The last time Patrick Garland saw Joshua Qiyuk was as the young chef was heading home after a shift at Garland’s eatery. Garland recounted how they exchanged farewells, with Qiyuk expressing gratitude and looking forward to the next day. Tragically, the following morning, Qiyuk’s lifeless body was discovered in the serene residential locale of Ottawa’s east end, having been fatally stabbed at the age of 21.
Matthieu Boisvert, a resident in the neighborhood, stumbled upon Qiyuk’s body that fateful Wednesday morning, describing the experience as surreal. Boisvert acknowledged the shock but emphasized the greater impact on Qiyuk’s loved ones and acquaintances.
Known for his enthusiasm and work ethic, those who crossed paths with Qiyuk in Ottawa fondly recall him as a diligent young man who constantly wore a smile. Garland vividly recounted their initial encounter over two years ago when Qiyuk, then a teenager, approached the restaurant seeking employment. Impressed by Qiyuk’s readiness and passion, Garland promptly hired him, lauding his swift transition into an essential team member.
A celebrated Inuk chef, Trudy Metcalfe-Coe, reflected on her mentorship of Qiyuk, noting his pride in his heritage and his contributions to events featuring traditional indigenous cuisine. Qiyuk’s recent completion of a culinary certification program at Algonquin College was a testament to his dedication and aspirations within the culinary field.
Metcalfe-Coe mourned Qiyuk’s untimely demise as a significant loss for the culinary industry, particularly in a city with scarce Inuit representation. She expressed the profound impact of Qiyuk’s passing, emphasizing his unfulfilled dreams and the shared aspirations within the culinary community.
