Obituary of Big Tobacco

Francis Big Tobacco passed away peacefully at home on April 1, 2004 at the age of 81 years. Francis was born February 7, 1923 on the Blackfoot Reserve. His loving parents were the late Benjamin and Elizabeth Big Tobacco. He served as a Counsellor for five terms. Francis also worked with the Blackfoot Housing Society and the Blackfoot Family Services. He enjoyed camping and his grandchildren. Francis was involved in round-ups for the band and was a Stockman for the band. He was also a member of the Prairie Chicken Society and was involved in horse racing. Francis took pride in his traditional beliefs; he was into Pow-Wow and he also danced the Old-Time Chicken Dance. In his leisure time, he enjoyed playing pool. He is survived by his children, Claudette (Joe) Patrick, Melvina (Clifford) Healy, Irma (John) Wolf Child, Rena (Marvin) Maguire, Delia (Marvin) Big Tobacco, Frank (Clara) Big Tobacco, Anne Many Heads, Francine Big Tobacco, Ivan McMaster and Anthony Red Gun; and one daughter-in-law Joyce Royal. He is also survived by his sister Nancy Melting Tallow; his auntie Mary Bull Bear; his favourite nephew Clifford (Rosalyn) Many Guns; and numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Francis was predeceased by his wife Edna Fox; sons Joseph, Jeffery, and Woody; daughter Joyce Big Tobacco; granddaughter Karen Healy; grandparents, Mary and James Many Guns; sons-in-law Wilfred Calf Robe and Jasper Many Heads, Jr.; brothers Norman Big Tobacco and Louis Big Tobacco; sisters Geneve Cutter and Martha Big Tobacco; and extended family members. Wake services will be held at the Residence of Clifford and Melvina Healy (Siksika Nation, AB) on Monday, April 5, 2004 at 6:00 P.M. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Trinity Catholic Church (Siksika Nation, AB) on Tuesday April 6, 2004 at 12:00 P.M. with Rev. Ian GagnÚ, Presider. Graveside Service to follow at the Cannon Stockton Cemetery. To forward condolences go to www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Francis Big Tobacco, a tree will be dedicated at Siksika Nation by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Park Memorial Chapel, 5008 ELBOW DRIVE S.W., CALGARY, TELEPHONE: (403) 243-8200.