John George (Poochie) McGillivary

John “Poochie” McGillivary was born Thursday, April 7, 1955 in The Pas, Manitoba. While growing up on Opaskwayak Cree Nation, he was very active in sports like soccer, hockey and later on in life golfing. He accompanied a youth soccer team to Sweden and he was proud to be the official time keeper for the OCN Blizzard for 12 years.

            He thoroughly enjoyed his hunting buddies from Scuttlebutt Lodge which he still visited occasionally.  He cherished the opportunity he was given to help teach and guide the youth along the way. He had a passion for going down river with his Summerberry gang. There he fished and learned his trapping skills. He went there summer or winter and spent a few New Year’s there.

            Poochie was employed at Otineka Mall for over 42 years which clearly showed the love and devotion he had for his community. He trained and mentored fellow coworkers building solid lifelong friendships. He touched many lives of all that had the pleasure to meet him and work alongside him.

            He always had a calming demeanor, a man of few words, until of course, you got to know him.

            Our hearts will be forever blessed having Poochie in our lives. There truly are no words that could ever capture what you mean to all of us. The years we have had will never be enough. We will cherish our memories of you. You were an angel on earth and now you have been given your wings. Forever and always loved. “Mornin!”

In keeping with family wishes, cremation has taken place and a celebration of life will be held at a later date when the COVID rules ease.