The Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association and Eeyou Istchee Tourism mourn the loss of our dear friend and colleague, Captain James Edward Georgekish, who many knew as “Cap.” With his ever-present smile and quiet strength, Captain James was a steadfast and skillful guide who led by example, both on and off the water.
Captain James was an important part of Wiinipaakw Tours Solidarity Cooperative (WTSC) from the very beginning, graduating with our very first captains’ class in 2016-17 before becoming a founding member in 2018. He took on the role of captain with humility, curiosity, and commitment, taking every opportunity to learn new skills and contribute to WTSC’s success. He eagerly attended the supplemental Marine Captain Training Program in 2019 and was a joyful presence during our 2022 Marine Ecotourism Best Practice Tour. He absorbed new knowledge and information thoughtfully and with genuine openness, always using what he learned to strengthen WTSC and the Cree tourism industry.
We will dearly miss Captain James’ presence at our Annual General Meetings and Tourism Conferences, where he once again took every chance to listen and learn in support of WTSC’s growth and success. At the last such event in September 2024, he proudly accepted Wiinipaakw Tours’ COTA Recognition Award for “Startup of the Year” during our awards gala. The memory of him walking up to accept the award surrounded by well-deserved applause will always be cherished in our hearts.
Captain James’ wisdom, humour, and commitment were an example to us all and left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Although we are heartbroken by this loss, we are grateful for the time we had with Cap, for his contribution to the Cree tourism industry, and for the many lessons he taught all of us along the way.
Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and community.
