Steven Juston Marcel Tabobondung, Ogichi-day-wey-win Ginew/ Big hearted Golden Eagle, 71, Ahmik dodem, of Wasauksing First Nation, passed away on September 13, 2021 at his home after a courageous battle with cancer.

Steve aka Scuba was born in Parry Sound to Jane Pegahmagabow and was also raised by his grandmother Lucy Tabobondung. Growing up he was surrounded by his many aunties and uncles. He was the proud father of: Justen, Rebeka (David Shilling), and Dallas (Cassandra Agowissa) and Mishomis to Zeegwon Shilling-Tabobondung and his dog Chloe. He grew up in beautiful Wasauksing First Nation with his many siblings: Eva Jane (Allan Stiles), Corrine, Robin, Laura (Gord McKay) Richard (Wendy Pegahmagabow) and late siblings Carol and Percy Pegahmagabow. Other brothers and sisters: Dennis Tabobondung, Peggy Hupfield and Eldridge Miller. Steve was uncle to: Rachel, Frank, Terry, Benjamin, Nathan, Kandice, Kimberley and his late niece Jen Pegahmagabow. He was dear cousin and friend to the whole Baker, Hupfield and Rice families and many more. He grew up surrounded by his aunties and uncles: Auntie Soda (Aileen), Audrey, Clara, Stella, Nellie, and Uncle Alfred, and Andy.

As a teen, he loved spending his time with friends, family and playing ball. He is also fondly remembered as Steve-Knocka-Homa! As he got older, he expressed his passion for painting and art studying at Mohawk College. Steve loved adventure, travel, meeting people and listening to their stories while sharing many of his own. He saw the best in people and walked in laughter, compassion, dignity, and non-judgment. Steve loved his community and worked there for many years including at the Fish Farm and as a caring and trusted Wasauksing school bus driver. He also co-ran a group home for children in Merrit B.C. While life included struggles, Steve was able to find the strength to overcome challenges and spent his later years enjoying a peaceful and fun life. Being a kind father and Mishomis was of the utmost importance to Steve.

Steve is now making his Journey to the Spirit world where he will be met by many loved ones. We thank him for the many gifts he left us and we’re sorry we could not name everyone who touched his life. Miigwetch and sending our deepest love, prayers and gratitude to our family and community.

A sacred Fire has been lit at auntie Eva-Jane Stiles at 1808 Lane J, Wasauksing First Nation and will last until Friday morning with sunrise ceremonies happening each day. His service will take place on Friday, September 17th at the Wasauksing United Church, followed by burial ceremony at the cemetery, and a celebration of life at 1:00pm at the Wasauksing Rink. Due to COVID only light refreshments will be served.

Donations welcome to the Parry Sound Friendship Centre Building Fund, the Wasauksing Health Station, and Indian Residential School Survivors Society.

“You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you’ll find you get what you need.” The Rolling Stones

Condolences

Sending love for your loss. ❤

Brother you’ll be missed but you are in no more pain and soon you’ll be crossing over to the side and those ancestors are preparing for arrival
As we are preparing for journey
We always looked up to for guidance and support which you gave to us freely with you love and support
I’ll miss our talks and laughs and these will stay in that place in my heart
Until we meet Ohichi-Day-Wey-win-Ginew I’m so happy to have been one of sisters
Give bugs and kisses when you cross to our Mom, Gram, Percy, Chubby, Jacquie and Arthur Aunties, Uncles and family and friends
You’ll have many stories and laughs to share I can hear the laughter
Baa Maa Pii our beautiful brother 🤗🤗🤗🤗

So sorry to hear prayers 🙏to the families may he RIP

Sending condolences to all of Wasauksing where I had the honour to spend time with Steve .. sending love and light to all Har family and friends to cushion during this time of transition.

We are so sorry to hear of Steve's passing. The love he had for Dallas was a pleasure to witness, and though we do not know his other children, am certain it was the same for them. Our thoughts are with his family.
Cindy and Brad ( Joe) Profit.

Sorry to hear of your loss. Have a wonderful journey Steve.