Rainbow ribbons and bouquets of flowers adorned the casket of Trevor Dubois, 36, at his funeral in Prince Albert’s Ches Leach Lounge, attended by hundreds on Thursday. As tribute videos played, attendees shared laughter and tears while commemorating his life.
Dubois passed away a week earlier following a physical altercation with hospital security at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon, where he was undergoing treatment for brain cancer. Authorities are still investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
Remembered as a champion for those in need, an Indigenous social worker, a mentor, and a proud member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, Dubois was described as a charismatic individual whose impact was profound. Bianca Sanderson, a close family friend, highlighted Dubois’s ability to command attention and inspire authenticity in others.
Sanderson emotionally spoke of Dubois’s multifaceted roles as a son, uncle, mental health therapist, and advocate, emphasizing his unwavering support for those around him. The gathering included classmates, coworkers, and beneficiaries of Dubois’s assistance from various parts of Saskatchewan, all mourning the loss of a remarkable individual.
Shelby Roberts, a former schoolmate, praised Dubois for his unconditional acceptance of people and remarked on the lasting impact he continues to have on those who knew him. Amidst the mourning, many present at the service expressed a desire for clarity regarding the events leading to Dubois’s death.
Reflecting on Dubois’s legacy, Sherry McLennan, regional director for Métis Nation–Saskatchewan, recalled his compassionate nature and the motto he lived by: ‘Smudge before you judge.’ She noted the profound impact of Dubois’s death on the Indigenous community, raising concerns about racial biases in healthcare settings and interactions with authorities.
Saskatoon police reported that security personnel intervened in Dubois’s hospital room based on a report of a firearm sighting, leading to a physical altercation that resulted in Dubois becoming unresponsive. Subsequent investigations revealed an imitation firearm, meth, and drug paraphernalia in the room, with Dubois’s family disputing the characterization of the imitation firearm as a harmless pink plastic cigarette lighter.
The ongoing discussion surrounding the events leading up to Dubois’s death underscores the importance of accurate information in shaping public understanding of the circumstances surrounding his passing.