Lester Bouchard

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected, earthly departure of our Rock, Lester Louis “Podon” Bouchard. 
Podon will be eternally loved, missed and remembered by his wife of 41 years, Lorna, and their 8 children, 34 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren.

Melanie (Randy) Tibishkogijig; Rawnda (Wendell) Abraham; Dawnis (Douglas Jr) Sinoway; Lester Jr (Stephanie) Bouchard; Louis (Dawn) Bouchard; Randi Bouchard; Rosanna (Jeff) Quequish; Cheri Bouchard. 

Podon is survived by 8 siblings, Patrick (Anne Marie); Charlie (Julia); Norma “Patsy”; Michael “Boy”: Rodrick (Karon); Sheila; Larry ”Lory” (Shannon); sister in-laws Florence; Stella; and numerous nephews and nieces. 

Predeceased by his parents Norman and Josephine Bouchard; siblings Gladys, Murphy and Merle; grandson Denzell, nephews David, Vincent and Brandon; niece, Karla, and great-nephews, Tanner and Kemper. 

Podon was raised in Gull Bay First Nation. He was a survivor of the St. Joseph’s Residential School in Thunder Bay (Fort William), Ontario. Podon was a highway construction worker. Above all, he was a hunter, trapper, and fisherman who raised his kids and provided for his family. Podon enjoyed travelling to visit his family and friends and was a devoted Montreal Canadians fan. Podon was known for his quick wit and sense of humour and loved teasing and joking around with his family and friends. He loved to cruise around in his truck, listening to music, and stopping to talk with people. 

Traditional funeral ceremonies will take place in Gull Bay First Nation and in Fort William First Nation to allow his numerous family and friends to pay their respects. The Gull Bay FN funeral ceremony will take place on December 19 beginning at 1pm at the Community Hall. The Fort William FN funeral ceremony will be held at the Fort William FN Gymnasium, 200 Mission Road. Viewing and ceremonies will begin at 1 pm on December 20th through to 21st with final ceremony beginning at 10 am. Cremation will follow according to Podon’s wishes.