Figure 1 Publishing is saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend and collaborator, Ione Christensen (1933–2025) on September 15, 2025, in Whitehorse, Yukon.

Ione was elected in 1975 as the first woman mayor of Whitehorse, and in 1979 served as the commissioner of Yukon, being the first woman to be appointed to that role. In 1994, she was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada (CM). In 1999, Christensen was appointed at the recommendation of Prime Minister Jean Chrétien to the Senate. Throughout her life she was a champion of the people of the Yukon, a tireless community-builder, and avid outdoors person. She led the editorial committee that produced Whitehorse: An Illustrated History (Figure 1, 2013), an award-winning publication now in its second printing.

“I am so sad to hear that Ione has passed away. She holds a special place in my heart, and in the lore of Figure 1,” says Chris Labonté, Publisher & President of Figure 1 Publishing. “Whitehorse was one of the first books we signed. Ione placed great trust in our ability to produce a book worthy of the people of Whitehorse, past and present. Her faith in me and my team meant a lot at a time when we were just getting our feet beneath us. I will never forget this, and I will never forget her.”