Obituary of Grace Arlene LaBoucane

Grace Arlene LaBoucane

August 14, 1943 - October 25, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that our family announces the death of Grace “Arlene” LaBoucane on October 25, 2025, in her hometown of Fort St. John, British Columbia.  Born on August 14, 1943, Arlene leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and unwavering dedication to her family and Indigenous community.

Arlene's love for her family was unparalleled. She is survived by her sons, Ritchard LaBoucane (Renee) and Kent LaBoucane (Linda), as well as her cherished grandchildren. Her love and guidance will forever live on through her family.

Arlene was a force of nature. She moved through the world with unfaltering strength and resilience. As with everything she did in life, she did it wholeheartedly, from loving her grandchildren, Josh, Hayden, Haley, and Morgan, to fighting for justice for the Treaty 8 community. She was awarded a medal by Queen Elizabeth II for her noble endeavors.  Her commitment to her heritage was unwavering, and she dedicated herself to sharing her understanding with others. As a respected Elder, she was asked to open many meetings and ceremonies with prayers and smudging; this brought her great joy.

When Arlene wasn’t out touring the Peace Region in search of the best berry patches, she was perfecting the best canned jams with her sisters. She spent many summers on the banks of Two Rivers playing cards: Sticks and Crib being her favorites. Arlene was also known to go out of her way for her love of Bingo, including a quick trip to Grande Prairie one evening just to catch a game. If you had the chance to sit next to her at the Bingo Hall and heard the number 66 being called, you would hear her enthusiastically say “clicky click, 66”. You would undoubtedly laugh until it hurt and catch up on all the latest happenings.

Whatever the adventure was she was always ready to jump in and embrace each moment with enthusiasm and joy. Whether it was bringing bread and bacon to her brother Sam at the River, or a quick trip up to Watson Lake with her Grandson, Josh, she never went anywhere empty-handed. She was often armed with a bucket of KFC, or Chinese food, just in case. Without fail you could call Arlene up and ask for syrup and you would have it delivered to your door, or on one occasion, a Pink Mountain campsite. Arlene would get in her vehicle, roll the windows down, enjoy the drive, and search for eagles in the skies.

Her passion, fierce independence, and unique character were evident in everything she did, with her presence lighting up the lives of those around her. A great example of this was when Arlene was moved into Peace Villa and quickly become the favorite of the staff who cared for her. Her quick wit stayed with her until the end, keeping a smile on everyone’s face who got to interact with her. There are not enough words of heartfelt gratitude we could express to the staff at Peace Villa who provided her with the best possible care. They truly made Arlene as comfortable as possible in her final days.

Arlene LaBoucane was an Elder, grandmother, mom, sister, auntie, and friend. She touched the lives of countless people, leaving behind her distinctive mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her spirit, strength, and love will continue to inspire and guide her family and community for generations to come. May her memory be a blessing and may her legacy of love and resilience live on in the hearts of all who were touched by her remarkable presence. 

In lieu of flowers we would greatly appreciate a donation to BC Dementia Care Organization in Arlene's name. Click here to donate.