The Prince George Cougars, as well as the entire community, is in mourning as one of its brightest stars off the ice has passed away.
Gary Samis, the long-time corporate sales manager of the Western Hockey League (WHL) franchise, died suddenly, but peacefully at St. Paul’s hospital in Vancouver on Monday (May 13) at 67 years old and the organization has released a statement following the loss.
“The entire Cougars family is deeply devastated to announce the sudden passing of Gary Samis,” the release says. “It’s hard to put into words the positive impact he had on our community. Like many, we’re struggling to cope with his loss, and will have more to say about his legacy in the coming days.”
Our statement on the passing of a beloved colleague. pic.twitter.com/GZSfANvCJm
— PG Cougars (@PGCougars) May 16, 2019
Eight years ago, 'The Commish,' as he was called by the team, introduced and chaired the Prince George Cougars Alumni Hospital Charity Golf Tournament in raising money for the Spirit of the North Healthcare Foundation.
In the seven tournaments since 2012, the fundraiser has brought in almost $500,000, all because of Samis’ passion to help those in need at the University Hospital of Northern B.C. (UHNBC).
Along with his kind heart, Samis was also played a key role in launching the Prince George Cougars Alumni Association.
He leaves behind his wife Theresa, children Allyson and Ryan, and extended family.
The Prince George community has taken to social media today (May 16) expressing their condolences to the Samis family and their thoughts on Gary’s legacy since hearing the news.
Editor’s Note: I had the distinct pleasure of interacting with Gary across three seasons, both as a news reporter and as the Prince George Cougars public address announcer, and our conversations always ended with a hardy handshake, a pat on the back, and a warm smile you couldn’t forget.
He always put the needs of the community first before his own and his passion for people was second to none.
I will miss Gary Samis as I know many others will and I wish comfort for his wife and children.
