Good morning, colleagues.
Today, I rise to share the passing of the loving member of the Fort Simpson community. On September 1st, 2025, the Norwegian and Godbout family, along with the broader community, lost a cherished mother, wife, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend, Rolande Marie (Godbout) Norwegian.
Rolande was born on March 8, 1951 in Drummond, New Brunswick to Dora and Roland Godbout. She was third of seven children and grew up surrounded by her siblings with a deep love for animals on the homestead.
After graduating high school, Rolande pursued a teaching career at university. This career brought her North, and while it was not known at the time, Fort Simpson would become her forever home. Although she eventually realized that teaching was not her true calling, her move North lead to discover something even greater - her lifelong partner Andy Norwegian. They married in December of 1975 and were just four months shy of celebrating their 50th anniversary. Today Rolande and Andy built a beautiful home and loving family, raising a daughter Zita, a son Guy, and welcoming two more daughters Sharlene and Hilary in their family.
Colleagues, Rolande was a kind and generous woman who gave freely of her time and heart to her family, friends and community. One small story shared about her passing speaks volumes. A woman of the community contributed food for the reception recalled how when she arrived in Fort Simpson without transportation, Rolande would drive her to various communities without a complaint. The simple fact of kindness left a lasting impression as did many of Rolande's gestures throughout her life.
I had the honour of meeting both Rolande and Andy when I arrived in the community. They were warm, welcoming, and deeply committed to both Fort Simpson and to the values of education. Rolande was always friendly, always smiling. Whether she was working or volunteering, she gave her full effort with grace and dedication.
Rolande's funeral was well attended by family, friends, and community members from Jean Marie, Sambaa K'e and Fort Simpson. Four of her siblings were present. The service held in three languages - English, French, and Dene Zhati. It was beautiful tribute and one Rolande would have truly appreciated. Her sister-in-law Gladys Norwegian delivered a eulogy which I have attached to this statement and respectfully request it be deemed as read and printed in the Hansard.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at the West Edmonton Kidney Care Centre, Stanton hospital, University of Alberta Hospital, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Kamloops hospital, and the Fort Nelson health centre, as well as the dedicated teams at the Fort Simpson home care, long-term care, and health centre. Their gratitude also goes to the many family members and friends who offered prayers and support during Rolande's sickness.
Rolande will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Her legacy of love and compassion and service will live in all those whose life she touched.
Rolande Norwegian
My name is Gladys Norwegian. I'm Andy's sister. Today, it is my honour to share memories and achievements of Rolande (Godbout) Norwegian's life, a kind-hearted woman who loved giving. Her warmth and compassion with her beautiful smile that lights up her face touched everyone she met. She was a woman of unwavering strength and boundless love. She appreciated neatness and organization. Zita and Guy will never forget their Saturday morning cleaning rituals, which they've continued, with Guy taking them just slightly further.
Rolande Marie Godbout, Norwegian, was born and raised in Drummond, New Brunswick, surrounded by her siblings and various farm animals. Cherished memories were shared and retold of her sibling's antics and her love for the various animals her family kept throughout their childhood.
Rolande grew up and attended university, where she studied Home Economics, which led her to Fort Simpson for a teaching position. Very quickly, she realized that she did not enjoy teaching. And this is when she met Andy. It was a 70's romance. Peace out! Their love was strong, not only in words but also in how they spoke to and cared for each other.
They got married in December 1975. They have been married 49 years and 8 months; 4 months shy of their 50th wedding anniversary.
They started a small family with Zita and Guy, which later grew into a larger family, with the addition of Charlene and Hilary Deneyoua, followed by grandchildren Chris, River, Keegan, Jaxon, and Ava.
Rolande worked at several places throughout her life. She worked at the Power Corp office and Midnight Petroleum, as well as the Fort Simpson Health centre, and even took on the challenge of running a home daycare when her granddaughter, River, was young. She also taught as a teacher's assistant alongside Andy when they lived in Jean Marie River. In recent years, she volunteered at the.
Catholic Parish Church until she was no longer able to do so. Whatever she took on, she did it with integrity.
In closing, her daughter Zita said. "This is what I have learned about death and dying. It can push you into new experiences and emotions that you are not ready to deal with, but it also brings family and friends together, sharing memories and stories of the past. Creating new memories with the loved one."
Our elder Laura expressed that Rolande came to live with us when she was very young.
Rolande, you will be missed. Memories of you will stay forever in our hearts. You may be small in stature, but your presence is mighty. Mahsi for being in our lives and brightening our world.
