Tributes are pouring in for a well-respected Inuvialuit leader who passed away suddenly last Friday in Inuvik.
Rory Voudrach died on Jan. 5 surrounded by his wife, daughters and extended family, the family announced on his business page, RKV Blades.
A celebration of life and sing-a-long were held at Ingamo Hall on Jan. 8 in his memory, and a memorial was held at the Inuvik Community Corporation at noon the following day. The family is asking anyone planning to make a donation to instead send the contribution to the Inuvik Youth Centre, which was an organization dear to Voudrach’s heart, and one for which he once served as chair.
Many local leaders are publicly expressing their sadness and shock at his sudden passing.
“A devoted family man, artist and musician, this is another passing that is tough to process,” said Gwich’in Tribal Council Grand Chief Ken Kyikavichik. “Our friend Rory was entirely committed to his Inuvialuit organization and only wanted to see Inuvik and other communities in the Beaufort-Delta region prosper. He was also a valuable member of the team over at the Inuvik Housing Authority, where he worked for many years.
“On behalf of the Gwich’in Tribal Council, I would like to extend heartfelt condolences to Rory’s wife Denise, his children Tamara, Trenyce and Keely Ann, his grandson and extended family.”
Voudrach was a prominent figure in Inuvik, singing and playing guitar at open stages, shows and other major events.
“On behalf of chair and CEO Duane Ningaqsiq Smith, the board of directors, and the staff of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, we offer our deepest condolences to the family of Rory Voudrach following his sudden passing,” wrote the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation in a statement. “Rory served as the chairperson of the Inuvik Community Corporation since November 2021, and as a director since 2016. Rory also served on the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation board of directors.
“His contributions, positive influence and guidance in the community will be remembered. During such times, it is important for the community to come together for support, reflection and to pay our respects.”
Friends and colleagues described him as a man who supported everyone he met, supporting community members in both their arts and life development. He was a longtime youth mentor and served the community on many boards and organizations throughout the years.
“I had the privilege of first meeting Mr. Voudrach on committee visits to Inuvik, where he spoke passionately and shared candidly as an advocate for NWT residents and more specifically Beaufort Delta residents,” said Kam Lake MLA Caitlin Cleveland. “His voice and heart left an indelible mark on that work.
“My deepest condolences to the entire Voudrach family, the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation and the people of the NWT who had the privilege of knowing and loving Rory.”
Donations to the Inuvik Youth Centre can be made in memory of Voudrach. Visit https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/inuvik-youth-centre-society/ to make a donation.
