Kurt Anthony Pocan, Jr., Wāpesken Awǣhsaeh (White Bear), began his journey to the spirit world on September 1, 2022. Kurt was born on June 25, 1999, to Dawn Gauthier and the late Kurt Pocan Sr. in Shawano, Wisconsin. He was a graduate of the Menominee Indian High School. Kurt loved family and took the best care of his mom and sisters. He received a ton of nicknames and was warmly referred to as "Botz" by his mom. He will be remembered most for his bright spirit, smile, and the happiness he brought to others.

Kurt called Chickney Creek home and he spent much of his time there with his family and friends. His favorite past times were playing X-Box Live and spending time with his family at the Gauthier Lake lot. He loved his friends and was always there to help them. Kurt was employed at the Menominee Tribal Enterprises sawmill operation. He was so proud to be a part of the green chain and mill and had a good crew of brothers that helped him along the way.

Kurt is survived by his mother Dawn Gauthier and sisters Summer and Winter Pocan; Maternal grandparents Leila "Pud" Gauthier (Kevin Kaquatosh) and Jerome Pecore; Paternal grandparent Alice "Chubby" Pocan; Godparents Frankie Reiter and Jennifer K. Gauthier; and lifelong friends Evan Munoz, Clint Gauthier, Josh Warrington, Lowell Chevalier, Brayden Webster, Jason Peters, Baby Dusty Corn, Tyrell Waukau, Ronnie Wescott, Anthony Allery and so many more. He is further survived by a loving extended family.

Kurt is preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Theodore "Jessie" and Cynthia Gauthier, paternal grandparents Edmund and Lorene Pocan, and father Kurt Pocan Sr.

Visitation will be held at the Gauthier family residence, N1250 State Highway 47, Neopit beginning on Sunday, September 4, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. Traditional services will be held for Kurt at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 6, 2022, at the Gauthier family residence with Dave Nahwahquaw officiating.  Burial will take place at the Gauthier family cemetery.