Former Vancouver Canuck Rick Rypien was found dead in his Alberta home on August 15, and fans have planned a memorial to honour the hockey player later today.
RCMP have determined that Rypien’s death is not suspicious, but they are not releasing specific details on how he died.
A memorial has been planned for Wednesday, from 2 to 8 p.m. outside Rogers Arena, and fans are invited to come down and write in a book of condolences for the young athlete.
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The Vancouver Canucks released a statement on Rypien’s death Monday night saying:
“It is with tremendous sadness that the Vancouver Canucks confirm the passing of Rick Rypien. Rick has been a beloved member of the Canucks family for the past six years. Rick was a great teammate and friend to our players, coaches and staff. We send our deepest condolences to the Rypien family at this most difficult time.”
Rypien had recently signed a one-year contract with the Winnipeg Jets after spending some time with the Maintoba Moose after his stint with the Canucks.
Hockey players expressed their shock and sadness on Twitter after the news was confirmed Rypien had passed away.
Ryan Whitney wrote: “Awful news about the passing of Rick Rypien. Rest in Peace.”
Former Moose teammate Bill Sweatt wrote: “Tragic story. #rickrypien found dead. This is just terrible. RIP rick. You were a great teammate and friend.”
So far, more than 450 people have said they will attend Rypien’s memorial.
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