Former NHL player Raymond Sawada passes away during a hockey game
We are deeply saddened to inform you that we have recently lost a beloved member of our hockey community. Raymond Sawada, a retired NHL player and Burnaby firefighter, passed away on Monday while playing in a recreational hockey game. Our thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends during this difficult time.
Raymond Sawada was a talented athlete who was drafted by the Dallas Stars in 2004, as the 52nd overall pick. He played in 11 NHL games and scored one goal during his time with the Stars. However, the majority of his professional career was spent playing in the American League and in Europe.
After retiring from professional hockey, Sawada pursued his passion for firefighting and joined the Burnaby Fire Department. He was a respected member of the firefighting community and will be remembered for his dedication and bravery in serving his community.
The loss of Raymond Sawada is deeply felt by all who knew him, and his legacy will live on through his contributions to both the hockey and firefighting communities.
NHL player Troy Stetcher idolized Sawada and shared this touching message on social media, along with a link to a gofundme page for Sawada's family:
Heart breaking news. Ray was an idol for a lot of Richmond Minor Players growing up. Not only was Ray a successful hockey player, he was a community hero and local firefighter. Thoughts and prayers to his family.https://t.co/T0VIyroTVY� Troy Stecher (@troystecher) April 12, 2023
The cause of death has not been announced, but we would like to offer our sincerest condolences to his friends and family during this tough time.
May he rest in peace.
