Larry Kabestra Sr.
Waabano-anang zhigo Gebekiniganang wiinzowinan.
Makwa odoodeman.
Sunrise: September 18, 1948
Sunset: May 30, 2023
It is with great sadness, the Kabestra family announces the passing of Larry Kabestra Sr. He was surrounded by family as he began his journey to the next world.
Larry was born at St. Joseph's Hospital to parents, Robert (Bob) Kabestra and Flora Kabestra (nee McLeod). He now joins his parents, brother, Paul Kabestra, Sr., grandparents Anthony McLeod and Liza McLeod (Shebagegit) in the spirit world.
Larry spent his early years growing up on the Winnipeg River. He was an expert fisherman, hunter, trapper and guide. He attended school at St. Margaret’s Residential School in Couchiching First Nation and St. Mary’s Residential School in Rat Portage.
In his 40’s, he completed his Economic and Community Development degree from the University of Manitoba. This was an accomplishment he was very proud of and blazed a trail for his kids to strive to achieve higher education.
Larry was able to maintain his first language, Anishinaabemowin, and was very proud to share his special gifts, cultural teachings and language with anyone who would ask, especially children in the community. He was a teacher to all who made the time to learn.
Anyone who knew Larry, knew of his amazing work ethic, leadership qualities, generosity, humour, storytelling and outgoing personality. These qualities and skills helped him to become a young leader at age 29 as Chief of Dalles First Nation. Larry and his family helped re-establish the reserve where it is today, something he took great pride in. His love for his community was strong until the end.
In his later years, he spent his time fishing, playing cards, trips to play at casinos (Lucky Larry and Fives were his faves!), cruises to town for coffee and time with his with his beloved pet dog, Wally. He loved his community very much and did all he could to support its’ development.
Left to celebrate his memories are his siblings: Theresa Kabestra, Florence Johnson and Margaret Mancheese (Joe). He leaves behind a great legacy in his children: Susan Hamilton (Toby), Celina Blackhawk (Gerald), Tina Kabestra-Sparks (Ray) and favourite son, Larry (porkchop) Kabestra Jr.
Larry had great love for his grandchildren: Fabian, Justin, Mason, Kainin, Alexis and his great-grandchildren: Onyx, James, Talia and Bryston.
Larry was blessed with many nieces and nephews and cousins, from all over Treaty #3 territory, too many to name.
The family is grateful for all the love and support provided by Wiigwas Elder and Senior Care Home, Lake of the Woods District Hospital, Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation Chief and Council and community members.
Wake services will begin at 11:00am on Friday, June 2nd, 2023 at the Niisaachewan Economic Centre of Excellence, 22 Band Office Rd, Niisaachewan Anishinaabe Nation. Funeral services will begin at 11:00am on Saturday, June 3rd with Elder Peter Atkinson conducting a traditional ceremony.
Pallbearers are Ray Sparks, Thunder Bird, Derek Ogden, Marvin Roulette, Josh Kabestra and Justin Kabestra. Honourary Pallbearers are Josephine Klyne, Fabian Blackhawk, Richard Sugutch and Sherman Kabestra Sr. and his friends at Wiigwas.
At the request of the family artificial flowers are graciously declined, fresh flowers would be greatly appreciated.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com for the Kabestra Sr. family.
