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It is with great sadness we announce the passing of our Mom, Granny and Jaban, Rachel Chakasim. Rachel passed away the early morning of March 11, 2022 at Timmins District Hospital, at the age of 70 years.
Rachel is survived by her children Kimberly (Richard), Claudia, Englebert (Lorraine), Sharon (Earl), and Selina; the grandchildren she raised Darrell, Presley, Juanita and her Jaban Emily; her many grandchildren, great grandchildren and her two great great grandchildren; her siblings Anastasia, Remi, Mike, Peter and Theresa; and many nieces and nephews. She is pre-deceased by her parents Joseph and Hannah Chakasim; her siblings Mary Louise, John, and Josephine; her daughter Stephanie and her grandchildren Lavina and Stephen.
As a child, Rachel attended St. Anne’s Residential School in Fort Albany, Ontario. When she was in her 40’s, the affects from her trauma at St. Anne’s caused her to vow to get help. In 1993 Rachel began her healing journey and maintained her sobriety right to the end. Throughout the years she became an advocate to create awareness of what took place at the Indian Residential School. Her message was not only of the trauma she experienced, but also of the importance of learning to forgive and heal.
Rachel was a hard worker who loved to learn, share, and give. She was an Educational Assistant, she worked at a women’s shelter, she was a qualified Personal Support Worker, she attended many healing workshop/conferences, she was a foster parent to many children, she was an Elder in many circles, and she loved to teach all ages what she knew.
Rachel is described by many as being a positive role model. She was known as “Granny” by many children even if they were not biologically related. She was also called "the scone dog lady”. She is well known for her famous scone dogs. She was also known for her generosity and giving away food for free.
Mom was proud of her family and celebrated any achievements they had. You would find her at family birthday parties, graduations, baby showers, weddings, and in hospital while grandchildren and Jabans were being born. Mom didn’t have a lot, but she always had something to give. The most precious gift was her time.
The family of Rachel Chakasim would like to thank you all for your love and support this past year. Mom expressed her gratitude many times for all the help she received from everyone. She left peacefully and ready to go.
Northern College will be establishing a bursary in honour of Elder Rachel Chakasim. If you would like to make a financial donation, you can contact Northern College (Moosonee or Timmins Site) to contribute to the bursary.
The family will receive friends and family on Tuesday, March 15, 2022 from 12:30 to 1:30 pm and a Celebration will follow in the chapel. Burial will take place in Moosonee on Friday, March 18, 2022.
Kih-chi Meegwetch.