La Conner High School alum and longtime Kern Funeral Home owner Connie LeSourd received a warm welcome from Swinomish Indian Tribal Community members last week.
LeSourd was blanketed—a powerful act of honor and respect, signifying her important contributions to the tribal community—during a two-hour dinner and program on April 23 at the Swinomish gymnasium.
LeSourd and her family were saluted during the feast by numerous tribal leaders, including Swinomish Senator and Cultural Events Director Aurelia Bailey.
“Connie has always been there for us in our times of need,” Bailey said.
LeSourd, who is nearing retirement amid health challenges, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the many tributes and special recognition received from Swinomish, not least of which was being honored with the ceremonial blanketing.
“This means the world to me and my family,” she said. “I want you all to know my whole family loves you so much. I thank you for letting me help you all these years.”
LeSourd, a 1978 La Conner High School graduate, began working at Kern’s with her father, the late LeRoy Anderson, while in her late 20s.
Anderson, who started at the funeral home in 1947 and eventually became a co-owner, established a strong and enduring bond with Swinomish, Bailey noted.
She said he frequently shared time on local waters with late Swinomish Senator Chester Cayou, Sr., who was fondly called “Grandpa Chet” by generations of tribal youth.
LeSourd, who has built upon that link with Swinomish, joined Kern’s ownership in 1991. Since then, she has been universally praised for how well her staff—which includes her son, Jeremiah, now a director at the funeral home—guides people through trying times.
“We want to acknowledge Connie’s lifetime of dedication,” Bailey said, “and all she has done for our people. It’s been a connection of many generations. Our grandpa, Chester Cayou, Sr., had a wonderful relationship with Connie’s dad.”
Others among the large audience stepped forward as well to thank LeSourd and her family for their unwavering compassion and empathy.
“We’re so grateful for Connie and her family,” said Swinomish Senator Barb James. “We’ve been blessed these many years to have you in our lives because you are family. On behalf of the community, we all love you.”
“It’s never been a job for you,” recently elected Swinomish Senator Fred Cayou said, speaking directly to LeSourd. “You’ve always been there. Your strength, your love, your compassion has gotten us through very difficult times. We truly are thankful for your presence.”
Swinomish Senator Bruce James cited the “big hearts” the Swinomish people have for the LeSourds.
“Connie is carrying on the service work from her parents,” he said. “I raise my hands up to your family, Connie. We love you guys.”
The Swinomish Canoe Family drummed and sang in honor of LeSourd as attendees formed a long line for the opportunity to personally express their gratitude to her and her family.
The emotion of the moment—and the entire evening—was deeply felt.
It was Bailey who captured the mood that permeated through the hall.
“No matter how difficult things have been for Connie,” Bailey said, “she never fails to show up for us.”
Bill Reynolds: bill@laconnercommunitynews.org. Bill is a general assignment reporter who covers Town government, schools, and spot news.
