Missing since Christmas, Orlando Okemaysim was last seen at Sturgeon Lake First Nation. Photo: RCMP
The communities of Sturgeon Lake First Nation and Beardy’s Okemasis Cree Nation in Saskatchewan are rallying around the family of Orlando Okemaysim, who hasn’t been seen since Christmas.
In an update posted to Facebook, the family says Okemaysim, 50, was last seen at 2 p.m. on Dec. 25 “in an extremely vulnerable state walking in the ditch just (past) the east village in Sturgeon Lake.”
“We are requesting anyone who may want to help come search please come out. Please check cameras,” the post urges.
A news release issued by Prince Albert RCMP Friday said the last official sighting was on Christmas Eve.
“On January 1, 2025 at approximately 2:00 p.m., Prince Albert RCMP received a report of a missing 50-year-old male, Orlando Okemaysim,” the release states.
“Orlando is described as approximately 5’9” tall and 240 lbs. He has brown eyes, medium-length black hair, and wears glasses. Orlando was last seen wearing a blue wool jacket and running shoes.”
Requesting volunteers
An earlier Facebook post from Sturgeon Lake First Nation (SLFN), 45 kilometres northwest of Prince Albert, requested volunteers.
Central Saskatchewan is in the midst of a bitter cold snap with the temperature hovering around -30.
“If you can volunteer with skidoos, ATV or even horse-riders, make contact…,” the post adds.
Volunteers are being directed to the Sturgeon Lake band office boardroom, which is serving as a command centre.
People are also being asked not to go looking on their own.
The family noted the communities have been “incredibly supportive in our active search of our brother Orlando.”
They say if anyone wants to provide support in prayer or in person, they are in Sturgeon Lake First Nation.
“We just want to bring him home,” they said.
