A Tribute to Rhody Lake

As I write these words, it has been over a week since Rhody disappeared from her home in Sechelt on the Sunshine Coast, BC. Five days later, the search was called off.

Dozens of volunteers came forward to search for the well-known writer and lifestyle activist Rhody Lake, who had not been seen since heading out for a walk from her home Sunday afternoon. Intense searching failed to turn up any sign of her, and given the colder temperatures, authorities think it unlikely anyone could survive for this length of time outdoors.

Ms. Lake, 80, was editor of alive Magazine from 1991 to 2002.

During Rhody’s tenure, I was publisher of alive and I always enjoyed a very special relationship with her. Rhody was unique; a clear thinker and good writer with a keen sense of truth and righteousness. Before she joined alive full-time in 1991, Rhody submitted articles regularly to the magazine from which I not only came to understand her thorough knowledge and understanding of natural health and nutrition, but also her real love for the health food movement in Canada. It was this dedication and knowledge which prompted me to appoint her to the important and responsible position of editor.

Rhody was blessed with a rather uncomplicated nature, and being editor of alive enabled her to speak through the written word directly to our readership. Her deep commitment and mission was to help individuals and to share her knowledge, motivating and directing readers to a healthy and happy lifestyle.

However, as a herald of natural health, she soon discovered opposition to her views and those of the health and nutrition movement. The health food industry experienced enormous pressure from many opponents including drug companies and food giants, the Canadian government, and the College of Physicians and Surgeons. As an activist Rhody spoke out against food irradiation, the introduction of growth hormones (BGH), and the legalization of genetic engineering of food plants. She supported the fight for Dr. Krop and the infamous court case brought against him.

Because of her boldness and staunch support for the truth, Rhody had many friends and admirers. Says J. Mark Taylor, MH, Citizens for Choice in Health Care board member, “Rhody Lake is one of the best people in Canada to drive a campaign for a citizen-based foundation for health care. Her name is synonymous with both promotion and protest and an appropriately critical mind.”

During her ten years with alive, Rhody accompanied my wife Christel and me on many overseas tours and health vacations organized for our readers. During those trips we experienced much quality time together and became close friends, sharing our Christian beliefs.

In her short retirement Rhody devoted most of her time to artistic activities. She loved sculpting, writing, and gardening. Above all she enjoyed her nature walks and spending time with her God.

We share the heartfelt pain of deep sorrow with Rhody’s grieving family; may God’s abundant love and grace comfort them.