It is now 2022 and it still feels like it was yesterday last I saw you sitting by yourself as we left with my mother to. You looked alone, but not lonely; You knew your time was approaching and you wanted to be by yourself. That is courage. We still miss you, our memories help us appreciate you as years go by. 

I think of my father only during this time, his anniversary of his departure to the Camp-On-The-Other-Side. 

Time flies and memories linger to times where I grew up and we went out to your campgrounds at Mishisakiikan (Big Lake). I was in Attawapiskat, your mother's homeland and my grandmother. It's a lovely place. I could feel your family history throughout the place. I pictured you as a child running through the bushes and to the riverside with your brothers and sisters along side you. You are all there together now with your mother and father. You wait now for us. We'll see you in time, father. Rest in peace.

I understand your teachings in my life. Mikwech notawi.

Another year passes and your special day is today. I know you are not celebrating earth birthdays where you are, but in your memory, dad, I think of you with treasured memories. I remember those birthdays we celebrated with you, our family, friends, and relatives.

I still miss you everyday, dad, and its been 10 years and 7 months since you left us. It always seems like it was yesterday. Mom and I are doing okay. I try my best to take care of her like you told me to. She cries for you always. We love you we think of you often.

It's the 10th anniversary since you went home, dad, you still have a place in my heart. I've learned to let go and move on with my life applying just about all the things you taught me. Mainly, to be a decent, non-judgmental person, to be kind and help out where and when I able, to give my best in all I do and treat people well. Thank you.

It's been 9 years when our father left us. The gap is slowly closing as the years fly by, only memories remain of his time with his wife Susan, his daughters Pauline, Stella and Celine. He was blessed to see his grandchildren Bruce, David and Aaron. His blessings doubled when he lived to see his great-grandchildren Sonja and Ethan. We will never forget you, dad. Always in our hearts.

Our love and memories of dad will always be in our hearts. We miss you very much and always. He was my first love, my first teacher and I am grateful to him for the person I am and will become. He taught me to stand on my own two feet and to care for people. I miss his humour and laughter.