01/10/2026
Rhonda Marie Akan (Hottie)
pisimoyapiy waskow iskew
(Rainbow Cloud Woman)
July 16, 1965 – January 9, 2026
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Rhonda Marie Akan (Hottie), also known as “Hotdog” (her street name), who passed away on January 9, 2026, at the General Hospital, at the age of 60.
Rhonda was a deeply loved daughter, sister, auntie, grandma, cousin, and friend to many, known for her gentle spirit, warmth, and unconditional love for children.
She is lovingly survived by her mother, Hazel Bitternose, with whom she shared a deeply special bond. They were not only mother and daughter, but also partners and roommates, walking through daily life side by side with love, loyalty, and mutual care.
She is also survived by her siblings Louis (Donna), Sheryll (Karl), Ken, Joanne, Margaret, Wanda (Lorne), and David, who loved her dearly.
Rhonda is also survived by her cherished companion, Bella, her beloved mini Yorkshire Terrier who was always close by and brought her comfort and companionship.
Rhonda was predeceased by her father, Orvin Bitternose; her brother, Harvey Akan; her niece Liz; her maternal grandparents, Margaret Pinacie (nee Desnomie) and Gilbert McLeod; and her paternal grandparents, Harvey Bitternose and Ada Bitternose (nee Itittakoose).
Although Rhonda never physically had children of her own, her nieces and nephews were her children, and she loved and cared for them as such. She was a proud and loving auntie to her many nieces and nephews: Roger, Keri, Bonnie, Trenton, Koda, Austin, Russell, Emmylou, Sonya, John, Derek, Ben, Jasmine, Garret, Chris, Jenny, Nikki, Jeremy, Leonda, Jace-lynn, Caston, Dana, Lyndon, Lacey, Trevor, and Manda (who gave her the nickname “Hotdog” as a child when she couldn’t say “Rhonda,” and because Rhonda was always eating hotdogs — a name that stuck and was later shortened to “Hottie”).
She also had many grandchildren, including her special grandsons Malachi, Aiden, Toby, Bronson, Ezra, Blu, Tripp, Elias, AJ and Troy, and her special granddaughters Anaya, Kaylee, Lily, Ellie, Emma, Big Ellie, Big Emma, and Bailey, who brought her immense pride and joy.
Rhonda grew up in Quincy, Washington until her early teen years, where she formed cherished friendships and deep family connections that stayed with her throughout her life. She later moved back to Saskatchewan, where she established her life, built her home, and formed the relationships and community that shaped her adulthood. The connections she made in both places remained close to her heart.
Rhonda spent 30 years as a teacher’s assistant with Regina Public Schools, working at Judge Bryant, Connaught, Wascana, Imperial, and Ferguson. She was deeply respected by students, staff, and families for her patience, kindness, and steady presence. Through her years with Regina Public Schools, she built lasting friendships with colleagues who became like family and remained close to her heart.
Rhonda was also a beloved CUPE Local 3766 warrior, sharing her strength, kindness, and courage with all who crossed her path. She played an integral role within her union, serving on the Executive and many committees over the past 10 years. Her commitment to advocacy, fairness, and care for others was evident in all that she did, both in her workplace and in her community.
Rhonda loved celebrating all holidays—especially Christmas—and found great joy in dressing up, embracing fun, and sharing laughter. She loved movies and going to the theatre, and Star Wars was one of her favourites, bringing her great happiness and reflecting her playful spirit. Rhonda remained a kid at heart, carrying a beautiful childlike innocence that brought light and joy to those around her.
Pallbearers will be Jeremy Akan, Trevor Rockthunder, Dylan Worm, Koda Wolfe, AJ Ryles, and Aaron Crowe.
Honorary Pallbearers will be her mother’s siblings: Albert, Darlene, and Willie, and Bernice, Alfred, Terry, Joe, Donald, and Noreen, who all held a special place in her heart.
Rhonda’s legacy lives on through the children she raised in love, the family she held close, the workers she stood beside, and the laughter and joy she shared so freely. She also helped reunite our family, reminding us that life is short and teaching us the importance of forgiveness, compassion, and holding one another close.
We thank everyone for their prayers, love, and support during this difficult time.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made directly to Judge Bryant School or by eTransfer to
judgebryantscc@gmail.com.
Wake will be held Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 4 pm in the Old Gym, George Gordon First Nation. A Celebration of Life including a community meal will be held in the same location the following morning, Wednesday, January 14, at 11:00 am. All are welcome.
Following cremation, there will be an invitation at a later date to join Rhonda's family for a ceremonial scattering of ashes.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Conley Funeral Home, Raymore, SK, (306) 746-1000