03/14/2026
Lawrence Courchene (Clem/Big Guy)
Binesii Makwa “Thunder Bear”
Age 77
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Father, Brother, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, Uncle, Brother-in-law, and Friend on March 12, 2026.
Clem will be lovingly remembered by his children, Clayton (Jessie), Tina, Ruby, Gail (Rick), Johnny (Cindy), Lou (Fran), Corey (Aaron), Stephanie (Richard), Sheldon, Clem Jr, his adopted sons, Bill, and Craig. His greatest treasures his grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Clem also leaves to mourn his siblings, Ruth (Morris), Beverly, Sara (Kenny), Merle, (Jerry), Lisa (Rob), Randy, Kelly, sisters-in-laws, brothers-in-laws, nieces, nephews, and many, many friends. Clem was predeceased by his loving wife of 48 years Phyllis, father Walter, mother Martina, daughter Lana, and son, Melvin, grandsons, Craig and Kevin, granddaughter Rikki and great-grandson Sterling. Siblings, Abel, Harold, Garry, Sheldon, Jimmy, Marge, Valarie, and Patsy.
Dad was a man who showed unwavering dedication to all those he loved, especially his 55 grandchildren who were the centre of his life. Dad was an avid sports enthusiast in his younger years, Dad actively participated in Fastball with Sagkeeng Cubs, and the Braves hockey team. Dad remained a lifelong Toronto Maple Leaf fan and never lost hope for Toronto winning a cup. Throughout their lives, Dad and Big Mama hosted many Jr. B players over the years. Big guy would still get phone calls from young men that would seek his advice and support.
Dad resided in Sagkeeng, demonstrating a strong work ethic through various occupations. His most notable achievement was the CLC Nipi Company, a business he ran in collaboration with his sons and family. In the evenings, Dad often spent time playing cards with his siblings, watching UFC with his sons, daughter Stephanie, and grandsons, playing wolf bingo, and watching his sons and grandchildren play hockey.
Dad was a highly respected Sundance Chief, taking immerse pride in leading uplifting ceremonies. He made annual trips to Toronto to share life-enriching ceremonies and during his 20-years he formed lasting, lifelong connections with many people.
Wake services will be held at the family home, 285 Tipi Road, Sagkeeng First Nation, beginning Saturday, March 14, 2026, to Tuesday, March 16, 2026. Funeral services will be held at St. Alexander Roman Catholic Church, Sagkeeng First Nation, Manitoba, on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 1:00pm, with final viewing at 12:00 noon. Feast to follow at Sagkeeng Band Hall.
Condolences may be sent to the family c/o Spirit Road Funeral Services Inc., PO Box 200, Fort Alexander, Manitoba, R0E 0P0, 204-340-6490, or friends may leave a message of sympathy at spiritroadfunerals@gmail.com.