Robert Gregory Wade Kelly, Ogemaabines was born October 19, 1977 at Lavendrye General Hospital to Kathy Kishiqueb and Robert Smith. Greg was a proud band member of Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation, Ontario and passed away Sunday, November 13, 2022 at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Centre.
Greg as we all knew him was a strong, intellectual, free-spirited individual who fought to the end surrounded by loving family members and with the unconditional love and support of his mom. Greg was dedicated and loyal to his family bloodline often expressing he came from the best of both families, Onigaming and Naicatchewenin First Nation.
He is predeceased by his grandmothers Mary Kelly of Onigaming First Nation and paternal grandparents Mary and Alfred Smith of Naicatchewenin. His aunt Harriet Joseph of Whitefish Bay First Nation and his best friends Gus Copenace Jr., and his mother Pam Copenace who embraced him as one of his own.
Greg leaves behind his mom, Kathy Kishiqueb (David), Dad Robert Smith, maternal grandfather, Steve Joseph, sisters Jody Smith, Kylee Mainville, Trina Smith, Shauna Perreault and Bobbi-Jo Perreault, Brother Wendell Smith along with 16 precious nieces and nephews. Aunties Debbie Paypompee (Terry), Tara Singleton (Keith), Jane Councillor and Debbie Smith, Uncles Charlie (Colleen) and She Sash as well as many numerous cousins.
While in pursuit of his university education he was a campus radio DJ, president of the University Indigenous student council and held the same role in high school.
Greg enjoyed cooking for this family and help raising his niece Cadence and nephews, Sebastian and DJ.
He was passionate about education and governance and his zest for being up to date with current news was his daily routine.
Greg was witty and enjoyed laughter. He was gifted the ability to make friendships and those who knew him were blanketed in kindness, loyalty and teasing. His cousins and family members held a special place close to his heart, as he often encouraged and praised those. His message to them was consistent that he was proud of them and continue living life.
Wake service will be held on Thursday, November 17, 2022 beginning at 3:00 p.m. at the Onigaming School Gymnasium. Funeral Service will be held on Friday, November 18, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. officiated by Elder, Tommy Councillor at the Onigaming School Gymnasium with interment to follow in the Ojibway’s of Onigaming First Nation.
Pallbearers will be Chief Jeff Copenace, Wendell Smith, Tyrell Smith, Lil Joe Letander, Stacy Kelly, Sean Councillor, Jason Paypompee, Mason Paypompee and Adrian Indian.
Honorary Pallbearers are Mary BigGeorge, Marjorie Weesk, Wenona Kingbird, Deb Emes and Jamie Kelly.
Our heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Jenks and Thunder Bay ICU nurses and doctors.
In memory of Greg Kelly donations can be made to Fort Frances Family Centre.