Marianna Couchie
Who knew that the tiny girl who was distressed that her older brothers would “miss the {school} bus” in the morning would carry the nickname “mit-de-but” into later life and that her concern for education would lead to her own secondary school graduation, then a post-secondary B.A. degree from the University of North Dakota, a Masters degree in Education (U. of T.) and finally an Honorary Doctorate in Education from Nipissing University.
Her passion for educating children and youth began as a teacher in Attawapiskat for The Dept. of Indian Affairs, then continued for twenty-five years as an Education Officer with the Ontario Ministry of Education, and service as a teacher and on the Board at Nipissing University. Her work in the field also continued in her home community of Nipissing First Nation and beyond.
Marianna’s commitment to her community also led to leadership roles in the political arena where she served from 2003 to 2015, first as Deputy Chief, then as Chief for nine years. Her work is done now. She has earned her rest and peace abundantly. It is up to those of us who survive to honour her memory and carry on her life of service.
Marianna-ban is survived by her spouse Mary, daughter Katie, son Matthew, brothers Dan (Eva) and Chris (Tena), sister Terry and numerous nieces and nephews and cousins who mourn her passing. She was pre-deceased by parents Fred and Pat and by her siblings Fred, Ninabelle, Cindy and Kelly.
Her family is receiving friends at Big Medicine Studio, 161 Couchie Memorial Dr., North Bay on Fri, Nov. 29 to Sun. Dec. 1 from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. On Sat. and Sun., there will be Sunrise Ceremonies in the tipi at 7:30 a.m. and Evening Ceremonies in the studio at 5 p.m. Her funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Mon. Dec. 2, followed by a feast.
In lieu of flowers, Marianna wished that people make a donation to a charity of their choice. Online condolences can be made at www.hillsidefuneral.ca
Hillside Funeral Services Ltd.
