Aurelia LaFromboise, age 64, of Belcourt, ND passed away on Sunday, January 11, 2026 at Altru Hospital, Grand Forks, ND.

Aurelia Ann LaFromboise, whose traditional name is Waabi Makwa Ikwe (White Bear Woman), entered the Spirit World on January 11, 2026, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, North Dakota. She was 64 years old. Aurelia was born on October 5, 1961, in Belcourt, North Dakota, to Edward LaFountaine and Stella Desjarlais LaFountaine, who raised her with strong values rooted in family, culture, and compassion.

On December 2, 1989, Aurelia married the love of her life and, as she fondly described him, her "very best softball player," Linus LaFromboise Sr. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and deep family bonds. Aurelia was a devoted and proud mother to her children: Ryan (Brittany) LaFountaine, Linus LaFromboise Jr. (LJ), Sasha LaFromboise, Jordan (Jacori Street) LaFromboise, Trevor LaFromboise, Rusty Thomas, David LaVallie, Justyce LaFromboise, and Paris LaFromboise. Her children were her greatest joy, and her love for them knew no bounds.

Raised in Belcourt, Aurelia graduated from Turtle Mountain High School and continued her education at the University of Mayville in Mayville, North Dakota, where she earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. Teaching was not just her profession—it was her calling. Aurelia dedicated many years to Turtle Mountain Elementary School, where she taught various grade levels and played an instrumental role in the school's cultural club. She passionately educated her students not only in Western curricula but also in Ojibwa history, regalia, and dance, ensuring that cultural knowledge and pride were passed on to future generations. She is fondly remembered by former students and parents alike for her kindness, warmth, patience, and generous spirit.

On November 20, 2018, Aurelia endured the heartbreaking loss of her second-oldest child, Linus LaFromboise Jr. (LJ). This profound loss forever changed her life. Despite her grief, Aurelia continued to serve her students and community for several more years. After decades of teaching and during the 2023–2024 school year, she made the decision to retire so she could spend more time with her family.

Aurelia found joy in attending family gatherings, cooking large meals for those she loved, making frybread, going to the casino, and creating cherished memories during family vacations. Her presence brought comfort, laughter, and a sense of home wherever she was.

Aurelia is survived by her loving husband, Linus LaFromboise Sr. of Belcourt; her children; and her seven cherished grandchildren: Makina LaFountaine, Mirinda LaFountaine, Hayden LaFromboise, Zander LaFromboise, Cordell LaFromboise, Bailey LaFromboise, and Jade LaFromboise. She is also survived by her siblings: Delilah Martell; Leland (Lisa) LaFountaine; Gaylene (Bryan) Parisien; and sister-in-law Cathie (Charles) Gladue, all of Belcourt, as well as many nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Stella LaFountaine; her beloved son, Linus LaFromboise Jr. (LJ); and her brother, Leslie LaFountaine Sr.

Aurelia Ann LaFromboise, like the traditional name she holds, will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her dedication to education and culture, and the gentle strength she carried throughout her life. Her spirit lives on in the many lives she touched, the lessons she taught, and the love she freely gave.

A Funeral Service will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, January 16, 2026 at Eagle Heart Cultural Center (Log Cabin) in Dunseith, ND with visitation beginning at 10:00 AM.

Elick Funeral Home, Rolla, ND.