The Port Alberni Bombers were devastated to learn of the passing away of Bobby McKenzie on July 3rd.
Our most sincere condolences go out to Bobby’s family and friends for this tragic loss.
The world feels darker for having lost the light that Bobby brought to every interaction with anyone who was fortunate enough to share one with him.
To Bobby’s family and friends: Thank you for sharing him with us.
Bobby embodied the dream that fueled the passion that brought the Bombers franchise to Port Alberni – the dream of giving an opportunity to local players to play for their home town team.
Bobby fought hard through training camp to make the team, and battled equally as dedicated in practice every day to earn an opportunity to play.
Bobby scored his first career Vancouver Island Hockey League goal on September 29th against the Comox Valley Glacier Kings.
Bombers Head Coach Brad Knight commented on Bobby as a player “ On nights when we needed some energy, care, and passion Bobby just knew we needed it and he brought it to us. He played because he loved the game, not because he had to”
Bombers Assistant Coach Mike Doucette said “Bobby was loved by his teammates and was very coachable and willing to fill any role that was asked of him. The hardest thing about being a hockey player is being the player that you are, and it’s a true testament to Bobby’s character as a person that he just did this naturally”
Bombers Captain Kai Verbrugge added “I have never met a person who looks out for his friends and teammates more than Bobby did. He would always put everyone first. Bobby was someone that every single guy on the team got along with. You never saw him without a smile on his face. He was a great ambassador for our team and any of the teams he played for, by giving it all he had, in everything he did. He was a great teammate and even better human. He will be missed immensely”