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October 26, 2020

Statement On The Passing Of David Braley

The Calgary Stampeders extend condolences to the family and friends of BC Lions owner David Braley, who passed away Monday morning at the age of 79.

Owner of the Lions since 1997, Braley was a pillar of the Canadian Football League and one of its most ardent supporters. Over the years, he also was owner of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (1987-90) and Toronto Argonauts (2010-15), served as chair of the CFL’s board of governors and was the league’s interim commissioner for the 2002 season. He was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2012.

Stampeders head coach Dave Dickenson played for Braley’s Lions from 2003-2007.

“I was very saddened to hear about the passing of Mr. Braley,” said Dickenson. “We certainly were not in touch as often as we were in the previous decade, but I will always know he is forever embedded in the fabric of the CFL.

“David and his friends, Bob Ackles and Wally Buono, threw me a lifeline back in 2003 and promised me better days were ahead in the BC Lions’ future. I felt like we all built something special in the mid-2000s in BC, culminating in a Grey Cup Championship in 2006. What was even more special was the support and drive of our three-headed management team. David was the backbone to all of our success and he became the backbone for the entire CFL.

“Life must move on, but I think it is important to reflect on the passing of a CFL giant. Thank you for all you did, and let there be hope that somebody reading my words will try and follow your enormous footsteps. We could use someone with your energy and your heart. Rest in peace.”