Memorials

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of Alfred (Alfie) Debassige who passed away July 18, 2007.
They say that there's a reason,
Yes you have done it all.
They say that time will heal,
But neither time nor reason,
Will change the way we feel.
For no one knows the heartache
That lies beneath our smiles.
No one knows how many times
We've broken down and cried.
We want to tell you something
Your family has great memories
Your community has flourished
So there won't be any doubt
You're so wonderful to think of,
But so hard to be without.
We cannot bring back the old days
When we were all together.
The family chain is broken now,
But memories live forever.
Sadly missed and always loved, Gladys, Gwen, Melissa, Wanda, Leif, Sheldon, Donald and grandchildren Sten, Maren and Davin.
Manitoulin Expositor, July 16, 2008

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of our Dad, Alfred C. Debassige of M'Chigeeng. July 18, 2007.
You live in the beautiful wind that blows,
You live in the sound of birds that crow,
You live in the sun that shines so bright,
You live in the peaceful dark at night.
You live in a start that brightens the sky,
You live in the Great Lakes I pass by.
You live in the sweetness of flowers and grass,
You live in the summer that goes so fast.
You live in my heart that misses your touch,
I want you to know, I love you so much.
I can be brave 'cause I know you're still here,
There is always a reminder you'll always be near.
You live in the kindness, another one sends...
You live on forever; your love never ends,
I miss you Dad, from the life that I knew.
Grant me acceptance of this new way with you,
Know that your legacy, pours out of me,
I hope you're as proud, as a Dad, ever could be...
Love, your (Me)lissa, Sheldon, and granddaughter Maren Kasunich, Calgary, Alberta.
Manitoulin Expositor, July 16, 2008

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of Alfred (Alfie) Debassige who passed away July 18, 2007.
He fought so hard to stay with us
He knew we'd miss him so
But God knew he was hurting
And said "It's time to go."
He suffered long without complaint
Oh yes, he paid his dues
He never once said "pity me"
Just smiled and saw it through.
His pain has stopped, the hurting done,
How we miss his dear sweet face.
God took his hand and led him home
He's in a better place.
Two years ago he left us
With fond memories ever more
We all know he will be waiting
On the other shore.
Missing you, love Gladys, Gwen, Leif, Sheldon, Melissa, Don, Wanda, and grandchildren.
Manitoulin Expositor, July 18, 2009

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of Bernice died February 19, 1979
A wonderful mother, woman and aid,
One who was better, God never made,
A wonderful worker, loyal and fair,
Tenderly helpful, O mother you were
Just in your judgment, always right,
Honest and liberal, ever upright
Loved by all, our pride they share,
Pride in the wonderful one you were
Lovingly remembered by husband Ernest Debassige & family
Manitoulin Expositor, February 13, 1980

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather, Bruno Debassige, who passed away February 25, 2007.
A year has passed
So lonely without you
We miss your ready smile and loving way.
Always ready to help and comfort.
You are sadly missed and always lovingly remembered in our hearts, Betty, Tony and family.
Manitoulin Expositor, February 20, 2008

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather, Bruno Debassige, who passed away February 25, 2007.
A year has passed
So lonely without you
We miss your ready smile and loving way.
Always ready to help and comfort.
You are sadly missed and always lovingly remembered in our hearts, Betty, Tony and family
Manitoulin Expositor, February 27, 2008

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of Bruno Debassige, February 25, 2006.
Are lives go on without you
But nothing is the same
We have to hide our heartaches
When someone speaks your name
Sad are the hearts that love you
Silent the tears that fall
Living our hearts without you
Is the hardest part of all.
You did so many things for us
Your heart was kind and true
And when we needed someone
We could always count on you.
The special years will not return
When we are all together
But with the love within our heart
You will walk with us forever.
Love from your wife Betty, Tony, Mel and grandkids Asia and Nathan. Elaine and family, Dan and family, Rene and family, Duncan and family.
Manitoulin Expositor, February 25, 2009

DEBASSIGE (Gaikezheyongai)--In loving memory of a dear loving wife, mother, sister and daughter-in-law, (Pam) Catherine Winnifred.
It's been one year,
Since you've left that early morning on August 13th
The sadness still so fresh in our hearts
That there's not a day that you're
Not thought about
Or that we don't speak your name
But then reality comes crashing down
And we know that you're gone
Out tears and prayers can't bring you back
So our prayer is that you're
Free from pain
And God is taking care of you
You did not want to leave us
And we feel your presence always near
We know you share our laughter
We know you'll dry our tears through the good times
And bad times
You will walk beside us through the years
You will always be a part of our lives
--Always cherished in our hearts and never be forgotten, Mike, Linda, Cristal, Josette and Lewis Debassige.
Manitoulin Expositor, August 22, 2001

ENOSSE-DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of a dear daughter Elaine who passed away January 14, 2002.
A year ago you left
Everyday your candle burns
Your voice, your smile
Live in my heart
It hurts so much, I cry
Jesus came
When we were not looking
He took your hand
and lead you home
I know
You are in a better place
But I still miss you
and David, too.
--Lovingly remembered by Mom
Manitoulin Expositor, January 8, 2003

ENOSSE-DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of a dear sister and loving aunt Elaine who passed away January 14, 2002.
Even though you're gone
I remember the lesson you taught
Never, never give up on your dreams
You never did
I miss you, Elaine
--Forever in our hearts Zoey, Jim, Trisha and Stacy.
Manitoulin Expositor, January 8, 2003

ENOSSE-DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of a dear daughter Elaine who passed away January 14, 2002.
A year ago you left
Everyday your candle burns
Your voice, your smile
Live in my heart
It hurts so much, I cry
Jesus came
When we were not looking
He took your hand
and lead you home
I know
You are in a better place
But I still miss you
and David, too.
--Lovingly remembered by Mom
Manitoulin Expositor, January 15, 2003

ENOSSE-DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of a dear sister and loving aunt Elaine who passed away January 14, 2002.
Even though you're gone
I remember the lesson you taught
Never, never give up on your dreams
You never did
I miss you, Elaine
--Forever in our hearts Zoey, Jim, Trisha and Stacy.
Manitoulin Expositor, January 15, 2003

DEBASSIGE--In memory of Francis Xavier Debassige who passed away Valentine's Day, February 14, 2004 at the age of 74 years old.
Last year on Valentine's Day the good Lord blessed your soul away.
It's been a year without you here.
Your heart is with us as if you were near.
Missing you - Love, your grand and great grandchildren, Cher, Kai, Nea, Dream and family.
Manitoulin Expositor, February 9, 2005

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of Gus.
Your presence we miss,
Your memory we treasure;
Loving you always,
Forgetting you never.
Lovingly remembered by his wife Loretta, daughter Janette (Ken), son Blair, grandchildren Ramona (Darren), Jeremy (Lenora), Dakota, Raven, Brittany, Kenessa, and great-grandchildren Emma, Tyler and Shield.
Manitoulin Expositor, November 12, 2008

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of a dear father and grandfather, James D. Debassige, who left us June 19, 1994.
You left us quietly,
Your thoughts unknown,
But left us a memory,
We are proud to own.
So treasure him Lord,
In your garden of rest,
For when on earth,
He was one of the best.
--Darren, Jessie, Dawn and Bear.
Manitoulin Expositor, June 27, 2001

In loving memory of Mishoomis John DEBASSIGE who passed away April 29, 2001.
There is someone who misses you sadly,
And finds the year long since you went,
There is someone who thinks of you often,
But tries to be brave and content.
--Loved and missed by Richard, Sheila, Sabrina and RJ.
Manitoulin Expositor, April 24, 2002

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of "Mishoomis," John, who passed away April 29, 2001.
We thought of you as our Mishoomis too.
--Kim. Bev, Troy and Chase.
Manitoulin Expositor, April 24, 2002

DEBASSIGE, Josephine R.--In loving memory of Josephine R. Debassige (nee Shigwadja) who passed away on May 23, 2003.
How many times did you struggle in life,
To take care of your children in spite of the strife.
You sacrificed yourself to provide for us all,
Never complaining - you stood very tall.
We daydreamed of riches so we could build you a home,
And a heavenly garden of your very own,
With roses and arbors and a waterfall too.
Oh, how we did wish we could have done this for you.
You now have a mansion on streets paved with gold,
No pain and sorrow...feeling young and not old.
We couldn't have asked for a more loving mother,
Who gave so unselfishly...like no other.
We will miss you so very much through the years,
And at holiday time we will shed many tears.
We know where you are mom, you're up there with Jesus,
Who never forsakes us and never will leave us.
He will comfort us now as we miss your soft touch,
For He knows how much we loved you...oh so very much.
Be happy there mom, and don't worry about us.
We will help each other - without making a fuss.
We will be okay mom...we will see you again soon,
Up there in heaven...only He knows when.
Love you forever, Denise.
Manitoulin Expositor, May 19, 2004

DEBASSIGE, Josephine--In loving memory of my dear mother and friend Josephine Debassige whom God called home on May 23, 2003.
Those we love don't go away,
They walk beside us everyday.
Unseen, unheard, but always near,
Still loved, still missed and very dear.
Just as you were you will always be,
That wonderful loving mother that God gave me.
Someday mom, and only God knows when
We'll be together again .
In our Father's home above
Where we'll thank him for His mercy
And praise him for his love!
Sadly missed and loving you forever, Brenda and Roc, OXO.
Manitoulin Expositor, May 26, 2004

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of my dear mother Josephine R. Debassige (Shigwadja), who passed away May 23, 2003.
Dear Lord:
If lilacs grow in heaven,
Please pick a bunch for me.
Place them in my Mother's arms
And tell her they're from me.
Tell her that I love her and miss her very much
Then place a kiss upon her cheek
And hold her for a while.
Because remembering her is easy,
I do it every day.
But there is an ache within my hear
That will never go away.
Sadly missed and always remembered, by daughter Denise.
Manitoulin Expositor, May 21, 2008

JIMENEZ-DEBASSIGE, Kayla Patricia--In loving memory of Kayla Patricia Jimenez-Debassige. January 28, 1995 - September 1, 2003.
Our darling Kayla has gone to the Angels Above;
Where there's nothing but Happiness, Joy and Love.
Polishing stars and making them shimmer,
A job for an Angel we can only remember.
Forming each snowflake each one unique;
Parting the clouds to take a peek.
Whatever you're doing sweet Angel above,
We think of you always, and hold you in love.
You're safe and secure in Our Father's Hands;
We're missing you so, but he understands.
And like the stars or snowflakes,
You're one of a kind,
And loved by the family you left behind.
We'll watch for your stars to light up the night,
Till one day we'll be there to hold you tight.
Sadly missed, loving you forever, Love always, Auntie Brenda & Uncle Roc. xoxo
Manitoulin Expositor, September 1, 2004

JIMENEZ-DEBASSIGE, Kayla Patricia--In loving memory of Kayla Patricia Jimenez-Debassige, born January 28, 1995, died September 1, 2003.
Mommy please don't look so sad, mommy please don't cry,
Because I am in the arms of Jesus and He sings me lullabies.
Please try not to question God, don't think of him as unkind.
Don't think He sent me to you, and then changed his mind.
You see, I am a Special Child, and I am needed up above,
I'm the special gift you gave Him, I am the product of your love.
I'll always be there with you. Watch the sky at night.
Find the brightest star that's gleaming, that's my halo's brilliant light.
You will see me in the morning frost, that mists your windowpane.
That's me, in the summer showers, I'll be dancing in the rain.
When you feel a gentle wind that blows,
That's me, I'll be planting a kiss on your nose.
When you see a child playing, and your heart feels a little tug,
That's me, I'll be there, giving your heart a hug.
So mommy, please don't look so sad, mommy please don't cry.
I'm in the arms of Jesus, and he sings me lullabies.
Deeply missed and always remembered by Auntie Denise (Dee).
Manitoulin Expositor, September 1, 2004

DEBASSIGE--In memory of Uncle Lloyd who left us for the Spirit world September 19, 2007.
God saw you getting tired
And a cure was not to be,
So he put his arms around you
And whispered "Come with me".
Morning coffee is not the same
Without your teasing and thoughts of the day,
But our hearts fill with smiles as we mention all
The things you used to do and say.
And although you are no longer there to
Guide the boys in the jobs they have to do,
Your memory helps them keep it up
And all the jobs pull through.
We hold you close within our hearts
And there you will remain,
To walk with us throughout our lives,
Until we meet again.
Lovingly remembered and missed everyday...
Menesa, Wally, Shanna, Curtis, Landon, Jeff and Denice.
Manitoulin Expositor, September 17, 2008

DEBASSIGE--In memory of a husband, father and grandfather, Lloyd Debassige, September 19, 2007.
Of all the many blessings,
However great or small
To have had you in our life,
Was the greatest gift of all.
We thought of you with love today but that is nothing new,
We thought about you yesterday and days before that too
We think of you in silence, we often speak your name,
All we have are memories and your picture in a frame
Your memory is our keepsake, with which we will never part,
God has you in his keeping; we have you in our heart.
The family chain is broken now,
And nothing seems the same
But as God takes us one by one,
The chain will link again.
Sadly missed, lovingly remembered, Lillian, Billy, Patty, Georgia, Billie Jean, Jolene.
Manitoulin Expositor, September 17, 2008

DEBASSIGE--In memory of Grandpa Lloyd, September 19, 2007.
Grandpa!
I can still hear you call me
In my mind
We miss you dearly
It's quiet without you
The water tank is cold
Sometimes empty
Chips and cheezies
Your cap sits upon the Shelf, waiting
Work boots fill with mud
Tires turn in the sand
Another bucket
Another load
The sound of machines in the land
Your chair is empty
Remote on the floor
Soup is getting cold
The door slams
The clock ticks
Buzzer sounds
Coffee brews and smoke rises
We hear you call
We love you and
We miss you
Grandpa!
Sadly missed by granddaughters Georgia, Billie Jean, and Jolene.
Manitoulin Expositor, September 17, 2008

DEBASSIGE-In memory of husband, father, and special grandfather, Lloyd Debassige, who left us on September 19, 2007.
God saw you were getting tired, when a cure was not to be,
He closed his arms around you and whispered, “come to Me.”
In tears we saw you sinking,
We watched you fade away.
Our hearts were almost broken, you fought so hard to stay.
But when we saw you sleeping so peacefully free from pain,
We could not wish you back to suffer so again.
So keep your arms around him Lord, and give him special care.
Make up for all he suffered and all that seemed unfair.
You left us beautiful memories,
Your love is still our guide,
And though we cannot see you,
You are always at our side.
A light from our household is gone,
A voice from our love is stilled,
A place in our vacant home,
Which never can be filled.
Some may think you are forgotten,
Though on earth you are no more,
But in our hearts and memory you are with us
As you always were before.
Lovingly missed always,
Lillian, Billy, Patty and girls.
Manitoulin Expositor, September 16, 2009

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of Lucy Shirley Lovell Debassige, September 18, 2008.
Dearly missed by many.
Manitoulin Expositor, September 23, 2009

DEBASSIGE--In memory of Lucy Debassige-Lovell, August 4, 1949 - September 18, 2008.
Ever close in mind and heart!
No further away than a picture,
A smile or remembered phrase,
I remember you every day.
So close in so many ways
How often does a sunset bring
Nostalgic thought to mind
Of moments that we shared in
Days now left behind
Very often a flower or a
Crystal blue sky brings
Beautiful recollections of our
Times together.
All our love, Joyce, Nelson, Richard, Brent Debassige.
Manitoulin Expositor, September 23, 2009

DEBASSIGE--Norman
Norman knew he was going to go soon; as he mentioned, you bring me home here. The real sad part for me was, when Norman was taken out from his home. I got all choked up. His sons, Donald, Bonnie and Junior left home here too. You are in the Spirit World with them.
--This is Elizabeth.
Manitoulin Expositor, August 2, 2000

DEBASSIGE-In loving memory of a dear husband, Norman, who passed away July 20, 2000.
The one I loved has gone to rest,
His fond true heart is still;
The hand that always helped me
Now lies in death's cold chill.
--Sadly missed and always remembered by wife Elizabeth and Family.
Manitoulin Expositor, July 18, 2001

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of a dear brother, Norman, who passed away one year ago, July 20, 2000:
There is a bridge of memories
From here to heaven above
That keeps you very close to us
It's called a bridge of love
As time goes on without you
And days turn into years,
They hold a million memories
And a thousand silent tears.
To us you were very special
What more is there to say,
Except to wish with all our hearts,
That you were here today.
--Sadly missed and always remembered by sister Beatrice and family.
Manitoulin Expositor, July 18, 2001

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of a dear father, grandfather, Norman who passed away on July 20, 2000.
He fought so hard to stay with us
He knew we'd miss him so
But God knew he was hurting
And said it's time to go.
He suffered long without complaint
Oh yes, he paid his dues
He never once said "pity me"
Just smiled and saw it through.
His pain has stopped, the hurting done,
How we miss his dear sweet face
God took his hand and led him home
He's in a better place.
Two years ago he left us
With fond memories ever more
We all know he will be waiting
On the other shore.
--Sadly missed and always remembered by Arnold, Lorraine, Rhonda, Robin and Amber.
Manitoulin Expositor, July 17, 2002

DEBASSIGE, Norman
April 30th "Reminiscing Norman Debassige"
Norman coached Minor Hockey for nine seasons, which were Pee-Wee, Bantams and Midgets teams. "Those were the days."
"West Bay" mostly went to Sheg, as we didn't have the arena then.
The school bus was driven by the late Ernest Debassige, and it was full. What else can you say.
Norman was a "Hockey Hero".
Elizabeth Debassige
Manitoulin Expositor, July 17, 2002

DEBASSIGE--In loving memory of Norman A. who passed away July 20, 2000.
Two years have passed since
you have gone to the spirit world and
it feels that you are still near
I guess this is what it feels like
When you're family misses you so dear.
--Sadly missed always, Wayne, Heather, Jeanine Debassige.
Manitoulin Expositor, July 17, 2002

DEBASSIGE, Rose--March 13, 1920 - April 5, 2003
From your loving grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
We once had something so special
That money could not buy
We had our love
Our memories and your photos
Are all we have left to touch
A very special Grandma
Who we miss so much
And when we are feeling lonely
And tears fill our eyes
We think of you at peace
And try not to cry
We hide our heartache
As you would want us to
So when we cry our tears alone
No one knows but you
Our hearts still ache
As we whisper low
God Bless you Grandma
We miss you so.
All our love,
Pamela, Carmen, Andrew and Debassige Families
Manitoulin Expositor, April 21, 2004

DEPATIE-In loving memory of a dear daughter Patsy Depatie who passed away August 22, 1971.
When evening shadows are falling
And we sit in quiet alone
To our hearts there comes a longing
If she could only come home.
To now we never said good-bye
Will always bring regrets
But the heart’s that loved you dearly
Will never forget.
Friends may think we have forgotten
When at times they see us smile
But they little know the heartache
Our smiles hide all the while.
Oft and Oft our thoughts do wander
To the grave not far away
Where we laid our dear daughter
Just two year’s ago to-day.
Sadly missed and lovingly remembered by Mom and Dad, sisters, Debbie, Carol, Sharon and Sandra.
Memoriam, publication not submitted
Transcribed by Marilyn Irish

DERRO, Betty Evelyn (Taylor), who passed away two years ago Dec. 18, 1999.
Along the road of yesterday,
That leads me straight to you,
Are memories of happy days,
Together we once knew,
And sometimes in the evening,
I seem to have a way,
Of wandering back to meet you,
On the road of yesterday,
In all that life has given me,
And all that's left to do,
I will never have a greater gift,
Than the years I spent with you.
--Lovingly remembered, sister Nellie.
Manitoulin Expositor, December 19, 2001

DERRO--Betty Evelyn (Taylor) who left us three years ago, my beloved sister.
As the Angels sang Amazing Grace
The Lord came down and touched your face
He held your hands and whispered low
"Come with Me, Betty it's time to go."
The gates of Heaven opened wide,
The Angels lined up side by side.
A special gift was on its way,
The day God took my Sister away.
--Her memory is with me always,
Nellie
Manitoulin Expositor, December 18, 2002

DESMOULIN--In loving memory of Natashia Jill Antoinette Desmoulin, who went home with the Creator, Sunday, October 1, 2006.
I’m Free
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free
I’m following the path God laid for me.
I took His hand when I heard Him call;
I turned my back and left it all.
I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way;
I found that place at the close of day.
If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss;
Ah yes, these things, I too will miss.
Be not burdened with times of sorrow
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life’s been full, I savored much;
Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch.
Perhaps my time seems all to brief;
Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me now, He set me free.
BaamaampiI Ka Waabmigoo, Gizaagigoo, Natashia. From your Mom and Melissa and your nieces Faith, Breanne and Hope.
Manitoulin Expositor, October 3, 2007

DEVER--In memory of a dear husband, father and grandfather, Clifford Daniel Dever, who passed away April 18, 1979.
“Silent thoughts of years together
Hold memories that will last forever.”
Sadly missed by wife Evelyn and family.
Manitoulin Expositor, April 16, 1980

Clipart and background from: J. O. D's Old Fashioned B & W Clip Art Collection