Sunrise: September 28, 1937, Sunset: May 23, 2026
With heavy hearts and deep sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved Daisy
Ishabid — a loving mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great-
grandmother, auntie, and dear friend to so many. Daisy was the heart of her family and
community, and her kindness, strength, and beautiful spirit touched everyone who knew
her.
Daisy leaves behind her loving children and their families: Maxine Bouchard, Debbie
Bouchard, Carol and John Gagnon, Barbara Bouchard, Sharon Bouchard, Karen
Bouchard and Allen K., Stella Bouchard and Jeffrey Gagnon, as well as her adopted
son Jessy Dew and Heather Howard. She was a proud and devoted grandmother to 37
grandchildren, 47 great-great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-great-grandchildren, all
of whom she loved beyond measure.
She is predeceased by her parents, Mike and Barbara Finlayson; her siblings Oliver,
William, Joe, and Duncan Finlayson; her beloved husband Abraham Ishabid; her
children Barry Bouchard and Arlene Legarde; and her in-laws Symphrose
Mendowagan, Abraham Mazinakouskang, Chris Gagnon, and Eddie Legarde.
Daisy spent most of her life caring for others. From a young age, she dedicated herself
to helping her family and community. Strong in her faith, she faithfully assisted priests
and nuns and always carried herself with compassion, humility, and generosity. She was
honored to be one of the founders of Saint Kateri Days, which first began at the
Thunderbird Friendship Centre and continues to be celebrated yearly in Thunder Bay.
As a young woman, Daisy worked alongside her mother, who was a midwife, helping
bring many babies into the world within her community. She later worked as a waitress
and eventually became an Educational and Remedial Teacher at Aroland Day School,
where she cared deeply for the children she helped guide and support.
While living in Geraldton, Ontario, Daisy attended senior programs at the Thunderbird
Friendship Centre, where she formed many meaningful friendships and connections
with staff and fellow seniors who became like family to her. She had a way of making
people feel welcomed, seen, and loved wherever she went.
More than anything, Daisy loved her family. She cherished time spent with her children,
grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, especially during birthdays and family
gatherings filled with laughter, stories, and love. She loved playing cards, especially her
favorite game, Boss Man, and could always be counted on for a good laugh and warm
company. Daisy also loved gospel music and often sang her grandbabies to sleep with
a gentle voice full of love and comfort.
Her smile was unforgettable — warm, bright, and contagious. It had a way of lifting
spirits and bringing comfort to those around her. Even during her final years at Hogarth
Riverview Manor, Daisy continued to bring joy to others. She enjoyed playing cards,
visiting with her daughters and grandchildren, and sharing her beautiful smile
throughout the halls, brightening the days of residents and staff alike.
Daisy’s love, faith, strength, and caring heart will live on through the many lives she
touched. Though our hearts are broken, we find comfort in the memories she gave us,
the lessons she taught us, and the love she shared so freely.
She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered.
A traditional wake is being held at the Family Home, 320 Tamarak Place, Thunder Bay, ON, starting at 10:00am Tuesday, May 26, 2026 and concluding at 10:00am Thursday, May 28, 2026.
A Funeral Mass in Honour of the late Mrs. Daisy Ishabid will be held at 11:00am Friday, May 29, 2026 in St. Patrick’s Cathedral, celebrated by Rev. Msgr. P.M. Stilla, J.V.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the WESTFORT CHAPEL, 420 West Gore Street at James.
Please sign the online condolences at everestofthunderbay.com
