderful Nokomis Gammy who adored Kyra, Keiara, Kreedan, Kwiin, Klassik, Ayla, Aaden and Eelan. Daughter of the late John and Florence (nee Neganigwane) Osawamick, loving sister to Barbara (Tom baa), Jean (baa), Donnie (Frieda), Martina (Ron baa), Stan (Tish), Gertie (Max), Beverley (Louie), Pat, Johnny (baa), Ricky (Rose), Ann-Marie (Patrick baa), Eddie (Jodi), Lilly (baa) (Paul), Joey (Clara baa), Elizabeth and traditional adopted brother Donald Jocko Sr. of Akwesasne. Sweet Godmother to Corey Jacobs. Cherished sister-in-law of the late Ambrose (baa) (Bonita), Sharon (baa), Julianne, Rebecca (Loren), Ronald (Violet), Daniel and Fay (Craig); daughter-in-law of the late Violet (baa) Mahgagahbow-Rivers (Joseph baa). “Zigos-Auntie Dar” was dearly loved by many nieces and nephews and will be greatly missed by many friends and relatives on all sides of her families. Special relations with surviving Zigosag Shirley and Rosella. Darlene had such a special way of sharing her unique humour and her laughter with everyone. She had a vibrant spirit who enjoyed the outdoor life and she always appreciated the many visits with her dear friends, Emily Kimewon her best friend from Day School, Arlene Pitawanakwat, Denise Kimewon and Maanii-Nowii Debassige. Darlene enjoyed helping with the food preparation for the many catering gigs and food stands to support her sisters Pat and Beverley. She always took the lead in preparing the fried bread and graciously volunteered wherever she was needed. Darlene had such a special way of sharing her hospitality and she would always be the first to say “kamji’iin.” She proudly contributed toward the protection of Anishinaabemowin, our language that she so eloquently spoke with great fluency. Darlene graduated in 1997 from the Native Language Instructors Program, Lakehead University. Her love, generosity and kind soul will be greatly missed. “G’zaagin miiniwaa g’chi-miigwech Darlene.” Darlene’s Celebration of Life / traditional gathering for familytook place on Sunday, April 16, 2023, after 4 pm at St. Anthony Daniel Church at 2085 Kaboni Road in Wiikwemkoong. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at the Holy Cross Church at 11 am with Fr. Paul as celebrant. Interment in Wiikwemkoonsing Cemetery followed by a Feast. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Osawamick G’Tigaaning and Anishinaabemowin-Teg Inc. Arrangements entrusted to the Lougheed Funeral Home. For donations or messages of condolence, www.lougheedfuneralhomes.com.