Jennifer McPhee
Northern News Services

Iqaluit (Mar 04/02) - Lena Naki Ekho, a loved and respected elder known for her compassion and dedication to Inuit values, died in Iqaluit Feb. 20.

Ekho was born in Umm-anaqjuaq around 1912. She later moved to a traditional Inuit outpost camp in Cumberland Sound where she met her husband, Tiglik.

The couple travelled by dog team with five of their children to Iqaluit in 1957. Although they planned just to visit, they ended up spending half their lives in Iqaluit.

Ekho believed in education and in holding onto Inuit culture and language. She devoted her time to community development and to the poor and needy. In the early 1960s, she worked in health promotion, bringing medicine to tuberculosis patients. She was a founding member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Anglican Church, a member of Pauktuutit in its early stages, involved in the federal housing movement and served on the Baffin Regional Health Board for several years.

Ekho had 10 children, adopted two sons, and was a foster mother to many others.

Mary Wilman, her daughter, said her mother's compassionate nature came from her traditional upbringing.

"In her day, you had to contribute. I think some people are just born with that caring aptitude. She visited and took care of the sick and she looked after her own mother for many years," Wilman said.

"I think, overall, my mother was a very concerned citizen, concerned for the best. In spite of all odds, she wanted us to persevere for the best. She believed in Inuit values and really lived that herself."

Although she faced many hardships in her life, including the threat of starvation when she lived on the land, Ekho was a survivor who focused on the positive.

"She knew her life very well and she shared many stories and legends," said Wilman.

Ekho also shared her knowledge with schools and local radio, giving talks about many subjects, including mid-wifery and traditional health.

"I'm glad I knew Mom as much as I did," said Wilman. "I'm glad I spent time closely with her and I'm especially glad my children and grandson knew her."