Harry Lanza Michael Jr.

With deep love and sorrow, the family of Harry Lanza Michael Jr. announces his passing on October 11, 2025, at the age of 74, after a courageous battle with cancer. Harry was born on May 25, 1951, on the Beardy’s and Okemasis' Cree Nation, a place and community he cherished throughout his life. 

Harry was predeceased by his parents, Angele and Harry Michael Sr., and by his brothers Joseph Stanley, Peter Lanza, Andy Michael, Keith Michael, and sisters Margaret Rose, Yvonne Head, Bernice Grecny, Phyllis Bighead, and Marie Therese Michael. He is survived by his siblings John (Jeanette) Michael, Mary Gertrude (Leo) Milward, Grace Yazzie, Joyce Seesequasis, Debbie Michael, Warren Michael, Wendell (Norma) Michael, and Bradley (Laura) Michael. He is also survived by special aunties Pat Duncan and Pam (Tim) Sloan. 

Harry will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife, Yvonne Louise Michael, with whom he shared a lifetime of love, faith, and partnership. Together they raised a beautiful family who were his greatest pride and joy: Eric (Corinne) Michael, Jared Michael, Harrison Michael, Erin (Stan) Tu’Inukuafe, Jalynne (Dustin) Geddes, and John Michael. His spirit, laughter, and joy continue to live on through his cherished nôsim (grandchildren): Matthew (Courtney), Samuel, Christopher, Nathaniel, Pilimilose, Meliame, Fololita, Nîpin, Desmond, and Winifred. Harry was also excited for his upcoming next role of câpân. 

A survivor of the Residential Day School, Harry carried his history with quiet strength and dignity. Despite the challenges he faced, he retained his language and remained a fluent Cree speaker, teaching by example the importance of resilience, culture, and pride in one’s roots. 

Though modest about his accomplishments, Harry enjoyed a wonderful and fulfilling career, earning the respect of all who worked with him. He was deeply devoted to his family, his community, and his faith, living each day with humility, generosity, and an open heart. His steady presence, his humor, and his kindness will be profoundly missed but never forgotten. 

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to the St. Paul's Hospital Palliative Care Team.

A Public Viewing will be held at the Saskatoon Funeral Home located at 338 4th Ave. North, Saskatoon, SK. on Friday, October 17th, 2025 from 6 PM to 8 PM. The Funeral service will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 339 Fairmont Dr. Saskatoon, SK. on Saturday, October 18th, 2025 at 10 AM. For those who could not attend the Friday viewing, a brief viewing will occur from 9 AM to 9:45 AM prior the start of the funeral service. 

The burial will follow the service at the Reinfeld Bergthaler Mennonite Cemetery in Hague, SK. 

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Saskatoon Funeral Home.