Obituary
In Loving Memory of
Dr. Blake Randolph Debassige
June 22, 1956 – June 13, 2022
Blake was many things to many people – a humble man who was very proud of all his family, an Ojibwe elder, an internationally recognized and respected artist in the style of the Woodland School and co-owner of Kasheese Studios Art Gallery with his wife Shirley Cheechoo. Blake was a talented and passionate teacher, a creative problem solver who always found a way forward, a sought-after DJ and music aficionado, a lover of the outdoors, a person who did his best to live according to the traditional teachings of his elders. He was a treasured friend of our family for almost 30 years.
Blake was born June 22, 1956, in M’Chigeeng First Nation.
He was 65 years of age when he started his journey into the spirit world at his residence early Monday morning, June 13, 2022.
Blake was the son of Pauline Debassige and the late Chief James David Debassige.
He started painting at 16 and became a world-renowned artist and Kasheese Studios Art Gallery co-owner. His art can be seen at the Canadian Museum of Civilization, McMichael Canadian art collection, Ojibway Cultural Foundation, Anderson Lake Spiritual Centre and Assembly of First Nations. Blake held many exhibits across the globe and was one of the founders of the Debajehmujig Theatre Group and the Weengushk Film Institute.
Blake is lovingly remembered by his wife Shirley,
son Nano (Nishina),
and granddaughter Nakoa.
Dear brother of Janet (Abby),
Kevin
and Cynthia (Allen).
He is survived by many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his father “Jimmy”,
brothers Richard and Darren,
sister Corrine,
niece Wanda
and nephew Derek.
Family and friends wanting to donate to the Art Scholarship Fund in his name at Weengushk Film Institute, send an e-transfer to festival@weengushkfilmfestival.ca
To send flowers
to the family or plant a tree
in memory of Dr. Blake Randolph Debassige, please visit our floral store.
A Memorial Tree was planted for Dr. Blake
We are deeply sorry for your loss – the staff at Island Funeral Home Limited O/O Simpson Funeral Home Limited
Join in honoring their life – plant a memorial tree
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Dr Blake Randolph Debassige June 22 1956 June 13 2022 (age 65)..
Death notice for the town of: Little Current, Province: Ontario