The late James Thomas McKenzie served as chief in the 1980s. (Image Credit: Lac La Ronge Indian Band)

By Derek Cornet

respected leader

LLRIB announces death of former chief

Apr 6, 2026 | 1:41 PM

The Lac La Ronge Indian Band (LLRIB) has announced the passing of former chief James Thomas (Tom J.) McKenzie of Stanley Mission.

He’s being described as a beloved community member, and one of the most dedicated leaders in LLRIB history. McKenzie’s connection to the band and Kitsaki Management Limited Partnership spanned more than four decades.

He served as chief from 1983 to 1985, and as a band councillor, providing steady and principled leadership during a formative time in the LLRIB’s governance. In the 1980s, McKenzie played a key role in the early development of Kitsaki, serving as operations manager in 1987 as the organization established joint ventures with mining companies.

“Tom McKenzie was a dedicated and respected leader in our community whose decades of work in governance, economic development, and land rights leave a lasting legacy,” said Chief Tammy Cook-Searson.

“His guidance, generosity, and determination will be deeply missed. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and to the Stanley Mission community during this difficult time.”

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Since 1995, MCKenzie served as LLRIB’s land claims coordinator, leading negotiations for numerous land and Treaty claims. At the time of his passing, he was working toward final settlements for the Timber and Loss of Use claims, and was a key negotiator in securing the Agricultural Benefits Settlement Agreement.

A wake will be held Tuesday at Stanley Mission’s Holy Trinity Anglican Church, which will be followed by a funeral on Wednesday.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com