Obituary of Harvey Patrick Meguinis

Nipawiwin Paskwawimostos (Standing Buffalo), Harvey Patrick Meguinis, beloved husband of Shirley Meguinis left from the Tsuu T’ina Nation peacefully and began his spirit journey on Monday, August 27, 2007 at the age of 56. He was the loving father of Travis (Sheryl), Janil (Tim) and late Vincent (Tanneia). He was born in the mountains of Morley, Alberta on May 25, 1951. He was the oldest son of Mike and the late Emily Meguinis. Besides his wife, children and father, Harvey is survived by his brothers Michael (Violet) and David (Jackie) and sisters Norma (Earl) and Louise, adopted son Blair McHugh and beloved grandchildren Dillon, Morningstar, Austin, Seth, Colby, Darrias and Summer and numerous relatives. He was predeceased by his mother Emily Meguinis, his grandmothers Eva Cutknife and Bessie Meguinis, grandfather Samery Large, uncle Wilfred Large, brother-in-law Steve Pasquayak, his friends and co-workers, otherwise known as the Over-the-Hill Gang: David Crowchild, Jim Dodginghorse, Phillip Meguinis, Willy Little Bear, Sam Simon, George Heavenfire and Jim Simeon, and the elders who mentored him, including Eugene Steinhauer, Harry Dodginghorse, Hilda Big Crow, Walter Meguinis and Stanley Big Plume. Harvey, of Tsuu T’ina and Cree heritage, began his formal education at the Tsuu T’ina Nation day school and then went on to attend various schools in the City of Calgary. He also attended Drumheller High School where he met his beautiful wife Shirley. Following high school he underwent training for trades, including carpentry, as well as training for various occupations, including policing, youth development and counselling in the area of alcohol and drug addiction, being instrumental in establishing the Tsuu T’ina Spirit Healing Lodge on the reserve and also working at Poundmakers Lodge in St. Albert, Alberta. Most notably, Harvey provided his family with the opportunity to reside in San Diego, California, while he attended one such training for youth development at National City University. As a result of his education, Harvey had the opportunity to work as Chief of Police of the Tsuu T’ina Nation, the Saddle Lake First Nation and the Stoney Nation. Harvey was also devoted to improving the wellbeing and conditions of the Tsuu T’ina people. He worked in the areas of social and economic development on the Tsuu T’ina Nation until he was elected to the leadership of the Nation as a Minor Chief (member of Council). Notably, as a leader he was instrumental in the establishment of the Nation’s band office and schools. He stayed in the leadership position for the Nation for 18 years until he retired from office due to illness. Harvey will forever be remembered for his kindness, mischievous humour, his ability to motivate and mentor people in order to help them meet their full potential and to instil in his people to be proud of who they are and where they come from. He also had a love for sports of all kind. Harvey himself played football and hockey in high school. Later on, Harvey became an avid golfer. He was also well known, and had many friends, at Stampede Park and Shanks engaging in his favourite past time of betting on the horses. He will also be greatly missed by his children as he was their biggest fan as they participated in sports such as swimming, hockey, golf and rodeo. The grandchildren will also miss him as well as they became used to Harvey cheering them on as they made it to the next level on their Xbox games. Harvey’s traditional upbringing lead him to his strong belief in the traditional and spiritual ways of his people. He also believed in the Catholic Church and its teachings. His name “Standing Buffalo” is symbolic as it reflects his spirit as a strong protector and leader of his people. His people in Indian country are better for having been witness to his life on earth. Although he will be deeply missed, he has completed his time here and the Creator has called him home. Wake Services will be held at the residence of the late Harvey Meguinis (Tsuu T’ina Nation, AB) on Wednesday, August 29, 2007 and Thursday, August 20, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Services will be celebrated at Seven Chiefs Sportsplex (3700 Anderson Road S.W., Tsuu T’ina Nation) on Friday, August 31, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. Graveside Service to follow at Tsuu T’ina Cemetery (Tsuu T’ina Nation, AB). Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Harvey Meguinis, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W. Telephone: (403) 243-8200.