Francis Michael Tribble, age 85, of Lac Courte Oreilles, WI, a revered leader, activist, and visionary, passed away Friday, March 21, 2025, surrounded by his children.

Mike was born August 12, 1939, in Hayward, WI, the son of Fredrick and Mary (Corbine) Tribble. A proud advocate for Indigenous rights, he dedicated his life to strengthening the sovereignty of the Anishinaabe people and Indigenous nations across the United States.

Mike was a leader in the American Indian Movement (AIM) and was instrumental in securing treaty rights through the landmark Voigt Decision of 1983, a ruling that reinforced the sovereign rights of the Anishinaabe and set a precedent for Indigenous legal victories nationwide. His relentless commitment to justice and self-determination reshaped history and empowered future generations. Beyond activism, Mike served as the Economic Development Coordinator for the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribe, where his grant-writing efforts helped establish critical community institutions, including the tribal clinic, schools, bingo hall, and casino. A dedicated entrepreneur, he was also a business owner and later became the Director of Table Games at the casino, fostering economic growth and opportunity for his people. Respected and loved within his community and beyond, Mike’s unwavering dedication to his people will never be forgotten. His contributions to Indigenous sovereignty and treaty rights will continue to shape the future for generations to come.

Mike’s legacy lives on through his eight children: Phyllis (Scott) Kirchner, Terry (Rachel) Tribble, Michael (Laura) Tribble, Lynette (Paul) Tribble, Jeff (Desiree) Tribble, Sheila (Mark) Barczak, Kyle (Jill) Tribble, and Kari (Justin) Tribble. He was a beloved grandfather to 24 grandchildren and great-grandfather to 23 great-grandchildren, all of whom carry forward his strength, wisdom, and enduring spirit.

A Celebration of Mike’s Life will be held at 12:00 noon, Friday, March 28, 2025, at Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University in the Pipe Mustache Auditorium. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the college.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Mike's GoFundMe at https://gofund.me/e1a2bfe3 or directed to Suzie Tribble-Moran the day of the service.

Miigwech, Mike, for your wisdom, leadership, and unyielding commitment to justice. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

Last Update: Mar 26, 2025 1:26 pm CDT