Douglas Grant Starr

The family of Doug Starr is saddened to announce his passing on Wednesday, November 24, 2021. Doug was born on April 26, 1947 in Fort Qu’Appelle, SK and is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Ernestine. Doug was born in Treaty 4 Territory at the Fort Qu’Appelle Indian Hospital. His parents were Dorothy and Norman Lafontaine. He was to grow up in a family of 12 siblings with their parents on a road allowance. Their dad was a labourer and their mom was a hardworking housewife. They had very humble beginnings, but they taught their children the value of hard work, and the need to get an education. This lead to them making the hard decision to have their older children attend residential school. Doug left home to attend All Saints Residential School in Prince Albert. Although he had a difficult time, he chose to remember his times at residential school in a positive light by focusing on the positive. This occurred with the relationships that he made with his fellow students. He also became a cadet, that lead to his enrollment to the militia. Doug valued many of these friendships that he maintained throughout his lifetime. Doug valued his kinship relationships. As a young man, this lead him to attend the North Battleford powwow with his friend Edwin Blackstar. Doug went to search for his long lost Moshom in that area, but he ended up meeting a young lady, Ernestine LaPlante, who would end up becoming his wife. Doug and Ernestine were married on December 6, 1969. Soon they started a young family. Their first child was Cheryl, Jonathon would come 11 years later, then Aaron two years later. They raised their family, instilling the importance of family, kinship, education, hard work, humbleness, and the responsibility of carrying on their Cree cultural ceremonies and traditions. Their children would also pursue their education. Doug was very proud of his children who became a social worker, a lawyer, and a family doctor in his family. Doug worked with the Saskatoon Tribal Council at Cress Housing. He was a Tenant Counselor for 34 years. During this time, he supported his sons in their pursuits with hockey and baseball. Later in his life, he grew to love soccer as two of his grandchildren pursued that sport. He loved being at the rink and made friends that he looked forward to meeting up with at tournaments and games. Doug mastered the art of visiting. Doug lived a long and varied life. His devotion to his wife, children, and his extended family will be greatly missed. A heartfelt thank you to RUH ICU Unit for their care of Doug. Arrangements are in care of Aime Laventure – Mourning Glory Funeral Services (306) 978-5200