Carmen Toccoa Chippewa

Carmen Toccoa Chippewa – Lahti of Sugar Island, MI (age 76) a strong, traditional, Anishnabe Kwe citizen of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians started her journey to the Spirit World on October 11, 2021.

Carmen was born in St. Louis, MO on October 1, 1945 to Oscar Joseph Chippewa of Suttons Bay, MI and Winngene Ruth Peter of Grand Rapids, MI. She grew up in Wyoming MI, with her adoptive parents (her uncle and aunt) John and Eleanore Bosin of Grand Rapids, MI. 

Carmen graduated from Kelloggsville High School where she was a cheerleader and member of the Pep Club.  She participated in many powwows for the Grand Valley American Indian Lodge from which her adopted father was a Sub-Chief and head drummer. 

Later in life, Carmen came to live in the Upper Peninsula.  She quickly made close friendships with her coworkers and the local community in her 20 plus years at Kewadin Casino.  She was a force of nature with a genuine love and appreciation for her co-workers, customers, and the Tribe. It was here, she met her husband Dave Lahti.  They married in 2004 and loved spending time at their Sugar Island home.

She is survived by her husband: Dave Lahti and his loving daughters; and her 3 children Ronald Allen Crow, Tricia Marie Crow of Grand Rapids, and Tan-A Hoffman (DJ) of Sault Sainte Marie, MI; siblings, Douglas Bosin, Sandra Bosin (sister-in-law); 7 grandchildren, 3 great grandchildren; many cherished nieces and as well as so many loving friends. 

She is preceded by her parents as well as her sister Lorraine Shephe, Brother Warren Bosin, and sister-in-law Marie Bosin. 

There will be a traditional Anishinaabe ceremony at the Niigaanagizhik building in Sault Sainte Marie, MI.   Viewing will be Thursday October 14th at dusk and a ceremony Friday October 15th at 10:00 am. A traditional burial will immediately be held at Willwalk cemetery for immediate family members.

The Family requests in lieu of flowers donations be  made to the Hospice of the EUP 308 W. 12th, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, in Carmen’s name.