Janet “October” Fostey
Long-time Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) employee Janet (October) Fostey will be remembered for her laugh, dedication to her clients and advocacy for Métis people.
October, 68, passed away on Feb. 13, 2019. She was the loving wife of Steve for 36 wonderful years, mother to Jason Haney (Rayna) and Tiffany Haney (Paul), sister to Kathy Bignall and Gary Robinson and godmother to Jessie Allison.
“On behalf of the Provisional Council of the MNO, I want to express my heartfelt condolences to October’s family”, said President Margaret Froh.
October began working with the MNO in 2005, in Windsor, working as what’s now known as a Métis Healthy Baby Healthy Children Coordinator.
“She was a tireless advocate for Métis people and their families, her contributions will always be felt and treasured by the community,” stated MNO Chief Operating Officer Joanne Meyer.
“October was a huge part of the community,” said MNO Windsor Essex-Kent Métis Council President Donna Grayer. “She was a strong voice for families and for Métis inclusion. She made sure Métis were always included.” Grayer added October was spirited, funny and was always laughing. “She was an amazing woman, will be missed by many.”
October helped her clients with whatever they needed. Back in 2013, she was an instrumental part of creating the Métis Baby Bundle Book, spending time with traditional knowledge holders who shared their stories about family and parenting.
Lynne Picotte, MNO Manager of Quality Assurance, said October was an excellent advocate for her clients and had a lot of wisdom that she didn’t hesitate to share.
“She fought hard for parents and their children. She was awesome,” Picotte said. “Her passing is a loss for the MNO; she was loved.”
As MNO Windsor Essex-Kent Métis Council Senator Jim Turner got to know October, he found she was one-of-a-kind and had a warm spirit.
“She was always laughing and making people feel good,” he said. “Being around her was like sitting around a warm fire. She was warm and upbeat and her spirit radiated that warmth.”
He added, “I know her clients are really going to miss her. I loved her to bits, and so did everyone else.”
The MNO extends sincere condolences to the family and will treasure the many wonderful memories of October.
A celebration of October’s life was held in Windsor on Feb. 18 hosted by the Ska:na Family Learning Centre and the Métis Nation of Ontario.
Posted: Feb. 20, 2019