Ione Christensen, a prominent figure in Yukon politics and a beloved community member, passed away on Monday at the age of 91. Known for her groundbreaking achievements, Christensen was the first woman to serve as mayor of Whitehorse and later became a senator. She is also remembered for her cherished century-old sourdough starter, which she kept in her refrigerator.

Christensen's political career began in 1975 when she won the mayoral election, defeating seven male candidates. She continued to break barriers by becoming the first female commissioner of the Yukon in 1979 and the first female senator from the territory in 1999. Born in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, she moved to Whitehorse as a teenager and became a fourth-generation Yukoner.

NDP Leader Kate White reflected on Christensen's impact, stating, "The reality is, it's people like Ione who redefined what women could do in politics. She lived her life on her terms and she did really incredible things." White emphasized that Christensen's legacy made it easier for women to enter political arenas.

In addition to her political accomplishments, Christensen was the first woman in the Yukon to be named a justice of the peace and the first woman appointed as a judge in juvenile court. Geraldine Van Bibber, a Yukon Party Opposition MLA, described Christensen as a calm presence who was always willing to offer advice. "She was just living her ordinary life, and thought, 'well, I'm just going to do this. I've got this idea and I'm going to try it,'" Van Bibber said.

Christensen's sourdough starter, a living culture of yeast and bacteria, has a rich history. It was passed down from her great-grandfather, Wesley David Ballentine, who brought it to the Yukon during the gold rush in 1897. Chef Cat McInroy, who was entrusted with the starter in 2017, noted, "She was very proud that this thing has been in her family for so many years."

The starter has traveled the world, reaching bakers on all seven continents, including a research vessel in Antarctica. Christensen once described it as "a family pet, if you will," highlighting its significance in her life. McInroy stated that neither she nor Christensen were interested in monetizing the starter, emphasizing its cultural importance: "This is the Yukon sourdough. It belongs to no one and to everyone."

Yukon Premier Mike Pemberton praised Christensen's contributions, stating that she paved the way for future leaders. He referred to the sourdough starter, now preserved in the International Sourdough Library in Belgium, as "a fitting symbol of her enduring legacy."

Pemberton added, "Over her long life, Ione broke barriers in politics, law, and public service. She opened doors, inspired countless Yukoners, and showed the power of kindness, hard work, and courage. The Yukon is stronger because of her."

Christensen's legacy will continue to inspire future generations in the Yukon and beyond.