Leona Catherine (Recollet) Nahwegahbow

Leona Catherine Nahwegahbow Mno Aankwad Kwe was born on Mnidoo-Mnising in the community of Wiikwemkoong, August 17th, 1945, one of 6 children born to Ralph and Christine Recollet.

She met Adam Nahwegahbow at Mordolphton Lodge in Birch Island, where they both worked. They fell in love and were married on November 25th, 1961. She was the proud mother of 3 children, Rodney (w/Bev),  Julian and Laurie Ann (h/Neil). Grandmother to Curtis, Keith, Duncan and Ethan. Great Grandmother to Caleb and Luke… and best friend to Kwezens. Survived by her brother John (Sheila predeceased), and predeceased by her siblings, Grace, Rose (Emile predeceased), Frederick (Viola), Josephine (Eugene), and Special Sisters Doris and Linda. She will be missed by many nieces, nephews, family and friends.

Leona was a humble, caring and kind Anishinaabe Kwe whose generous nature and wisdom naturally drew her into a life of service to her community and the Anishinaabe people. She became an elementary school teacher and through her active involvement in the community was voted in as a band councillor and eventually as Chief.

She served as President of the Ontario Native Women’s Association, Robinson Huron Regional Grand Chief, and on numerous boards and committees in the Sudbury-Manitoulin-North Shore area.

Her love for life was expressed in the many gifts and talents she shared through stories, songs and cultural teachings. Anishinaabemowin danced off her tongue and was like music to the hearts and ears of her listeners.

Family was her center, as she was theirs, and though her passing brings sorrow, we take comfort in the beautiful memories she created that continue to inspire; and in knowing she returns home and that her spirit soars to join her beloved Adam on “The other side of the moon.”

Gmikwenmigoon! Ga waabmin zhewendemaag miinwa Gzhemnidoo

Cremation services provided by Simple Wishes of the North, Sudbury and Crystal Crematorium.

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