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It is with a profound sense of loss that we announce the passing of Marvin Joseph Sinclair, affectionately known as Marv to his friends and loved ones. Born on June 28, 1958, in Kenora, Ontario, Marv’s journey through life came to a close on March 21, 2024, in Thunder Bay at the age of 65.
Marvin will be remembered by his partner Roxanne Miller of 20 years; his children Nathan, Crystal, Matilda, Mikayla, Darryl, Sadie, Isaiah, Nimkii and Alfred; his grandchildren Asia, Keith, Xavier, Rhys and Hope (Shawn’s children) and Maria (Marvin Jr.s child); his sisters Joan Ledoux and Linda Wassaykeesic (John); and numerous nieces, nephews, and close friends who were like family and all those whose lives he touched. He will be missed by his friends and colleagues throughout Treaty 3.
He was predeceased by his father, Joseph Sinclair; mother, Mary Agnes Sinclair (nee Copenace); his brothers, George, Richard, Edgar and Alfred – all Sinclairs; his sisters Louise Hunter, Grace Chartrand, Rosalie Bunn and Esther Bunn; his brothers in-law – Mervin Ledoux, Russell Bunn, Langford Bunn, and Rolland Chartrand. He also joins his son’s Marvin Jr. Sinclair and Shawn Sinclair as well as his dear niece Cheryl Ledoux Bird.
A long time resident of Treaty 3 environs including the city of Kenora and his home community of Washagamis Bay. Marv’s early years in Kenora laid the foundation for a life characterized by a commitment to social work, child welfare, and advocacy. He dedicated his career to the well-being of others, within his home community and the broader Treaty 3 homelands. His passion for political and community service was a testament to his caring and wise nature. He was respected for his ability to work well with people from all walks of life in order to inspire and bring about meaningful change.
Beyond his professional endeavours, Marv’s zest for life was evident in his many interests. Music filled his home and heart, while nature provided him with endless joy and tranquility. He found solace and strength in spending time on his ancestral homelands, a practice that not only connected him to his roots but also to the natural world he so cherished.
Marv’s adventurous spirit was matched by his profound concern for the well-being of others. He had a unique gift for checking in on friends, family, and community members near and far, ensuring that their needs were met and that they felt seen, cared for, and heard. This was true especially during the pandemic when he ensured those who were elderly or in need were able to access groceries and other necessities within our community going around delivering things himself. His amazing ability to connect with people from all walks of life left a mark on countless hearts and minds. Not only was he a caring individual but he also had wonderful sense of humour which put others quickly at ease.
Marv’s legacy is carried forward by his those who loved him including his partner and children. The wider Sinclair family, our closest relations, and all those who drew inspiration from him will continue to honour his memory by living out the values he demonstrated, a deep love of community and a genuine caring heart for people.
Marv’s departure from this world leaves a void, but his memory will continue to inspire and guide us to work towards making a lasting difference in the lives of others. We celebrate Marv’s remarkable journey and remember a man who was not only intelligent, adventurous, and wise but also a leader among leaders, a kindhearted soul with a fantastic sense of humour and also depth and dignity.
As we say farewell to Marvin Joseph Sinclair, we reflect on a life well-lived—a life that will continue to resonate through the stories shared, the laughter remembered, and the profound impact he had on his community as Chief, counsellor and band manager and land claims negotiator.
In honouring Marv’s memory, we are reminded of the beauty of a life dedicated to service, the power of compassion, and the enduring strength of family and the resilience fostered by people who work together for a better community. His was a life that truly made a difference, and he will be deeply missed.
A wake will be held Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 2:00pm at Washagamis Bay First Nation Band Office. A funeral service will be held on Thursday, March 28, 2024 at 11:00am at Washagamis Bay First Nation Band Office with interment to follow at Washagamis Bay First Nation Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be Kris Chartrand, Ron Nelson Devin Chartrand, Jimmy Sinclair, Darryl Miller and Triston John-George. Honourary Pallbearers will be John Wassaykeesic and Evans Chartrand, Jeremy Ledoux and Isaiah Miller.