JEAN MARTINA MISHIBINIJIMA
(Mama Jean)
February 29, 1948 – September 12, 2024
In loving memory of Jean Martina Mishibinijima (Mama Jean) who passed away in the early morning hours with her beloved husband Walter by her side at the Wikwemikong Nursing Home on Thursday, September 12, 2024 at the age of 76. Beloved daughter of the late John and Bernadette Pangowish (both predeceased). She will be sadly missed by her loving husband of 57 years and their children Francis (Patricia), Samantha and Charlie (Lupita, Dallas, Texas). Jean will be sadly missed by her brother Clarence (Marilyn); sisters Mary Magana (Florida), Lima (Francis Jacko, predeceased) and Julia (Ernie Beaven, predeceased). She will be greatly missed by her grandchildren Maria, Kenny Martin, Katelyn, Destiny Lewis (Cortney, B.C.), Jason, Brianna, Ethan, Ivory and Kevin (Dallas, Texas). She leaves behind three great-grandchildren Avery, Jacob and Myika. She is reunited with her beloved son Darren and siblings Stanley (Joanne), Henry, Marina (Dan Recollet), Annie and Lorraine (all predeceased). Jean loved children. Walter and Jean served as foster parents for many years, welcoming 163 children into their home over the years. They fostered many children from First Nations communities of Ontario. She enjoyed attending minor sports watching her foster boys play hockey, basketball and other sports. Jean took great pride making quill boxes that were featured in the National Enquirer Magazine. Jean also loved being a cook at all camp outings with family. She also made delicious meals such as fried fish with scone and turkey dinners that will be missed. She had her special way of preparing many festive meals at Christmas, Thanksgiving and birthday parties. She and Walter took pride in many construction projects such as building family camps. The 10-year annual “Wally Walks” was especially gratifying for Walter and Jean and the Fostering Future Fund. Jean enjoyed her trips to casinos and bingo halls. She graciously shared her winnings with her family. Family and friends gathered at the Rabbit Island Community Centre on Sunday, September 15, 2024 at 1 pm. The funeral mass took place at the Holy Cross Mission, Wikwemikong, on Friday, September 18, 2024 at 11 am. Burial followed at the Kaboni Cemetery.
