An estimated 500 people attended the funeral services of Constable Lenard E. Nordstrom on Tuesday afternoon in the Old Log Church. Constable Nordstrom was accidently drowned in Ear Lake, three miles south of Whitehorse last Saturday evening. He had entered the water with two other constables to bring a raft across a channel with fire wood for a group who were conducting a roast on the beach. The constable was seized by cramps and went down before aid could reach him. The other two constables are reported to have suffered shock from the severe cold water.
Estimated as one of the largest funerals to be held in Whitehorse, and certainly one of the most colorful, the RCMP, Air Force and Army attended.
The body lay in state, guarded by two RCMP constables during the church service. The remains were then carried to a waiting carriage by six members of the RCMP. The procession slowly moved along to Fourth Ave., led by the RCMP and followed by members of the Air Force and Army. The procession continued on Fourth Avenue to Steele Street where it turned west to the cemetary. A grave side ceremony was then conducted by Rev.
Chappel.
Constable Nordstrom was born at Viking, Alberta, on June 15, 1927. He is survived by his mother and brothers and sisters at Viking.
To all friends of the late Constable L. E. Nordstrom who so generously offered their services and deepest sympathy in the sorrow that came to his fellow members of the Force at his passing, we extend our sincerest thanks.
Needless to say we were all grief stricken at his loss, but we were
sustained by the many pleasant memories which only came about through close association at both work and play. Everyone admired him for his sincerity and devotion to duty and his readiness to assist any unfortunate. The fact that he was truly liked by all was confirmed
beyond doubt in the many tributes received and this will long be remembered by us to whom his sudden passing was a severe shock.
Again thanking those who so readily gave of their services in an effort to save his life at Ear Lake last Saturday night, and those who so kindly assisted at his funeral on Tuesday, we are
In deepest gratitude,
The Members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (Whitehorse Sub-Division.)
