Oldest known survivor of residential school dies at age 111
Marguerite Kioke Wabano, better known as Gookum (Granny) Wabano by family and friends, died November 13 in Moose Factory, Ontario. At 111 years old, she was the oldest known residential school survivor.
Her granddaughter Joyce Spence Wabano says her Cree Gookum always attributed her longevity to her capacity to forgive.
"No use carrying things around. Learn to forgive, and it'll help you to live a long life," said Wabano, on her 110th birthday.
Wabano was a year old when Treaty 9 was signed. She lived through the depression and both world wars. She was among the residential school survivors invited into the House of Commons for Prime Minister Stephen Harper's formal apology in 2008.
Wabano, who spent her last years in a seniors home in Moosonee, leaves behind 25 grandchildren, 83 great grandchildren, 88 great great grandchildren and many great great great grandchildren, as well as many more who affectionately adopted her as their granny.
She gave life to many on this Earth, and many heard her cheerful laugh and stories over many years.
