James Archie (Azh a waan kwat), 87

James Archie, age 87, passed away on Wednesday, March 5, 2008 at LaVerendrye General Hospital in Fort Frances, ON.
He was born on June 9, 1920 in Big Grassy First Nation to the late Jack and Jean Archie. As a young man he joined the Royal Canadian ordinance Corps. and the Royal Canadian Electrical Mechanical Engineers. During WWII he served in Canada, England, France Holland, Belgium and Germany from 1942 to Feb. 16, 1946. Following the war James decided to see more of the world; travelling to South Africa, Australia, New Zealand and Alaskabefore returning to Big Grassy First Nation. Upon returning home he worked as a commercial fisherman for his father and guided in the Morson area. James enjoyed visiting with friends and family, fishing, drumming, singing and reading. He always enjoyed visiting his buddies at the Royal Canadian Legion Major Hughes Branch. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.
James was predeceased by his wife Maggie; daughter Margaret and son-in-law Donnie Morrison; his parents who died while he was overseas in the army; twin brother John and his sister Alice Crow.
He leaves behind his children Sally Hawk of Winnipeg, MB, Virginia Archie of Rainy River, ON, Verna and husband Mark Aquash of Dulth, MN, Perry Archie of Rainy River First Nations, ON and James Archie of Ottawa, ON as well as numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
A traditional wake was held on Sunday March 9, 2008 from 3 p.m. at the Big Grassy First Nation Gymnasium.
A traditional service was held on Monday March 10, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. at the Big Grassy First Nation Gymnasium. Elder Frank Green officiated with interment in the Big Grassy First Nation Cemetery.
The honourary pallbearers were Chipper Bourre, Frank Tom, Katherine Kelly, Morris Shebagegit, Malcolm Jack, Christine Comegan, Josephine Prince and all his family and friends.
The active pallbearers were Dallas Bluebird, Danny Bluebird, Patrick Archie, Derrick Archie, James Archie and Mark Aquash.
If friends so desire in memoriam donations may be made to the Royal Canadian Legion Major Hughes Branch, c/o Rainy River Funeral Home, Box 427, Fort Frances, ON, P9A 3M8.
Online condolences may be made in care of www.mem.com