A Chisholm man was found deceased next to his overturned canoe on Shannon Lake, located approximately seven miles northeast of Chisholm. The St. Louis County Sheriff’s Office responded to the incident around 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday.

The deceased has been identified as 76-year-old Louis Vajdl. According to family members at the scene, Vajdl had told them he was heading out to check on wild rice, a task he had performed for many years. Authorities confirmed that Vajdl was not wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident.

Emergency responders from multiple agencies, including the Chisholm Ambulance, French Township First Responders, and the St. Louis County Rescue Squad, arrived promptly to assist.

The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with authorities awaiting the results from the Midwest Medical Examiner’s Office. At this time, officials do not suspect any foul play in connection with the death.

The community mourns the loss of Louis Vajdl, remembering him for his connection to the land and his long-standing tradition of caring for the natural environment.