Remembering John Ashbridge

... the longtime public address announcer of the Vancouver Canucks passed away on Tuesday June 5th.

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By Bernie Pascall @BerniePascall / Vancouver Canucks Alumni

It's with heavy hearts that we say farewell to a friend and an integral member of the Vancouver Canucks Alumni.
John Ashbridge, the longtime public address announcer of the Vancouver Canucks passed away on Tuesday June 5th at the age of 71. A legendary B.C. broadcaster, Ash, died just a few months after being diagnosed with cancer.

He will be remembered for his dedication and commitment to the Canucks and Canucks Alumni. John was a member of the Alumni communications team, at times "assistant trainer", as well as the "voice" at the various charitable games throughout the province.
Ash retired from CKNW after 40 years as a prominent news voice. He later became the PA announcer of the Canucks starting in the 1987-88 season. In recent years, John was the PA announcer for the Vancouver Giants of the WHL. He also did the announcing at the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver.
He told me that one of his proudest moments was announcing the ceremonial puck-drop by the Queen prior to a Canucks - San Jose game in 2002.

Ashbridge was very generous with his time and talents. Hockeywise, he was named recipient of the NHL Alumni's "7th Man Award" in 2000. He was also a past winner of the Milford Award. He was engaged in many charitable causes including serving on the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation's Board of Directors. Ash also voiced the Crime Stoppers Radio and Television public service announcements. He was named Crime Stoppers International Civilian of the Year in 2010.
Born June 8th, 1946 in Hastings, Sussex in England, John succumbed to cancer June 5th in New Westminster, British Columbia.
He was a special person… talented, dedicated, liked a good laugh and was sincere. John Ashbridge was the definition of a true professional. He will be greatly missed and forever remembered. Our deepest condolences to Yvonne and the family.
Ash leaves a lasting legacy in BC.

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Colleagues, broadcasters, NHL'ers and the Vancouver sports community all expressed their condolences.

Tweet from @BCLions: Our thoughts are with the family of legendary broadcaster and stadium voice John Ashbridge, who has passed away at the age of 71. #RIP

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