Orville Smoke

~ Tocan Sneya Had Najee ~

“He Who Stands Making a Noise”

Chief Orville Charles Smoke, lifelong resident of Dakota Plains, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by loved ones on October 5th , 2021at the age of 74 years.

Orville will be lovingly remembered by his brothers Ronald Smoke Sr. and Leslie Smoke; his children Arden (Sherry), Donny (Joan) and Evangeline (Jason); wife Rosalind and her sons Peter Sky and Cole Merrick; grandchildren Ashley (Ryan), Chandelle, Ethan, Melora (Jeff), Keaton (Jordan), Jaytey, Sophia and Deshawn; great-grandchildren Riley and Rowan.

He was predeceased by his parents Tiyo and Chaske Smoke, sister Rowena McIvor and brothers Raymond, Ernie, Stuart, Arnett, Gordon and  Laurence Smoke.

Orville was born in Portage la Prairie on July 12th, 1947. He attended Portage la Prairie Residential School and vocational college in Winnipeg. Orville began working for the community of Dakota Plains in 1968, becoming Chief in 1994 with the blessing of the community following the passing of his brother Ernie. A jack of all trades, Orville was a skilled mechanic, plumber, welder, preacher, hunter, poet and artist. He enjoyed playing and watching pool, baseball, hockey and listening to good music. He was the most kindhearted and caring man, always willing to lend a helping hand and listening ear to anyone who was in need. He will be deeply missed by his friends, family and all who knew them.

“There it blooms, the beautiful rose

Answers, dreams, I looked for so long

Only I, no one else knows

Now my heart, soul, It sings a song”

Visitation will be held at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm on Friday, October 8, 2021.

Private burial will be held at the Dakota Plains Cemetery.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com