November 30, 1960 – November 30, 2022
John Barry Wapioke was born November 30, 1960 and began his journey into the spirit world on November 30, 2022; his 62nd birthday. John will be missed dearly by his siblings, Lorraine, Lorne (Lisa), Earl (Shona), Eleanor, Isabel, Debbie (Jeff) and Patricia; his children Kelly (Troy), Jeannine (Dave), Jenna, John (Nadine), Desiree, Myles, Travis and Michael; his grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews as well as countless friends. John will also be missed by his Anishnaabeo’maamaayin Viola.
He is predeceased by his mother Elsie, his father Lloyd Briggs, his grandparents Betsy and John, his brothers Danny, George, Lloyd, and sister Margrita as well as his Anishnaabeo’dede’aabonan Frank.
John treated everyone like a friend; often joking and laughing with those he came across in his daily travels. Although he maintained a tough exterior, he had a kind and most generous heart. People will also remember him for having the biggest smile. He was a true craftsman at everything he did. He was incredibly talented and meticulous with his work on all his projects. He enjoyed spending time outdoors and carrying on traditional harvesting practices. If John wasn’t spending time with his family including fishing and building homes with his brothers, one might find him on the roads, in his gravel truck, putting in long hours. If he didn’t know how to do something, he would teach himself how to do it and always did it well.
Although he could not always easily show it, John loved all his children deeply; often mentioning that he wanted them to grow into strong human beings.
Grampa John adored his grandchildren. When they visited him, he happily played on the floor with them, chased them around the house/yard and fed them candy.
Throughout his lifetime, he held many occupations and took on many roles. He was a First Nations Constable, firefighter, Band Councillor, Chief, Chair of Treaty Three Police Services’ Board, carpenter, Bass Classic weigh-master and heavy equipment operator. John also selflessly supported the community and many families with recovery efforts and services for their loved ones. Being a helper was his true nature.
The family would like to express sincere gratitude and appreciation to Treaty Three Police Service and the exceptional health care teams in both Kenora and Thunder Bay especially Nurse Michelle who provided incredible support to John and his children. Miigwech as well to the leadership and members of Iskatewizaagegan No. 39 for all the love and support.
Traditional services will be officiated by Ron Indian-Mandamin at David Kejick School in Iskatewizaagegan No. 39 First Nation. Wake service on Sunday December 4, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. and funeral service on Monday December 5, 2022.
The family would like to acknowledge the Honourary Pallbearers: Tom Neniska, Sean Rose, Glen Iwanoczko, Bart Stevenson and his sons, Michael and Travis. The family also acknowledges the Traditional Pallbearers: His brothers Lorne and Earl Wapioke, his sons John Jr. and Myles Wapioke and Stewart Neniska, John Neniska, Charlton Pahpasay and Robert C. Williamson.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com for the Wapioke family.