John Zhaawanogaabo “Uncle Monkey” Copenace, Atik dodem (Elk clan).
Father, Granddad, Brother, Son, Uncle, Cousin, Friend to many, and band councillor at Big Grassy First Nation.
Born on August 11, 1968 to Melvina Copenace and Kenneth Big George (both deceased).
John entered the spirit world on October 15, 2018, on his beloved Lake of the Woods near Manitou Island. He will be remembered by his cherished children, Cheyenne, Johnny, Muriel, Jaylin, Jake, Alaina, Stephanie, Tyler, and Jason.
Sharing the sadness of John’s sudden passing are his siblings: Lorraine, David, Carol, Fred, Sherrise (Brad), Shannon, Vanessa (Paul), and Lindsay (Marcel). Pre-deceased by brothers Donald, Albert and Marshall. His adopted family are: Genevieve (Mom), Leona McGinnis, Bev Wilson (Al), Agnes Grover (Gilbert), Sonny McGinnis (Mirinda), Will McGinnis (Tina), and sister Chantal Batt.
John was always busy and helping people. He worked as a commercial fisherman, chef, elders’ helper at Assabaska Ojibway Heritage Park. He was a Sundancer, member of the Midewiwin Society, and traditional knowledge keeper, who was always eager to learn, teach and share his Anishnaabe language, culture and songs with the next generation. He was the lead singer of the Big Island Traditional Drum and the leader in bringing the songs and teachings of his elders back to his community. He looked forward to the children of Big Grassy and Big Island performing a play in Anishnabemowin. John was a quiet, kindhearted and generous soul, who gave great hugs because he meant them from his heart. He loved eating bananas.
Pallbearers are: Ted Atatise, Chris Reeves, Carl Maytawashing, David Paul III, Daniel Andy & Greywolf Cameron.
John will be enormously missed by his family, friends and the Lake of the Woods and Sundance communities.
May your spirit soar and continue to guide us, John. Gigawabamigo minawa, Zhaawanogaabo.