Peacefully on May 13, 2026 at the Concordia General Hospital with his wife Yvonne by his side, our loving husband, dad, papa, brother, brother-in-law, father-in-law, uncle, godfather and friend Ronald Joseph Ballantyne of Misipawistik Cree Nation passed away at the age of 69.
Ron leaves behind his wife Yvonne of 51 years; his children Roberta (Bruce) and Lenny (Trina); his two nephews that were like sons to him, Buzz (Tammy) Ault and Kevin (Kerri) Ault; his grandchildren Jayme and Jaxon, Lennon, Bianca, Jetta, Ryker, Piper, Sage, Cedar and Kieran; his sister Marilyn Hall (Ivan); his brother Bernell Ballantyne (Cynthia); along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, distant relatives and friends.
Ron was predeceased by his parents Solomon and Bernadette Ballantyne; grandparents Alfred and Harriet Ballantyne and Moise and Marie Lavallee; his brothers, Brent (Butch) Ballantyne and Brian Ballantyne; his sister Gail Ledoux; niece Danielle Ballantyne; nephew Tyler (Simba) Ballantyne; along with many other relatives.
Ron was a devoted family man, respected community leader, and lifelong outdoorsman. Born and raised on the land alongside his parents and siblings, he developed a deep connection to nature that remained with him throughout his life. He carried this knowledge forward, sharing it generously with his children, grandchildren and extended family, ensuring that his teachings and traditions would continue for generations to come.
A lifelong commercial fisherman, he found great joy each summer in Gull Bay around the family cabins, where he worked the waters and lived close to the land he loved. The outdoors was his sanctuary — whether fishing, hunting, or simply enjoying time with loved ones, he was always most at peace surrounded by nature.
He dedicated many years of his life to serving others. As a court communicator, he played an important role in helping Indigenous individuals navigate the justice system, offering guidance, understanding, and support during difficult times. His commitment to his people was further reflected in his over 20 years of service as a Band Councillor for Misipawistik, the community he proudly called home. His leadership and dedication left a lasting impact on those he served. In addition, he served many years as a Director on the Freshwater Fish Marketing board, advocating for the commercial fishers to ensure that their needs were met.
In his later years, he spent time in Winnipeg, where he could often be found at Playmakers Lounge in Transcona, enjoying his favorite slot machine, always with a familiar smile and a warm presence. He often talked of his favourite waitress Hannah and his buddy Sterling Campbell.
Above all, he will be remembered for his love of family. He cherished time spent with his children and relatives, passing down stories, skills, and values that will continue to live on in those who knew and loved him.
Wake Service: Monday, May 18, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. at the Chief Peter Beardy Memorial Hall, Grand Rapids, Manitoba
Funeral Service: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at the Chief Peter Beardy Memorial Hall, Grand Rapids, Manitoba
Officiant: Rev. Steve Martin
Eulogy: Ryan Ault
Pallbearers: Mal Ballantyne, Jaxon (Gig) Turner, Jayme (Spider) Turner, Justin (Jin) Hall, Bradley (Yap) Ballantyne, Bobby (Bobs) Ballantyne, Tyson (Mowg) Ballantyne, Kevin Ault, Geoffrey Ault, Laurent (Meman) Ledoux, Lennon (Nennon) Ballantyne and Shayne Karol.
-The names in brackets are what Papa/Uncle Cannon called these boys.
Honorary Pallbearers: His many nieces, nephews and Godchildren; Albert (Bad Company) Ross, Walter (Moses) Cook and Kenneth (Big Bird) Cook.
Appreciation: The family would like to thank Misipawistik Cree Nation, Chief and Council, the nurses, health care aids and Dr. Thomas of the Concordia General Hospital, the community of Grand Rapids and all the additional help and Anderson Family Funeral Home. Thank you for all your support.
I Saw The Light
Verse 1
I wandered so aimless, life filled with sin
I wouldn't let my dear Savior in
Then Jesus came like a stranger in the night
Praise the Lord, I saw the light
Chorus:
I saw the light, I saw the light
No more darkness, no more night
Now I'm so happy no sorrow in sight
Praise the Lord, I saw the light
Verse 2
Just like a blind man, I wandered along
Worries and fears I claimed for my own
Then like the blind man that God gave back his sight
Praise the Lord, I saw the light
Verse 3
I was a fool to wander and stray
For straight is the gate and narrows the way
Now I have traded the wrong for the right
Praise the Lord, I saw the light
Use the links below to share this obituary to social media.
