September 29, 1969 – January 28, 2026
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Norma Katharine Vaillancourt (née Mendowegan), age 56 years and member of Ginoogaming First Nation, unexpectedly at her residence in Vancouver, British Columbia on Wednesday, January 28, 2026.

Norma was born on September 29, 1969 in Aroland to Margaret (née Wadow) and Joseph Mendowegan. She was a Residential School Survivor and lived with her adoptive family, working in Winnipeg for a number of years before eventually settling in British Columbia. Norma enjoyed her job and the people she worked with and when asked what she did, her response was that she was “saving lives”.  She was an animal lover, and especially loved to spoil her cat. She will be dearly missed but her memory will live on in the hearts of family, friends, and community members.

Norma is survived by her daughter and son; sisters Roseline (Dennis) Mugaby and Merna Mendowegan and brother Basil Mendowegan (Elaina) as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

She was predeceased by her parents, Joseph and Margaret Mendowegan; sisters Joann Mendowegan, Beverly McKay and Nelda Legarde as well as other extended family.

Funeral Services will take place on Tuesday, March 31, 2026. Family and friends are invited to gather at St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church in Longlac for a Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m., celebrated by Deacon Michael Robinson . Cremation has taken place and interment will be held at a later date in Longlac Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the EVEREST – WESTFORT CHAPEL, 420 West Gore Street at James, Thunder Bay. 

Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com