Vernon "Shoo-Shoo" Meeches

Vernon Earl Joseph Meeches

Our family is sad to announce the passing of our husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle. Vernon Earl Meeches passed away December 21 at his home in Long Plain First Nation.  Vernon leaves to mourn his wife Lena Moose; his children Ryan, Gregory, Melissa, Cory, Brittany, Dylan, Matthew and Erin.  He will also be missed by his siblings David (Geraldine), Lisa (Dale), Timothy (Charlene) and Fabian (Michelle) along with many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.  He was grateful for his stepchildren as well.

Vernon's Spirit name was Blue Thunderbird but everyone in Long Plain knew him as Shoo Shoo.  Vernon was a jack of all trades but was best known and loved as the Arena Manager in Long Plain.  During his 27 years at the arena he also helped raise several generations of kids who were known as the arena rats.  Many have already shared with his family how much he will be missed.  He was also a camera operator on Sharing Circle and for MTN Television.

Shoo Shoo was a ladies man and always said that he was accepting applications.  He was also an avid hunter until he snared his Moose.  Once he snagged Lena he was hooked.

Vernon was a strong man with a gentle spirit.  He spent many years as the Fire Chief and an instructor and was always helping others.  He would be the first one there for anyone in need.  He was the fire keeper at many pow wows and loved hanging out with the drum groups.  He accepted tobacco for many community members and would help families get thru the difficult process of burying loved ones.

Dad was an amazing man who was there when we needed him.  He was an avid chess player and taught his kids how to play.  We spent hours playing with him although sometimes he would try to cheat.  He had a great sense of humour and loved to make us laugh.  He prided himself in making the traditional swings for his grandchildren, nieces and nephews.  He loved to hold the babies up in the air and balance them on their bums or their feet while their mothers watched in horror.

For many years Vernon suffered in silence with the pain he endured but he didn’t want to be a burden.  He wouldn’t let anyone know the pain he was in.  He would rather worry about his family than having them worry about him.  He was loved so much and will be missed by the entire community.

Traditional Wake will be held on Tuesday, December 27 at 5:00 pm at the Long Plain Spirit Lodge, Long Plain First Nation.  The Traditional Feast and prayers will commence at noon on Wednesday, December 28 followed by the Traditional Funeral Service.  The service will be officiated by Chief Keith Pashe.  Pallbearers will be Mathew Meeches, Gregory Meeches, Billy Meeches, Earl Soldier, Chris Myran, Marvin Myerion Jr., Jacob Meeches, Trevor Meeches, Trever Schwenzer and Troy Meeches.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel.  204-857-4021 www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com