A young kayaker, Charles-Élie Mercier of Ste. Mathilde, Quebec went missing on Aug. 11 in the area of Forteau, Labrador. He was on a solo excursion and was attempting to kayak from Blanc Sablon, Quebec to Newfoundland.
The young adventurer disappeared, and despite a search by police, Canadian Coast Guard, Fisheries and Oceans, Canadian Rangers, and Canadian Armed Forces, his body was not recovered.
A kayak similar to his was found during the search.
Now there are plans to put a plaque in his honor near Blanc Sablon. A GoFundMe page has been set up to raise funds for the plaque.
On the GoFundMe page, organizers said Mercier left Quebec in June and was on his 57th day of his solo trip on the St. Lawrence.
The plan is to put the plaque in Blanc Sablon near the river and the ocean he loved so much.
The plaque will commemorate his trek and his disappearance.
It will also be a reminder to other kayakers and adventurers that as beautiful as the sea is, it can also be powerful and dangerous.
Mercier was described as an open, intelligent and adventurous person. His parents have asked for privacy.
It was also pointed out that if the funds collected exceed the cost of the plaque and its installation, the excess donations will be given to La Maison Dauphine and La Maison Lauberiviere, two organizations that provide for the homeless and people in need that Mercier supported.
The GoFundMe initiative has already raised $3,875 of its $3,000 goal.
As well, students at Laval University in Quebec City, where he was a student, paid tribute to Mercier.
“He was known for his bright spirit, his big smile and his originality,” wrote the Quebec City – SEG Student Chapter Facebook group. They say he will be missed.
