THOMAS WILBERT CORBIERE “BLACK STANDING BEAR” July 4, 1960 – September 9, 2019

THOMAS WILBERT CORBIERE
“BLACK STANDING BEAR”
July 4, 1960 – September 9, 2019
In Loving Memory of Thomas Wilbert Corbiere, Black Standing Bear, July 4, 1960 to September 9, 2019. Bear passed away at home in Crystal, Michigan on Monday, September 9, 2019 at the age of 59. He was born in Mindemoya, Ontario, Canada to parents Patrick Saigon “Patty Turkey” and Elizabeth Corbiere (both predeceased). Bear is survived by his wife Carol Corbiere “Cedar Woman,” daughter Kirsten, step-children Emily and James Boothroyd and seven grandchildren. Bear will be missed by his Uncle Wilbert Corbiere. He will be dearly missed by nieces Debbie Spanish and her four children, Kimberly Bebonang and her son, Samantha Southwind (Luke) and their eight children and nephews Darral Spanish and Patrick. Bear was predeceased by sister Doreen Corbiere, step-children Alison and Grant Mitchell, niece Jacklyn Corbiere and nephew Peter. Bear attended and graduated from school in Sault Saint Marie. Had been employed by Ventra in Ionia as a quality inspector for the past 4 years. Prior to that, he worked for Soaring Eagle Casino as part of the kitchen staff. Bear also worked as a substance abuse counselor in Escanaba many years ago. He was a member of McChigeeng First Nation Tribe on Manitoulin Island, Ontario and was very fluent in speaking Ojibwa. Bear married Carol Roberts on May 16, 2005 in Ionia. He was a very devoted husband to his “nooks,” Carol. Bear loved his dogs Bonnie, Pansy, and Toto dearly, as well as his cat and chickens. Bear was a man of many traits, from his beading to his outstanding craftsmanship. He enjoyed the outdoors, walks with his dogs, music, his garage with all of his tools, as well as going to pow wows. He was a very cultural and spiritual man who was always learning, teaching and growing. He was most passionate for his wife, the lady that crossed the ocean for him, she gave him the inspiration to be the amazing loving husband, uncle and friend. Visitation was September 13, 2019 from 7 pm at Saswaahns Centre. Sunrise Service was Sunday, September 15, 2019. Drumming Social was at 10 am with a traditional service that followed. Cremation.