Ottawa Gee-Gees defensive lineman Francis Perron passed away Saturday shortly after the team’s season opener on the road against the University of Toronto Varsity Blues.
No cause of death has been reported.
“A bright, passionate, and caring person, Francis poured himself into his craft as a player and his academic pursuit of becoming an engineer,” University of Ottawa president and vice-chancellor Jacques Fremont said in a statement.
Perron, from Sherbrooke, Que., was a two-time U Sports academic All-Canadian studying mechanical engineering in his fifth year at the University of Ottawa.
“Francis’ memory will live on through a vast network of loving family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched,” Fremont added. “On behalf of the University of Ottawa, I offer my condolences to his family, friends and loved ones. The thoughts of all members of our community are with you. I would also like to thank our colleagues at the University of Toronto for their steadfast support during this tragic event.”
The Gee-Gees lost 11-10 to the Blues in their season opener at Toronto’s Varsity Stadium.
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