In Loving Memory of Roderick “Loli” Gould
Roderick Andrew Gould – May 27, 1954 – May 31, 2026
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, Roderick “Loli” Gould of We’koqma’q First Nation, who passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on Sunday, May 31, 2026.
Loli was a man whose presence brought joy wherever he went. Known for his warm smile, infectious laughter, kind heart, and welcoming spirit, he touched the lives of countless people throughout his lifetime. He lived each day with gratitude, compassion, and a deep love for his family, community, and Mi’kmaw culture.
He leaves behind his cherished children: Sarena Gould (Eskasoni), Crystal Simon (Edmonton), Rita Sylliboy (Sydney), Philomena Simon (Sipekne’katik First Nation), and Roddie Gould Jr.(Sipekne’katik First Nation) along with many grandchildren, one great-grandchild, his siblings, Mary Joan Gould-Lafford (Eskasoni) And Richard Gould (We’koqma’q), nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will forever hold his memory close to their hearts.
Loli was predeceased by and reunited with loved ones who have gone before him, his loving wife, Shirley Ann Dennis-Gould; his parents, Mary Angus Phillips-Gould and Andrew Gould; and his siblings John Gould, Bernie Gould, Annie Elizabeth Gould, Peter Gould, Barbara Jean Gould-Googoo, Wilfred Gould, and Joseph Gould.
In his younger years, Loli spent many seasons travelling to Maine, where he worked alongside family and friends picking blueberries. Following the blueberry season, he continued his travels to participate in the annual potato harvests. These experiences helped shape his strong work ethic, resilience, and appreciation for family and community connections.
Loli’s faith was an important part of his life, and he carried his religious values with humility, gratitude, and devotion. He was honoured to make pilgrimages to the sacred grounds of St. Anne de Beaupré and faithfully until he was mobile to attend the annual St. Anne Mission on Chapel Island, where he found strength, peace, and spiritual connection. His faith guided him throughout his life and remained a source of comfort, hope, and inspiration to those around him.
Loli had a deep love for powwows and cultural gatherings, where he felt most connected to his family, community, and Mi’kmaw traditions. He rarely missed an opportunity to attend a powwow, enjoying the music, dancing, laughter, and reunions with friends and relatives. One of his greatest joys was sharing his passion for Kojua dancing. With pride and enthusiasm, Loli would often step onto the dance floor, eager to show off his Kojua dance moves and encourage others to join in. His energy, confidence, and love for the tradition brought smiles to those around him and inspired younger generations to embrace and celebrate their culture. Whether dancing among family or performing for a crowd, Loli carried the spirit of Kojua in his heart and shared it with everyone he met.
One of Loli’s greatest passions was preserving and sharing the Mi’kmaw tradition of Kojua dancing. Taught by his father alongside his siblings, Kojua became an important part of his life and identity. He danced with pride, passion, and joy, inspiring younger generations to embrace their culture and traditions. His dedication to keeping this important cultural practice alive was recently recognized when he received a Lifetime Achievement Award for Kojua Dancing, alongside his siblings Joanie and Ricky Gould.
Loli was deeply respected within his community for his kindness, generosity, and willingness to help others. He never hesitated to offer a smile, a story, a laugh, or a helping hand. Whether spending time with family, sharing cultural teachings, attending community gatherings, or simply enjoying the company of friends, he made everyone feel valued and welcome.
For the past 17 years, Loli called Mawita’mk home. The staff and residents became like an extended family to him. He was cared for with dignity, compassion, and genuine love, and in return he brought warmth, laughter, friendship, and kindness to those around him. He created many meaningful relationships during his time there and enjoyed participating in activities, sharing stories, and brightening the days of staff, residents, and visitors alike. The care, respect, and support he received at Mawita’mk allowed him to live with comfort, happiness, and a sense of belonging. His family will always be grateful for the love and care shown to him throughout his years there. Loli’s familiar handmade birdhouses will leave a lasting mark at Mawita’mk, serving as a beautiful reminder of his creativity, generosity, and the joy he brought to everyone around him.
Loli’s legacy lives on through his family, his cultural teachings, his laughter, and the countless lives he touched. He will be remembered as a proud Mi’kmaw man, a devoted family member, a cultural ambassador, and a friend to all. Though his physical presence is gone, his spirit will continue to dance through every Kojua song, every family gathering, and every cherished memory shared by those who loved him.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff, residents, and caregivers at Mawita’mk for the exceptional care, friendship, and compassion shown to Loli throughout his years there.
Keep it cool- Loli Gould.
Visitation will begin after 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 6 in the We’koqma’q Community Centre, 15 Reservation Rd. Funeral mass will be 10 a.m. Monday from Blessed Kateri Parish, We’koqma’q with Father Joby Augustin officiating. Burial in the parish cemetery. Words of comfort may be forwarded to the family at www.haverstocks.com
