John Paul Lavand Jr.
“Passing Cloud”
September 5, 1962 – May 6, 2025
John passed away unexpectedly in the early morning hours of Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 5:12 AM in Thunder Bay, Ontario. He was 62 years old.
John will be forever cherished and remembered by his children, Dawn Coffin and Jonathon Lavand; his siblings, Margaret Lavand and Claudie Indian (Jason); his aunties and uncles, Cherie, Irene (Donny), Christine, Eva, and Albert; and his grandchildren, Kailey, Jeremy, Jordan, Acelyn, and Zachary.
He is also lovingly remembered by his nieces and nephews: Dean, Delena, Jenilee, Kylie (Ryland), Jacie, Terra, Jennifer, Ryan, Dino, Jeffrey (Amy), and Harley; and by his great-nieces and great-nephews: Travis, Taydan, Grace, Raven, Kai, Luna, Kinlen, Dalton, Raena, Lilia, Jayce, Zach, Kaylee, and many more.
John is predeceased by his parents, Bessie Lavand and John Paul Lavand Sr.; his sisters, Yvonne Williams and Frances Bunting; and his brothers, Marcel Lavand and William Lavand.
John, or known as Bash or JP by friends and family, was affectionately known for having a deep passion for creating beautiful Indigenous artwork in Kenora, Ontario. He loved sharing stories and laughter with anyone who sat with him. He traveled across Canada to promote and sell his artwork and spoke at many events. During the summer, he could often be found at the Kenora Farmer’s Market at the harbourfront, proudly displaying his work and supporting other local vendors.
He also spent time at the former Tangled Tree with Jade Lorimer, where he helped with framing and volunteered to support the surrounding business community. A kind and generous soul, John was always willing to lend a hand — including helping to shovel sidewalks in winter. He met many wonderful people during his travels and left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
There will be a wake open to the public, held at Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre from 1:00pm to 8:00pm on Tuesday, May 13, 2025. There will be a Catholic Funeral Service at Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre at 2:00pm on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, with Pastor Timothy Elias. Following the funeral, there will be a Celebration of Life for John Paul Lavand at Wauzhushk Onigum Nation (Rat Portage) CDC/GYM @ 5:00 PM.
Cremation will follow through Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Centre, and he will be at rest in Wabigoon with his late Mother and Sister.