Obituary of Eva Brenda Armstrong

ARMSTRONG, Eva Brenda - It is with deepest sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Eva Brenda Armstrong. Our mom, a true warrior, crossed over to the spirit world on Wednesday, March 2, 2022 at the age of 59 years. As per mom’s wishes, she passed away in the comfort of her home with her family of cubs by her side.

Predeceased by her parents, Melford and Margaret Armstrong, sister, Mary-Ann, brother, Melford and her traditional sister and chum, Charmaine Saunders. Beloved mother and protector to her cubs Gordon, Stuart, Charlene (Charleston), Arielle and Wolfgang. Dear sister to Sharon (Ken), Edith (Ricky), Cheryl (Eugene), Rose and Ryan. Cherished Granny to her grandcubs Gordon Jr., Aaliyah, Taria, Jastien, Ryeden, Dion, Domi, CJ., Sky, Akiera, Creeinn, Shadoe and Richie and her fur friends Ali and Yawhg. Brenda will be remembered by many nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews, great grand niece and cherished friends.

Brenda spent her early years growing up in Hanmer, ON. Brenda had many special memories growing up on Onwatin Lake Road. She could be found most days with her lifelong friend Christine Hurst or just being outdoors with a picnic her mother prepared for Brenda and her siblings to take along with them while they enjoyed the great outdoors exploring the surrounding bush area or the rapids at the end of the street, and sometimes that picnic was often eaten before they even reached their destination.

During her teen years Brenda moved to Moosonee to live with her Uncle, Jerry McAuley. Brenda started her family in Moosonee and soon began working for Child & Family Services. Brenda was passionate about her work, and the families she worked with, and was a cherished colleague.

Christmas was a source of true joy for Brenda. Each holiday was and forever will be a reflection on the many cherished memories she brought us; those happy times will be with us even in the moments when we miss her lively presence and warm smiles.

Her chum Charmaine Saunders was a kindred spirit in passions, in hearts, in interests, and both now bring us comfort as ancestors, watching and protecting over us. We rejoice in the knowledge they are now reunited.

Brenda loved her many bush rides with her siblings, children and grandchildren. She enjoyed spending time with all her family. Swimming and fishing at her sister Cheryl or Edith’s camp accompanied with her children and grandchildren brought her so much joy. Hunting trips with her sisters, brother Ryan or her grandchildren and good friend Andy was an experience that fulfilled her with happiness. She often recounted the story of her grandson CJ’s first successful moose hunt and other successful hunts that followed. The unconditional love and laughter Brenda shared was a memorable gift that will be missed.

Brenda could always be found in the company of those she loved. Her family was her entire life and she could always be heard speaking about their achievements. If she wasn’t speaking about them, she was dancing in the kitchen while she cooked their favourite meals, establishing a yearly reunion with her children and grandchildren for summer fun, fish fries, swimming, and camping, and ensuring everyone was happy, healthy, and full. We will treasure her love forever, and it will always be felt.

The conviction of love for her children and grandchildren and the strength in her spirit and sheer determination she demonstrated in her final days was incredibly astounding.

Goodnight, Gordon. Goodnight, Stuart. Goodnight, Charlene. Goodnight, Arielle. Goodnight, Wolfgang.

Friends and family are invited to visit the Pow Wow grounds on Fox Lake Reserve on Friday March 4, 2022 until Sunday March 6, 2022 with a traditional sharing circle beginning at 4:00 p.m.  A Community Feast to follow at 5:30 p.m. at the Band Complex at 828 Fox Lake Road. A memorial service will take place in the Summer of 2022.

The family would like to thank Dr. Cano, Timmins Chemotherapy department nursing staff, Timmins Hampton Inn, Chapleau Hospital Nursing staff, Chapleau Cree Health Centre and Barbara Cormier, RN and special Thank you to Tracy Martin, RPN., and friend. Chi Meegwetch to Jake Agoneh for providing her cultural and spiritual guidance. Gitchi Meegwetch to Chapleau Cree First Nation and all the First Nation communities and members for their generous love and support shown.

Memorial donations made to the Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated by the family.

(Arrangements entrusted to the Kerry Funeral Home, Wawa, ON 1-800-439-4937). www.kerryfuneralhome.ca