EABAMETOONG FIRST NATION MOURNS THE PASSING OF JOSEPH DAVID MISSEWACE
MEDIA RELEASE
February 19, 2025 | FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
EABAMETOONG FIRST NATION MOURNS THE PASSING OF JOSEPH DAVID MISSEWACE
EABAMETOONG FIRST NATION, ON: Eabametoong First Nation (EFN) Chief Sol Atlookan, on behalf of Eabametoong First Nation Council, sends condolences to the family, friends and community following the passing of Joseph (Jojo) David Missewace, who passed away with his family by his side on February 18, 2025 at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre in Thunder Bay at the age of 58 years.
Born September 25, 1966, in Lansdowne House, Jojo embraced his faith and traditional teachings and way of life, instilling these values in the staff and students at the Matawa Education and Care Centre (MECC) where he worked. Jojo generously shared his wisdom with the younger generation through his quiet guidance and heartfelt storytelling. He understood the importance of support systems and family values, making him an unwavering rock for his loved ones. He embraced additional responsibilities with love and grace, offering strength and encouragement to those around him.
Jojo is preceded in death by his late father, Joseph Jacob Nate; his stepfather, Charlie Okeese; his brother, Alexander Missewace; and his daughter-in-law, Monica Kenequanash.
He is fondly remembered and deeply missed by his mother, Caroline Nate; his brother, Ron Missewace (Jemimah), his sisters Shirley Fiddler (Roy) and Sharon Nate. His stepbrother’s Quincy O’keese and Roland O’keese and stepsister Ginger Wapoose. Also, by his truest love, Marilyn Missewace, his children Cheryl Suganaqueb (Gerald), Lilliana Barkman (Floyd), Emylee Missewace (Kaine) Brennan Missewace (Tammy) Jeremy Achneepineskum (Jade) and his grandchildren: Ayden, Jaimi-Lyn, Maya, Lenaya, Taylor, Taylor-Ann, Tyler, Jacob, Ethan, Evan, Lincoln, Makenna, Albany, Gabriel, Sabrina, Kylie, Chase, Arianna, Trey, and great grandchildren: Kajsa, Kade, and Aniyah with whom he cherished. As well as several nephews, nieces, cousins, aunts and uncles with whom he was very close to.
Jojo’s legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, the traditions he upheld, and the knowledge he so passionately shared.
Funeral arrangements and details will be shared in the coming days, with a service to be held at the Matawa Education and Care Centre in Thunder Bay. Should friends so desire, donations may be made in Jojo’s memory to the Courage Bursary, which was created in his late brother Alexander’s memory at: achievingthedream.ca.