FOX, Marvin

FOX, Marvin Maurice (Omahksipiitaa- Big Eagle) November 5, 1935 – October 2, 2018

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of the great knowledge keepers of the Blood Reserve, Marvin Fox (Omahksipiitaa). He was a celebrated elder and educator, an author, storyteller, Blackfoot language keeper and translator, who devoted his life to the Creator, family and community. Marvin was born and raised in Kainaiwa to George & Margaret (Many Fingers) Fox. Born into both the Many Children (Aakaipokaiksi) and Fish Eaters (Mamiaoyiiksi) clans, Marvin was immersed, at an early age, into the rich language and traditions of the Siksikaisitapiiks (Blackfoot People). Marvin became a member of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate where he was bestowed his Blackfoot name “Omahksipiitaa” from his grandfather Stephen Fox Sr., when he became a member of the spiritual society of OMI in 1963 and the Saaamiksi Society. Marvin persevered in his educational pursuits and was a lifelong learner and worked hard to acquire the tools to preserve his western and traditional knowledge and to teach others. He received a B.A. and B.Ed. degree from the University of Ottawa; he also studied linguistics at the University of Alberta, community development at St. Francis Xavier (Coady International Institute) and Management at the University of Calgary. After graduating, Marvin returned and worked for his community and the Treaty 7 First Nations for the next 30 years. He worked in various positions throughout his career with focused dedication spent towards the preservation and resurgence of Blackfoot culture and language.He will be missed dearly by his loving wife of 50 years, Lily May (White Pup), sons – Andrew (Terry) and Rocky (Shirley), nine grandchildren; Mitchell, Staven, Courtney, Zachery, Donovan, Tico, Elijah, Kierra, Leighton, his siblings, Delphine (Woodrow) Good Striker, Norbert (Mary Louise), Tony, Leo (Dave), Bernard (Barbara), Chief Roy (Genevieve), Arnold, Jenny and Jacinta, his adopted sister Dr. Deborah Pace, his adopted sons Mitchell and Steve Buffalo, and his many nieces and nephews. Marvin was predeceased by his son Danny (2016), infant granddaughter, parents and grandparents.Marvin’s greatest treasure was his wife, Lily May and their three sons and nine grandchildren. Marvin married his wonderful and loving wife, Lily May and they recently celebrated their 50th anniversary. Marvin was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather. He led a busy life but always found time to participate in his children’s educational pursuits, athletics and personal endeavors. His family was often found playing golf and attending hockey games, amongst other sporting activities. Marvin’s children and grandchildren exemplify his teachings and his legacy will live on through them. Marvin was kind, gentle and patient and lived life to the fullest. He possessed a pure, kind and radiant heart. His enduring lesson to all of us was to recognize and appreciate the Blackfoot language and traditional values. He inspired a vision to those closest to him to persevere in life and to develop our gifts that were given to us by Creator despite the hardships and many obstacles of life. He will be remembered as one of the great Blackfoot scholars of our generation and will be deeply missed.Please join us in the celebration of Omahksipiitaa’s life on Friday, October 12, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. at St. Mary’s Church, Blood Reserve. Interment at Blood Band Cemetery, Blood Reserve, Alberta. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com.In living memory of Marvin Fox, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Park Memorial, 5008 Elbow Drive S.W., Calgary, AB, T2S 2L5, Telephone: 403-243-8200.