This is posted on the Beach Radio website:Vernon Vipers Owner Passes Away
Vernon, BC, Canada / 1075 Beach Radio Vernon
Tom Mark
January 11, 2018
Shocking news today that the owner of the Vernon Vipers has died.
Duncan Wray, who has owned the franchise since 1992, passed away in his sleep last night.
The voice of the Vipers on Beach Radio, Graham Turnbull, says it’s a tragic loss.
“He’s been the one mainstay since the beginning. He’s bred success. That’s one thing that will always stand out with Duncan. He was so passionate about junior hockey, the BCHL, the Vernon Vipers, this community, that he brought a stable, winning presence to the organization.
Turnbull says Wray’s role as Chairman of the Board of the BCHL has helped the league trend in the right direction for a number of years.
On a personal note, Turnbull says the way Wray treated him was the way he treated everyone he dealt with.
“He treated me like I was a member of the family. He’d give me the shirt off his back if that’s what I needed. Was always there to support me and I know that was something that he did for a lot of people, outside of the organization as well as everybody up and down the office and the hockey staff as well.”
Graham says it is going to be a hard time for the players, but he knows that they will respond with respect and admiration.
“Guys like Jagger Williamson, who have been here for four years, they know the impact that Duncan has had and the love that he had for the team individually and as a group. I don’t think too much will have to be said. The actions and the thoughts will sort of speak for themselves.”
Turnbull says since buying the franchise in 1992, Wray turned it into the number one ranked Junior A
hockey franchise in the CJHL.
He also served on the Board of Governors of the BCHL since 1992 and at the time of his death was the Chairman of the Board.
It’s a tragic loss for the Vernon Vipers and the city as a whole.
Duncan Wray, who has owned the Vernon Hockey Club since 1992 passed away in his sleep last night.
As owner, Wray guided the club to four national championships and runner-up in 2011.
The team won seven B.C. Hockey League championships and six Doyle Cup B.C.-Alberta championships.
Wray has also been serving as Chairman of the Board of the B.C. Hockey League.
Wow! This is shocking news and I'm saddened to hear this.
ReplyDeleteI just saw him last week at the civic arena walking around with his usual big smile and talking to fans like he always did.
This is a huge loss not just for the Vipers, but the city of Vernon and of course his family. My condolonces to the family, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Thank you Duncan for running arguably one of the most successful Jr.A franchises in Canada.
Deepest sympathies to the Wray family and the Vernon Viper organization. Duncan's passion, commitment and dedication to the Vipers was a major factor in our decision to chose Vernon. We are eternally grateful for the the opportunity to be part of your Viper family. First class. Thank You Duncan RIP.
ReplyDeleteThe Lamberts
I was in shock this morning when I first heard the sad news! I ran into Duncan at the Vipers game at the Civic Arena Saturday and we talked hockey. I still cant believe the news!
ReplyDeleteI have known Duncan for close to twenty years. Duncan was a big follower and viewer of my blog and was always one to say hi-talk hockey at every home game. Duncan has to be one of if not the longest running owner of a Junior hockey team in the BCHL in history. Duncan took over a Vernon Lakers dynasty and kept that going with the Viper name.
This is a huge loss for the Vipers and the rest of the BC Hockey League.
I would like to send my condolences to the family, friends and Viper organization. This is a very sad day in Vernon and for all Viper fans.
So many great memories, will never forget
RIP Duncan, You will be missed my friend.