Christopher Joseph Comeal Lafontaine was born on November 2nd, 1951 and passed away suddenly on January 9th, 2025 at the age of 73. He is predeceased by his parents Lillian and Napoleon Lafontaine; brothers Eldon, Dominic, Robin; and sister Tammy. Chris leaves behind his eternal companion of 47 years Manusiu Lafontaine and their five children, Chris Jr., Ali’i, Alika, Leemai, and Kalea; 21 grandchildren – Telia, Lanea, Junior, Sugardew, Teva – Moana, Kasaia, Kulei, Siona – Meilea, Tiger, Melina, Kenji – Kamea, Kea, Kavai, Keona – Hani, Mana, Tahi, Hina; his brother Wayne (Carol); sisters Debbie (Howie), Barb (Al), Twyla and Tracy as well as many nieces and nephews with which he had fond memories.

Christopher, known affectionately by his grandchildren as “Papa”, was taught by his mother Lil and his father Nappy to believe in the power of people to solve their own problems. He chose to spend his professional and personal time in this pursuit, leading or supporting the creation of organizations and movements that shared this mission. Papa was an executive director of Gabriel Dumont Institute, a Vice-President at Saskatchewan Polytechnic (previously SIAST), the founding executive director of the Saskatchewan Courtworker Program, and was a life-long consultant in Indigenous health, education, public safety, and social development as the managing partner of Lafontaine and Associates and a past partner of Associated Counselling Network. He volunteered with Namerind Housing, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and with organizations who supported Indigenous Elders and residential school survivors. 

Papa’s mind never stopped working and his heart continued to connect with others throughout his life. He was most happy spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren, thinking through big problems and catching up with friends and colleagues new and old. He loved riding horses and watching old movies. Papa was a lifelong friend to many, and he cherished relationships deeply. He was the type of person who would immediately call or visit you when you crossed his mind, no matter the time of day. Papa will be remembered by the many lives he changed for the better, and the institutions he built and strengthened.

In 2023, Papa achieved a late career dream; helping the Saulteaux Pelly Agency Health Alliance (SPAHA) secure $30 million to construct a multipurpose health facility on Keeseekoose First Nation funded by Indigenous Services Canada. Having helped support SPAHA to address ongoing health crises across its three First Nations member communities (Key First Nations, Cote First Nations, Keeseekoose First Nations), he hoped a facility on reserve could better serve culturally safe, trauma informed, patient centred care. His life’s mission will be carried on through his children and grandchildren, who will carry on his good work.

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