Obituary of George Hector Tourangeau

TOURANGEAU, George ‘Johnson’ Hector

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George “Johnson” Tourangeau is survived by his children, Sonja Tourangeau and Wil Tourangeau; stepchildren, Karen Keshane, Denise Kayseas, Ross Quewezance, and Randle Quewezance. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, the Tourangeau siblings; his church family; close friends; as well as dear friends, Guy Cote, Blakey Shingoose, Valentino Cote, and members of his horsemen families.

Dad had a big heart and cared deeply for many.

Predeceased by his loving wife, Cora Jean Tourangeau; step-son Leon Quewezance; granddaughter Farrah Keshane; and great-grandchild Rayla Blackbird.

Johnson was born on the Cote First Nation. He was the eldest living son of Pierre “Chippierre” Tourangeau and Elizabeth Tourangeau. He was a quiet man, brimming with optimism and eloquence.

At the tender age of 16, Johnson left home to stay with his Aunt Alice, where he was introduced to custom combining. This new venture led him to travel to Oklahoma, where he met and lived with the Henninger Family. He felt very much at home there. During this time, he ventured into various parts of the USA, even trying his hand at orange picking. Johnson returned to Canada in 1968 to assist his father with race horses, a life he quickly grew to love.

A lifelong horse enthusiast, Johnson raced thoroughbreds on both A and B tracks, along with chuckwagons both large and pony, and chariots. Aside from his love for horses, Johnson cherished animals in general and maintained a beautiful farm. He had an interest in trading, attending auctions, and making backyard deals.

Johnson loved to travel, exploring various parts of the USA, including visits to Graceland, Disneyland, New Mexico, and Phoenix, often inviting others along for these adventures. An avid observer of nature, he would often remark, "I've had a good life, seen many places, and done some wonderful things."

In his search for truth, Johnson found what he was looking for in 1977 when he accepted the Lord Jesus Christ into his life. In 1981, he became the Pastor of the Kamsack Lighthouse Mission, where he and his wife, Cora Jean, served the Lord together. He would spend many hours studying the Word of God and sharing his knowledge.

For over 30 years, Johnson worked diligently with the Saskatchewan Indian Agricultural Program, measuring land and sharing his knowledge of agriculture with First Nations peoples. He was also involved in 4H, taking many children to 4H camps in the summer and working tirelessly with other farmers to improve their yields.

Johnson was a dedicated family man. He worked hard to provide for and protect his family, maintaining high expectations for his children. He had a knack for making friends and renewing acquaintances everywhere he went.

Will would like to give special acknowledgement and thanks to Monique Goulet for all the help she gave to George over the past two years.

In his final year, Johnson cherished quality time with his daughter, Sonja, and his grandchildren. He grew even gentler and kinder. Whispering in his ear, Sonja would say, “Dad, you are a good dad. I love you, and thank you for being there for me.”