On a stormy December day in 1985, a tragic event unfolded in the waters of Georgian Bay, leading to the disappearance of two young men. Twenty-year-old Curtis Smith, a male from Tiny, Ontario, was last seen on December 22, 1985, alongside his friend, Ralph Monague, who was also 20 years old. The two were passengers on the Christian Island Ferry, making the journey from Cedar Point to Christian Island amidst turbulent weather conditions. The ferry operator, aware of the dangers posed by the storm, had instructed all passengers to remain inside the main cabin for their safety.
Despite the explicit warnings, Smith and Monague made their way to the outside deck of the ferry. As the vessel battled the tempestuous waves, a particularly large wave crashed over the side, striking the two men and sweeping them overboard into the frigid waters of the bay. The sudden and violent force of the wave left no opportunity for a quick rescue in the chaotic and dangerous conditions.
The crew of the ferry was alerted to the incident, but the severe weather and the immediate disappearance of the two men into the tumultuous water made any rescue attempt perilous and ultimately unsuccessful.
The disappearance of Curtis Smith and Ralph Monague prompted an extensive search, but the unforgiving conditions of a winter storm on Georgian Bay hampered the efforts of rescuers. In the days and weeks that followed, hope of finding the young men alive faded, and eventually, the search transitioned into a recovery mission. However, despite the efforts of law enforcement and community members, the bodies of both Curtis Smith and Ralph Monague were never recovered. The incident stands as a somber reminder of the power of nature and the profound loss experienced by the families and their community. The case remains a painful and unresolved chapter for the loved ones of the two young Indigenous men who were lost to the stormy waters that day.Last Seen: Dec 22, 1985
