Obituary of Vincent Patrick Meguinis

Osawkisinayw Ahci (Old Man Yellow Mountain) Vincent Patrick Meguinis, beloved spouse of Tanneia Ear left from Tsuu T’ina peacefully and began his spirit journey on Tuesday, June 20, 2006 at the age of 35. He was the loving father of Morningstar and Dillon. He was born at the Grace Hospital in Calgary, Alberta on January 3, 1971. He was the oldest son of Harvey and Shirley Meguinis. Besides his wife, children and parents, Vincent is survived by his brother Travis (Sheryl) and sister Janil (Tim) and nephews, Austin, Seth and Colby, Godson Maylin, numerous relatives and his special friends Solo, Angel, Yoda and Sugar Raunchy. He was predeceased by his grandmother Emily Meguinis, his uncle Steve Pasquayak, the elders who mentored him, including Sam Simon, Dave Jacobs, Robert Dodginghorse, Joe Big Plume and other relatives and friends, including his horses Sugar and Big Red. Vincent attended LeRoi Daniels Elementary, Fairview Junior High, St. Stephen’s Junior High, Lord Beaverbrook High School, Mount Royal College and SAIT. Notably, his parents careers provided him with the opportunity to attend Saddle Lake Elementary, while his father was Chief of Police for the Saddle Lake First Nation, and Chula Vista Elementary in San Diego, California, while they took training. Vincent, of Tsuu T’ina (Sarcee) and Cree heritage, was very proud to be Tsuu T’ina. However, at the same time, his strong traditional upbringing taught him to be humble and to be respectful. In addition to the Native traditional ways, Vincent also believed strongly in the Catholic Church and its teachings. As a spouse, father, uncle, brother, nephew, cousin, grandson and friend, Vincent was kind hearted, caring and considerate. He was well known for his ability to find humour in every situation and to brighten a room with his trademark laughter. He loved his children, Morningstar and Dillon, immensely and they were the priority in his life. He took pride in their accomplishments, in all areas: powwow, rodeo, hockey, school, etc. Vincent, or ‘Bro’ and ‘Brother’, as he was known to his brother and sister, also accepted, and expertly performed, the role and responsibility of older brother to which they will always be thankful. His baby brother Travis especially thanks him for exemplifying courage and bravery by ‘paving the road’ as an older warrior brother. As the first born son to his parents, Shirley and Harvey, he was their pride and joy and will always remain so. As the first born grandson or ‘Ostay se maw’, Vincent, or ‘My Grandson’ or ‘My Boy’, as he was known to his grandparents, will be missed for his thoughtfulness and for the companionship he provided, especially with his ‘Dad’ at Stampede Park or Shanks. Vincent’s numerous cousins and friends, or ‘Cuz’ or ‘Bro’ as they know him, will forever remember his kindness and humour. Vincent’s skills found him employed in many areas. He worked for Wolf Flat’s Ordinance Disposal locating explosives, the Calgary Public School Board as a Native Liaison and was also self-employed. However, his most memorable work experience may have been as an actor in ‘Don’t Call Me Tonto’, ‘Into the West’ and ‘Shanghai Noon’. Vincent was an excellent athlete. He excelled in hockey, as a goalie, winning many individual awards and team championships for Tsuu T’ina and other First Nations. He also participated in golf and rodeo, as a saddle bronc rider and bull dogger, at many Indian Day celebrations. The Spirit of the Drum also brought Vincent to attend and participate in Native powwows. He was a champion Fancy Dancer on the powwow circuit when he was younger, attending powwows all over North America. He also enjoyed travelling with the drum and singing. He enjoyed participating in the annual Tsuu T’ina powwow and Calgary Stampede. Special acknowledgement to his spiritual mentors Grandpa Mike, Fred Eagle Tail, Arthur One Spot, Grandma Katie Dodginghorse, Chief Clifford Big Plume and his grandparents (as well as godparents) Mr. and Mrs. Prosper Pasquayak and many other elders. Vincent’s name, ‘Old Man Yellow Mountain’ is symbolic and reflects his spirit as a strong protector. All who knew him appreciated his gift of healing with humour and kindness. He faced the challenges in his life as a warrior would, with courage, grace and finesse. Although he will be deeply missed, he has completed his time here and the Creator has called him home. The wake service will be held at the residence of Mike Meguinis Sr., Tsuu T’ina Nation beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, June 22, and continuing to Friday, June 23, 2006. Join the family in prayer and singing. Traditional ceremony at the same residence at 9:00 a.m., Saturday, June 24, 2006. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church, Tsuu T’ina Nation, Saturday, June 24, 2006 at 2:00 p.m. Interment to follow at the Tsuu T’ina Cemetery. Traditional feast to follow. In living memory of Vincent 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.