Former hockey pro Ray Sawada dies suddenly at B.C. rink

A 38-year-old former professional hockey player from Richmond, B.C., died suddenly Monday while playing recreational hockey at the Richmond Ice Centre.

Raymond Sawada collapsed while sitting on the bench, according to Richmond Sockeyes president Doug Paterson. Sawada was a star with the junior Sockeyes 20 years ago.

"It's been devastating," said Paterson. "It's just rocked our community."

Sawada leaves behind a wife and two young daughters. He had worked as a firefighter with the City of Burnaby since 2017.

Sawada spent the majority of his eight-year pro career in the American Hockey League and played 11 games with the NHL Dallas Stars. He graduated from the Sockeyes to the Junior A Nanaimo Clippers of the B.C. Hockey League and then went on to play four seasons at Cornell University.

Sawada was drafted by Dallas in the second round of the 2004 NHL entry draft.

Paterson said Sawada was a great guy who gave back to hockey by coaching his daughters and by staying involved with the Sockeye alumni.

"About five weeks ago, we invited him to come and speak to our players and give a little bit of a motivational speech," said Paterson. "My takeaway will always be to remember his sincere, impactful words to the players in our dressing room."

An online fundraiser started on behalf of the Sawada family had surpassed $230,000 from over 1,300 donors at the time of publication.

Paterson said the Sockeyes will be retiring Sawada's jersey next season.

Sawada became a firefighter after his hockey career, serving with the Burnaby Fire Department from 2017 onwards.

"Collectively, the department and union have made contact with the family to provide any support or assistance we may be able to bring in their time of need," read a letter to all firefighters from fire chief Chris Bowcock on Tuesday.

"The loss of Ray, a member that we each respect, value and care for, will be difficult and challenging. Please stay connected and support each other through what will be a very difficult time."

Bowcock added in his letter that Sawada's department badge number — 490 — would be held "in a special place in our history" and that Sawada would be remembered for his professionalism and commitment as a firefighter.