January 2026 — Friends and family of Trevor Dubois are speaking out to share who he truly was, days after his death at Royal University Hospital. While questions remain about the circumstances surrounding his passing, those closest to him say his life should be remembered for compassion, kindness, and service to others.
Remembered for His Laughter and Kindness
Jermain McKenzie remembers Trevor Dubois for his infectious laugh and sharp sense of humor. He said Dubois could make people laugh until they cried.
McKenzie last spoke to Dubois on Christmas Day, wishing him a speedy recovery while he was undergoing treatment for a brain tumor. Just days later, McKenzie learned that his friend had died.
“He lived his whole life trying to help people who were less fortunate,” McKenzie said.
Shock After Hospital Incident
Dubois died on Friday following a physical altercation with hospital security while receiving cancer treatment at Royal University Hospital.
Authorities have released limited information, but friends say the version being presented does not match the man they knew. His family says they are still waiting for clear answers from police and the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
A Life Dedicated to Helping Others
Those close to Dubois say helping people was central to who he was. He supported Indigenous communities, the 2SLGBTQ+ community, students, people with disabilities, and anyone in need.
“He had a huge impact,” McKenzie said. “The outpouring of support online shows how many lives he touched.”
Stories That Show His Character
McKenzie shared a memory of Dubois teaching him how to drive in his brand-new car. Even when roads became icy, Dubois stayed calm and focused on helping his friend gain confidence.
“He wasn’t worried about the car,” McKenzie said. “He cared about me learning.”
A Welcoming and Open Heart
Carmen Charles, who knew Dubois for more than 25 years, described him as loving, welcoming, and openly proud of who he was.
“He had an aura that lit up the room,” she said. “He never hid who he was.”
She recalled how Dubois welcomed her family into his home when they had nowhere to stay during Christmas in Ottawa.
“He always had his door open,” Charles said.
Friends Question Police Claims
Charles said she was deeply upset after reading reports mentioning a fake gun and drug paraphernalia.
“Trevor was against anything that caused harm,” she said. “That doesn’t align with who he was.”
The family believes the item described as an imitation firearm was actually a cigarette case and lighter.
Always Showing Up for Others
Another friend, Cody Demerais, said Dubois helped him start a business by guiding him through paperwork, grants, and applications.
Demerais also shared a story where Dubois allowed a young person without housing to stay in his basement suite. That person later stole Dubois’ car.
“He didn’t speak badly about them,” Demerais said. “He hoped they would turn their life around.”
A Loving Brother and Community Advocate
Trevor’s brother, Ryan Dubois, described him as “the best brother someone could ask for.”
“He didn’t have a malicious bone in his body,” he said.
Dubois was Métis and later became a member of the Muskoday First Nation. His family said he worked closely with First Nations youth, especially those struggling with mental health in northern Saskatchewan.
Family Still Seeking Answers
As grief continues to pour in online, Dubois’ family says they are focused on remembering his life while awaiting answers about his death.
They hope the public understands Trevor Dubois not by the final moments of his life, but by the countless people he helped along the way.
