Jack Arthur Tootoosis, 84, left this world on February 23, 2016 in North Battleford, Saskatchewan. He was born September 25, 1931 to Thomas and Mary Tootoosis (Whitford) on Poundmaker Cree Nation.

 

Jack accomplished many things in life and was an excellent role model for his people.  He and his wife Joyce were entrepreneurs for over 40 years.  They had a successful beauty salon in Poplar and Wolf Point, Montana. Jack and his wife Joyce, were dedicated members of the Red Eagle Dakota Presbyterian Church in Fort Kipp, Montana. Jack was involved in fund raising for the church which led him to travel extensively throughout the United States of America.  Jack developed life-long friendships with members of the church and community including Minister Kenneth Lehman and his late wife. Both Jack and his wife Joyce enjoyed travelling to visit family and friends near and far.

 

Jack was proud of his Cree heritage and respected his culture and First Nations spirituality. Jack’s pride and joy were his grand-children which gave him endless fulfillment; he had a humorous story about each one which he cherished. His favorite hobby was raising and riding horses as he had a strong deep-rooted connection with these magnificent animals. All who knew Jack loved his avid storytelling and humorous family tales.
Jack is survived by his three daughters: Doreen Rittinger of Regina, Karen Gardipy (Ray) of Saskatoon, Dorothy Myo (Richard Missens) of Saskatoon; one sister Eva Collins (Bill) of Great Falls, Montana.  Also surviving him are numerous nieces, nephews, grand-children and great grand-children who all held a special place in his heart.

 

He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Joyce; parents Thomas (Kihiw) and Mary Tootoosis; sons Byron Thomas Tootoosis and Lloyd Dennis Tootoosis; and two brothers Francis Tootoosis and Walter Tootoosis.

 

A traditional wake was held on Friday, February 26, 2016 at the Poundmaker Veterans’ Hall, Poundmaker Cree Nation. Wake Services were also held on Sunday, February 28, 2016 at the James Black Dog Center in Fort Kipp, Montana. Funeral Services took place on Monday, February 29, 2016 also at the James Black Dog Center. Interment followed at the Fort Kipp Cemetery.

The family has placed their trust with Kristeen Thiessen of Sallows and McDonald – Wilson and Zehner Funeral Home, North Battleford, SK, and Clayton Stevenson Memorial Chapel, Wolf Point, Montana.

• Date : 2016-02-23
• Location : North Battleford, SK