The Diocese of Algoma mourns the death of Ida Mekanak, a faithful Diocesan Lay Reader and Elder from Webequie First Nation, who died on February 18, 2026, at the age of 83.
Dr. Carol Knox writes that Ida “still did her ministry in the service and as Diocesan Lay Reader gave the dismissal in her language” only days before her death, embodying her conviction that she “would serve in the church as long as she is physically able to.”
A residential school survivor, Ida’s ministry grew from deep faith and perseverance. She served as a Lay Reader at Church of the Messiah in Webequie and at St. Paul’s in Thunder Bay. Knox recalls that Ida began her ministry at St. Paul’s by coming forward “to pray the Lord’s Prayer in her Indigenous language during the Eucharistic Prayer,” later being appointed a Parochial Lay Reader and eventually trained as a Diocesan Lay Reader.
Her ministry extended well beyond parish walls. Ida “served in the community attending bedsides of those ill at home or dying in the hospital and attended funerals as support.” She also helped lead a monthly Book of Common Prayer service with reserved sacrament in Cree at Wequedong Lodge for many years.
Knox reflects personally: “One of the joys in my life was being Ida’s friend and colleague in ministry for almost 20 years. Her infectious laugh will be missed by many.” She adds, “Ida is in the closer presence of her Creator now and we will see her again there in the future.”
The Diocese gives thanks for Ida’s faithful witness, her leadership in worship and pastoral care, and the gift of her voice, prayer, and presence in both Webequie and Thunder Bay. Please pray for her family, friends, and community.
Read the full obituary and share condolences here: https://www.echovita.com/ca/obituaries/on/thunder-bay/ida-mekanak-21146932
May she rest in peace and rise in glory.