Richard Mervin Wanakamik (Rig-ga-gee)

May 30, 1955 – July 4, 2025

It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Richard Wanakamik, age 70. Originally from Wagaming, Ontario he later resided at Whitesand First Nation located near Armstrong, Ontario. He fought hard with his illness but eventually succumbed to his battle at his home in Whitesand on July 4, 2025.

He will be greatly missed by his eldest son Darby (Shawnessy) and his 2 grandsons Dawson and Lil Richard, and his only dawnis Tracy Rose, by his siblings Jocelyn, Dolores, Doris (Brent), Juanita, Marla, Alexander and Brian, “Uncle Richard” to many including Randy, Melody (Michael), Kayla, Brendon, Kirsten, Liberty, Logan, Jamilee, Brianne, Daylyn, Alanis and Lacey, “Great Uncle” to Patrick, Brody, Lila, Emerson, Korben, Hunter, Audrina, Mya, Sienna, Michael Jr., Weston, Xxayler and Kyler. We would also like to include the Nigidja/Nagotchi family. He also leaves behind many relations, friends, and acquaintances too many to name.

Richard was an avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed hunting, trapping and fishing, building log cabins from scratch was his specialty. He preferred being on the land passing on his knowledge to his children. City life wasn’t for him, except maybe a quick visit to the casino.

“Rig-ga-gee” was predeceased by parents Alexander and Alice, grandparents Frederick and Josephine, wife Dorothy and beloved son Lance Mitchell, as well as many aunts, uncles, cousins and “little angels” including Jared and Krystian.

As per Richard’s request there will be no church services and no flowers. Immediate family and friends will gather in Wagaming for a traditional service held in his honour by Jerry Baxter on July 11, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

A viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 from 1:00 until 3:00 p.m. in the chapel of Sargent and Son Funeral Home, Thunder Bay. Richard’s journey will continue to Wagaming on the same day. He will be resting at the cabin in Wagaming from July 9 until July 11 at 10:00 a.m. to say our farewells.

“Fly HIGH and MIGHTY with the LOONS dear Richard”

Online condolences may be expressed at www.sargentandson.com.