Mary Evelyn Prince

Wahbishkeh mushkoodeh pishikee ikwe - White Buffalo Woman; nickname Chimash

            It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother on August 3, 2019. She was 68 years old. Mary was the middle child of Albert and Bertha Prince. She is predeceased by her parents, sister Lorraine Sanderson, brother-in-law Walter Sanderson, brother Willie Prince and niece Carla Prince. She leaves to mourn her passing ­­­­­­­­her children Laverne, Derek, Lorna, Myrna, Sheryl, Jessica, chosen children Delores, Angelina. Leona and Melanie; sister in law Laura Prince; granddaughters Tia, Riki, Annie, Jr., Jamie, Gracie, Miley, Rees; grandsons Danny, Diddles, Kelly, Nick, Jordan, Joey, Brandon, AJ, Parker, Bradley, Dene, Baby Will, and Alvin Jr.; 15 great grandchildren as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

            Mary was born in Sandy Bay First Nation on December 11, 1950. She lived there for many years before moving to Portage la Prairie and later Brandon to pursue her education and career as a Teacher. Upon graduation from Brandon University she returned to her home community where she had the opportunity to teach grade 1 for 17 years.  Mary had an incredible work ethic and a passion for education. She imparted upon her children and grandchildren the significance of hard work and education, constantly encouraging growth and learning. She was also very proud of her Saulteaux heritage, particularly the teachings she received from her grandfather Louie Prince. She instilled the importance of language, culture and traditions in her family.

            Mary was a respected community member, known for her loving heart and warm, generous nature. She had a way of making everyone whose path she crossed feel special. She loved gardening and taking care of her plants, and she had a special place in her heart for pets, cats in particular.  It was in her character to nurture, and in addition to her own she also adopted and fostered many children over the years.  She was especially proud of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, her most prized possessions. Her extraordinary strength made her a role model, and she has left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.

            We would like to express our gratitude to the staff at Deer Lodge Centre for the excellent care they provided during our Mom’s stay. Also the staff at Cardiac Centre of Excellence – Asper Institute, who gave us the gift of one more year with her.

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