In memory of Qaunnaq

He was murdered not long ago,

There is not a day that passes without me thinking of him.

Little brother, my heart yearns for him, missing him terribly, his sweet voice asking me: “Got some coins?” I hear it all the time.

A year has passed since my little brother passed away, yet he continues to be on my mind. Unforgettable, for he lived among us.

I think upon Qaunnaq’s friends with pride, since they befriended him though he would live such a short life. I appreciate them. God be with you.

I miss you tall brother. We are fine, your Aippaq Lucy is fine too, she has a little sister now, Irruasiaq, who is adorable. We have sweets at home that you used to like so much, and cigarettes too. I’ve also got a two dollar coin. I miss you, we miss you.

When you arrived one day, a baby in an amautik, there was great joy, which remains in my heart to this day. That time, your little hands and feet, they were all blue. We so looked forward to your arrival, the whole family, and this bundle of joy came in.

Qaunnaaq, we think of you this week more more than usual. We are fine, having accepted that you are no longer on earth with us. You are in my thoughts. When we go hunting, you were always with us.

Your presence is sorely missed, and I miss going hunting with you.

Inuuk, you left us with peace and patience, and hope. We shall continue to walk on the good path. Inuuk, I am sorry for having been unkind to you, and that your life ended so suddenly. Inuuk, I love you and want to see you.

This is in memory to Qaunnaq who died one year ago. He died in pain and we, as a family, also felt the pain.

These words were written by the family, Annie Uqaittuq, Juanie Uqaittuq, Leah Angiyou, Laly Irqumiaq, Dora Koperqualuk, Mathew Uqaittuq, Raingie Uqaittuq, Lisa Koperqualuk, Jimmy Uqaittuq, Alasie Koperqualuk, and Tuamie Uqaittuq.

Lisa Koperqualuk
Montreal