With heavy hearts the family of Ann Callahan - Wapiskisiw Piyésís (White Bird Woman) announce her passing onto the spirit world.

Waiting for Ann at the River of Life will be her parents John Thomas and Nora Keewatin, son Michael Callahan Sr, her sisters Margaret and Irene, her brothers Wilmer and Ray along with extended family and friends.

Ann leaves behind to cherish her memory her brother John (Nora) Stonechild, daughter-in-law Nadine Nicklen, grandchildren Michael Callahan Jr., Marie Callahan, Travis Duncan and Celina Duncan, her great-grandchildren Johnson, Joshua, Gabriel and Mikayla as well as many nieces, nephews, friends and acquaintances too numerous to mention.

Ann became the first aboriginal nurse in Manitoba in 1958; she went on to become the Head Nurse of the Gynaecology Ward before joining a new organization, Continuing Care for People in Need, founded in 1973 to support the health needs of those in Winnipeg’s core area. After delivering the Nursing Program in 1983 at Red River College, Ann retired in 1996. Upon retirement, she returned to university and obtained both a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a masters in Interdisciplinary Studies.

In 2007, a new section of the Health Sciences Center opened and was named The Ann Thomas Building. She was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award from Canadian Indigenous Nurses Association in 2014, which she helped to create. She sat on many different boards throughout the city of Winnipeg and helped many people through their trials and tribulations.

Ann was big on being a spokeswoman for Residential School Survivors. When Ann spoke of her experience at the residential school, she did so in such a way that people would truly understand the harshness, effects and traumas of being a survivor.

Ann never had one bad word to say about anyone. She was always kind, loving, warm and welcomed people into her home. She always made sure her guests were fed before leaving. Ann always had a gift for someone, whether it was a token of love or a gift of her warm and loving hugs. Ann always had a smile on her face and beautiful stories to tell and share.

The family would like to give an honorable mention and a huge thank you to Cecile Richie who spent time with Ann while she was in the hospital, also to Seven Oaks 5th Floor-Unit 2 for the wonderful care and attention they gave Ann during her time in the hospital.

Pallbearers: Joshua Etteawacappo, Johnson Etteawacappo, Alex Queskakpow, Barry Houle, Terrel Creeley and Cameron Courchene