Michael Raymond Laliberte

OBITUARY

Michael was born in Meadow Lake, Sk. on March 11, 1955. He was a proud traditional powwow dancer for over 40 years, having danced at Disneyland and in countries like Russia, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Belgium, as well as across Turtle Island. He earned two degrees (a BSW and BA) and served as a probation officer for the province for 36 years before retiring.

Michael was an avid golfer, competitive 8-ball pool player, and card enthusiast who enjoyed crib and Kaiser with friends. He played basketball during his university years and had a deep passion for the game. He loved ice fishing/fishing with friends and was a die- hard Habs fan. Michael was deeply connected to his community, being adopted into the Favel family at Kawacatoose First Nation and the Thunderchild family at Thunderchild First Nation. His special sister, Maria Campbell, shared a deep bond with Michael.

In Michael's early years he worked with horses at his brother-in- law's PFR and loved horses. Michael was adopted by the late Jim Ryder at the beginning of his life of powwow following the Nakota Oyate way of life. His Nakota name was, "Follow", this was a name with many meanings and a very strong name. Michael was honoured to carry this name. For the past four years, he cherished living in Fishing Lake.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Michael Laliberte passed away on August 19, 2024. He is survived by his loving wife of 10 years, Rhonda Kayseas, her children: son Troy, daughter Madelyn, and grandchildren Rayvon, Kain, Tristain, Harmony Skye, Brett, and Carter. He is also survived by his son Gabriel Yahyahkeekoot, Tristan Laliberte, grandson, (fondly called T and, T called his grandpa Sipem), daughters Brittany Yahyahkeekoot, Dorion Brady, and Deirdre Statham (Rob), as well as daughters Misty Longman (and her son, Vance and daughter Memphis, they called their grandad, Mooshie) and Nickita Longman (Andrew). He also had many nieces, nephews and grandchildren.

Michael leaves behind his sisters Katherine Stubbs (Robert) of Winnipeg, MB, Jean Hardy (Ken) of Paradise Hill, SK, his brothers Oscar Laliberte of Meadow Lake, SK, and John Laliberte of LaRonge, SK. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Victoria Laliberte, his sister Helen Campbell, his brothers Paul Tourand and Roderick Laliberte, and sister-in-law

Michael was a driver for the Fishing Lake ABE 12 students, taking pride in ensuring they got to school and home safely. He held a special bond with his late friend Bob Boyer. They played a leadership role at the SIFC powwow for 27 years. He shared close friendships with his special brothers: the late Bob Boyer, Ray “Turk” Desjarlais, Boye Ladd, Merv Sparvier, Glen Pratt, the late Brian Akiwenzie, Frank Douglas, Robert Byers, Patrick McNab, Ron “Mole” McNab, and many others too numerous to name.

His best friend, Florence, held a special place in his heart.