John Robert Yellowback

It is with great sadness, the family announce the passing of John Robert Yellowback aka ‘JR’ on Monday, July 13th. 2020 at the St. Boniface Hospital in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

John was born in God’s Lake on October 19th, 1945. He was raised by his parents Elias and Sophola Yellowback and by his grandparents Mike and Sarah Yellowback. John grew up enriched by what he was taught by his parents and grandparents and transcended into the life he had. He was a trapper, hunter and fisherman. John also attended the residential schools in Assiniboine and in Cross Lake. He continued his studies in Winnipeg and successfully completed a Community Economic Development program at the University of Manitoba. John held various positions which included Band Administration, God’s River Band Store Manager, God’s River Lodge Manager. His political career first started when he was elected as Councillor of Manto Sipi Cree Nation where he served on and off for almost 20 years. In 1994, he was elected Chief of Manto Sipi Cree Nation where he served approximately 7 years. Another highlight of his political career was in his successful election as Tribal Chief for Keewatin Tribal Council. John was instrumental in the development of Manto Sipi Cree Nation.

The most important part of his life was the gift of his grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. He held each and every one of them in very high regard.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years Sarah; daughters, Rebecca, Arlene (Dulas), Eliza (Michael), Jessie; sons, Michael (Jackie), Auggie (Fiona); sisters, Delia, Gladys, Cecilia (Wesley) plus numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, cousins, nephews and nieces.

The family would like to thank the Dialysis Unit at Seven Oaks General Hospital for 8 years our father had his dialysis treatment.

Viewing Services will be held at the Eternal Grace Funeral Home on Thursday, July 16th, 2020, from 7pm-10pm  in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Wake Services will be held at the Sarah Yellowback’s residence in God’s River on Friday, July 17th, 2020, Saturday, July 18th, 2020 and Sunday, July 19th, 2020.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, July 20th, 2020 at the Manto Sipi Community Hall with Pastor Marcel Okemow officiating.

Interment to follow at the Manto Sipi Cree Nation Cemetery.

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