The evening of June 14 saw a group of community members, White Bear Lake Resort cottagers, friends, and family honour Francis Lonechild. The appreciation evening, not a retirement supper, was organized to commemorate his 45 years of service to the White Bear Lake Resort.
Born and raised on the White Bear First Nation, he grew to be a beloved member of the community. He is a well respected elder and former Council member. He is a man who welcomes all with a smile. He began working at the resort in maintenance in 1968. By 1971 he had trained in resort management at Riding Mountain Provincial Park. Lonechild was then able to work his way into becoming manager. Through his commitment and hard work the resort has prospered.
It is his kind and caring ways that has made him a quintessential figure at the White Bear Lake Resort. Bev Thompson, one of the organizers of the appreciation evening, said "He is a kind, level headed man who deals with problems in a quiet and gentle way. He is just such a good person."
The appreciation evening and pot luck was held at the White Bear Post Secondary. For a Thursday night event an impressive number, over 100 people, attended. Great food and entertainment came together to honour this great man.
The meal was blessed by Rev. John Bullas, while presentations were made by Pendleton Blanket with Harry and Joyce Farrow on behalf of the cottagers.
An honour song was performed for Francis by T.J. McArthur as well as J.R. and Brent McArthur. Dedicating their performance to a man, though not their father, they call Dad. It was a beautiful piece that captured the attention of the entire audience.
Entertainment was provided by Dianne Twietmeyer whose unique rendition of the Ghost Buster's theme song was well accepted. With the cottagers singing along that they would call Francis if a problem was present. His family, however, sang a section telling him to not pick up the phone. Great fun and enjoyment was had by all.
Lonechild's daughter Annette said thank you on behalf of the family and spoke about her father. Stating he is a spiritual and traditional man. Not only did he raise his own children with these values, but he helped instill them in many others in the area. The love and respect of many are therefore shown in addressing him as Dad. He is an inspiring man who has had positive experiences interacting with many people.
In the end Lonechild spoke about time spent working for the resort. He reminisced over much of his time there. He took the moment to talk about his service to the area, but also about his friendships that he made along the way. The lives Lonechild has touched was evident in the amount of people who ensured they could be there with him that evening. Though his message was heartfelt and tender, his great sense of humour shone through.
"Everybody had a good night." Thompson explained. "The socializing of cultures was such an amazing experience. The boys drumming were great and chose the perfect song to tribute to him." It was a great evening that honoured a man who continues to make the resort a community.
