With deep sorrow and immense love, we announce the passing of Eva Lea Young on April 12, 2025, at the age of 23. Born a miracle-having received a liver transplant at just six months old, Eva lived her life with a strength, light, and joy that inspired all who knew her. Though her journey was marked by many hospital stays, she met every challenge with a brave heart, endless grace, and her signature radiant smile.

Eva was a ray of sunshine, an angel on Earth. She found joy in life's simple pleasures and shared her light freely. She loved going to concerts and cheering on the Winnipeg Jets with her beloved dad, Garfield, who raised her with unwavering love and devotion. She found peace in the outdoors, especially camping and hiking with friends, and found purpose in serving others through community involvement.

Eva proudly worked in roles that reflected her generous spirit and love for people, including positions at The Pas Public Library, Opaskwayak Cree Nation Security and Surveillance, the Aseneskak Casino, and the Kikiwak Inn front desk. Her warmth, humor and dedication left a lasting impression everywhere she went.

In 2023, she achieved one of her proudest milestones by graduating with her high school diploma from Oscar Lathlin Collegiate, a hard-earned accomplishment after missing many school days due to hospital visits. She had recently enrolled in the Culinary Arts program at University College of the North, determined to follow her passion, though her health prevented her from completing it.

Eva shared an unshakable bond with her grandmother Suzette, who helped raise her, and she deeply loved her Papa James, who predeceased her. She often wore his old jean jacket, comforted by the familiar scent of his love. He was her "number one babysitter," famously forgetting her at the beach once, a story that became a cherished family joke. His teasing phrase for her, "Sweetheart, you're no good for nothing," was always delivered with a laugh and a heart full of love.

Eva passed while awaiting a second liver transplant. Though her spirit remained strong and hopeful, her body had grown too tired. She left this world peacefully, surrounded by those she loved most.

With her that day were her dad Garfield, siblings Arianna (and her children Joel and Alyza), Elisha, and Xander, her mom Janet and her children Autumn, Jordan (Mandy), and Tsiana, her grandmother Suzette, aunt Trudy, and uncle Layne (Leia).

She is also lovingly remembered by a large extended family of aunties, uncles, and cousins-far too many to name, but each held close in her heart, along with friends, caregivers, and community members whose lives she brightened with her humor, strength and compassion.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Opaskwayak Cree Nation for their unwavering support of Eva throughout her 23 year health journey. The love, care, and encouragement from the community meant more than words can say, and helped carry Eva and her family through so many difficult times. If we forgot anyone it was not intentional.