Forever a Canuck

Last night at Rogers Arena, the Vancouver Canucks honored Rick Rypien's memory with his family in attendance.  His best friend on the team and also one of his pallbearers, Kevin Bieksa,  presented a Canucks Jersey with Rypien's number to Rick's brother, Wes Jr. Rypien.  He then hugged all the family members and held on to Shelly Crawford, Ryp's mother.  That was a hard moment for both of them.  Neither wanted to let go.  A video was then shown of Rick's life from his childhood to his NHL career to the song "Superman" from Five for Fighting.  The song was perfect.  It was an emotional night for all the fans, players and family of Rypien.   The Canucks organization also donated $50,000 to a fund that will help children to deal with Depression.  The Canucks wore the number #37 on the back of their helmets and will do so for the rest of the 2011-2012 year in his honor.

Rick Rypien was a popular player in the city of Vancouver.  He played for the Manitoba Moose with Kesler, Bieksa, Raymond and others for many years and they all played together in the NHL for Vancouver.  They were friends as well as teammates. His popularity started rising as fans started to appreciate what he brought to the team every game night.  His jersey's were flying off the shelves.  He was known as a fighter and someone who would go to battle for anyone on his team.  No matter if they were a foot taller than him or not, he stood up to them for his team.  He was involved with the local charities and gave his time to children.  I never met him personally, but from what I've heard of about him, he had a great heart.  

Rick embodied  Courage, Honor, Integrity, Humility and Passion.  He had the Heart of a Canuck and will forever remain a Canuck.  Rest in Peace, Rick Rypien.  You will be missed by a city who loved you.

Rick Rypien Ceremony