Lisa Laco

Lisa Laco

Lisa Laco

• Accomplishments related to: Journalism
• Major affiliations: CBC Thunder Bay
• Date of death: 2021

When Lisa Laco came to Thunder Bay, the city would be forever changed.

Lisa was born and raised in Corner Brook, Newfoundland and started her CBC career there. But when she came to Thunder Bay in 1992, Lisa Laco found a new home, and the city had gained a new champion.

Lisa came to CBC Thunder Bay to take the helm of the morning show as a producer, but it was not long before Thunder Bay was happily waking to her voice. She was a popular host and respected journalist. Lisa was tireless in her efforts to bring important stories to light, and to give a voice to the people who should tell them. But she was also tireless in her efforts to celebrate the good – bringing people hope, happiness, and laughter.

Over Lisa’s 25 years hosting at CBC Thunder Bay, she interviewed thousands of people from all walks of life, pulling together the threads of our city and region, helping to weave the fabric of where we live. Listeners heard her compassion and understanding as she helped people share their stories of challenge or success. Yet she also asked the tough questions to hold people, groups, or government to account. Lisa shone a light on Thunder Bay's challenges and weaknesses, as well as the city’s strengths and triumphs. She inspired many to sit up, listen, and take action.

But it was much more than on-air accomplishments that made Lisa Laco a champion for Thunder Bay. Lisa participated in a range of projects with many organizations, whether it was a charity calendar, a library event, or moderating a municipal debate. In 2018, she received a Good Citizen Award from the City of Thunder Bay. It highlighted her work as a host and event emcee for several organizations over the years – including the Regional Food Distribution Association, Thunder Bay Victim Services, the Salvation Army, Thunder Bay Art Gallery, and Raag Rung Music Circle. The awards program stated, "Lisa is a very compassionate person who uses her passion to inspire others to help make our world a better place."

And the centre of Lisa’s world was Thunder Bay. This is where she met her husband of 27 years and where she happily raised her two sons. She was part of her community in so many ways – spending hours at city hockey rinks, making connections in her neighbourhood or church, and finding new places to roam with her dog.

Lisa retired from hosting Superior Morning in 2020 but her passion to help was unchanged. As a strong supporter of Indigenous people and a firm believer in reconciliation, she began a bursary fund for students at Dennis Franklin Cromarty High School. She knew the strength and determination it took for students to complete their education in Thunder Bay and wanted to support the students on their journeys through life.

As Lisa said when she retired: "Every life is a story. Thank you for being part of my story and thank you for sharing your stories over the years."

Lisa Laco interviewing Margaret Atwood