Stuart died on September 14, 2019 in Victoria, B.C. after a long battle with cancer. He was born in Christchurch, NZ on October 30, 1946. Stuart, and his wife, Sandy Drever, owned and operated the Victoria Squash Club for many years. He was predeceased by his parents, Pearce and June (nee Irvine) and his brother, John. He is survived by his wife, Sandy; sisters-in-law, Sharon Dixon and Skip (Dick) Angus and nephews, Bob, Sean, Michael, Andrew and Jeremy and their families.
A Celebration of Stuart’s Life will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive on Saturday, September 21, 2019 at 2:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC Cancer Agency, 2410 Lee Avenue, Victoria, B.C., V8R 6V5 or Victoria Hospice Society, 3rd Floor, Richmond Pavilion, 1952 Bay Street, Victoria, B.C. V8R 1J8.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
To watch a video recording of the service click here…
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Chet Stevens
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Barry Gifford Dear Sandy,
My sincere condolences on the passing of Stuart.
He was the person who convinced me to become a squash coach for life, 35 years ago. After taking his Level 1 NCCP course in Vancouver, Stuart ignited my desire to become the best I could be as a coach & player, as well to become a better person (like Stuart!). I have many fond memories on court in competive battles at the PAC Rim and National Championships Stuart hosted. As well, the after squash social activities made Stuart’s events so memorable. Thanks for opening your home to all of us Sandy — Stuart’s passion for life, squash, friendship and laughter will carry on in our hearts.
Barry Gifford
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Greg Henderson Stuart introduced me to squash in 1981 at his first Victoria club where I also met sandy
Having just lost my father I know the grief sandy must be feeling-so sorry
Because of Stuart’s passion I still play at age 63!
May he Rest In Peace
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Trevor Thom Dear Sandy,
I only just heard this news today. Please accept my condolences.
I will always remember Stuart as a mentor, a gentleman, a coach and a good friend. There is no one I know who showed as much passion for squash, and in particular, support for junior development.
He always had a way to help you learn from losses, to be humble with your victories, and to be kind and respect those around you. Stuart was also a dear friend to my Dad when he too was battling cancer in 2017-18.
I will never forget Stuart. He was a wonderful human being, and I feel blessed for having had the opportunity to call him a friend.
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Derrick Cameron I just learned this weekend of Stuart’s passing from my Vancouver Squash buddies. I have many fond memories of playing league and tournaments at Stuart’s club through the 90s, and then later bringing my son Eric up from Portland for the summer camps. Others in Portland learned of Stuart’s hospitality and came up year after year to play squash and have fun. Thank you Stuart for all the good times over the many years from our whole family (Shirley, Thomas, and Eric). I just wish Shirley and I could have seen Stuart one last time this past year.
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Shakiru Matti It was sad to hear the passing of Stuart Dixon. He was a kind person and a mentor .
My condolence to Sandy .
My his soul rest in peace .
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Connie Lebrun Dear Sandy
I was so saddened to hear of Stuart’s passing and his battle with cancer. I have many fond memories of being coached by him when I was in North Vancouver, and of coming over to the Island for squash tournaments. He was a kind and sincere man, with a wealth of squash knowledge, always delivered with that infectious grin! He pushed us to be better squash players and better people as well. My sincere condolences to you and your extended family. Thinking of you.
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Graham Waters Just returned from overseas travel to hear this very sad news. Others have elaborated on Stu’s very considerable contributions to squash in Victoria, B.C. and across Canada. He was also highly regarded by the WSF and touched many lives around the squash world.
Stuart was a wonderful man, always fun to be around. He will be missed by everyone in the squash community.
My condolences to Sandy and family.
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Dave Zambonelli Sandy, I was very saddened to hear of Stuarts passing and wanted to send you my deepest condolences. I will always remember Stuart as a wonderful, thoughtful and caring guy who was always fun to be around. He contributed so much to the squash community, he will be greatly missed.
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mark Heaney Sorry to hear of Stuart’s passing. He was a great coach, mentor and friend. i will always remember his coaching was very calming and helped you settle down, focus and play your best. A true gentleman who will be dearly missed. Condolences to Sandy and family.
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Ben Uliana Like so many that came to Victoria, Sandy and Stu opened their club and their home to help when I first arrived. I will forever appreciate their kindness. In honour of Stuart Dixon I raise a glass of Scotch and thank you.
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Mike Tooley Sandy, sadly I was not made aware of Stuart’s passing until yesterday afternoon.
All of the condolences add up to what a fun loving fine man he was, he always had a twinkle in his eye
He was greatly admired and the squash community particularly in Victoria, will miss him tremendously.
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Salim Rahemtulla Stuart was a wonderful man.
My family and I always loved to chat with him.
He will be missed dearly.
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Steve Richards Sandy: It was with great sadness that I read of Stuart’s passing. I have many fond memories of Stuart in Yellowknife where he had a profound impact on squash development. He instilled a life-long passion for the sport in me and so many other and I will miss him. My deepest sympathies.
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hawla dalrymple I was checking my emails, the Squash B.C. I saw that Stuart passed. All the time l saw him, always smile, and a little chat! You be missed, and Sandy my condolences , l’m so sorry.
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Carol Pirouz Ryan and Ruby Deepest condolences from all of us to you Sandy. We all cared for Stuart so much. From the beginnings of the club to the day he and Kiri met Ruby and we smiled and laughed as they played. We will miss him so much, he was kind, generous and the best squash coach I have ever encountered. We will miss him very much. You were his greatest love and his rock. Hugs to you from all of us.
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Reg Garters Stuart was a wonderful human being and a great friend to all he met. He was always positive, never complained and lived life to the full. I first met him when we worked together 55 years ago – he never changed, always great to be with. Sandy my thoughts and prayers are with you as you adjust to a tough future without your great mate.
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Judith Casbolt Hi Sandy. So sorry to hear Stuart has passed away as we are heading your way again next July. A very special person and the many times I have stayed at your place over the last 28 years you were both were always so warm in welcoming me into your home.
Take care.
Judith
New Zealand
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Helen Kennedy Stuart was one of the most generous people I have ever met. Cups tournaments, Tuesday morning women’s squash, and PacRim will forever be some of my favourite memories of Victoria. He taught us all so much about what the important part of squash really is: a drink with friends after the match.
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Chris McMillan Sandy, I am so sorry to hear the sad news of Stuart’s passing. He impacted so many of us and along with you, created a wonderful squash community. My thoughts are with you.
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Jeff Crowe Our deepest condolences Sandy. Stu was so loved by all of us and all of our furry friends. He has made a lasting impact on so many of our lives and will be sorely missed
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Winnie Yu I have known Stuart for over 35 years and has always admired him for his compassion, love for life, humour and of course, passion for squash. His love for the sport was contagious and his dedication to the members of the Victoria Squash Club was second to none. Stuart was welcoming to all who walked through the door and he had a gift for making everyone feel special. Stuart will always have a special place in my heart.
Thank you Sandy for loving Stuart, for being his anchor and for sharing him with us. Love and hugs.
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David Morel Stuart will be missed. He had a unique ability to bring people together and share his love of life.
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Peter Broadbent Sandy and family my thoughts are with you at this sad time.
Stuart was a bright light in the world of squash and always ready and willing to help all levels strive to achieve success and satisfaction from a demanding sport.
Stuart will be remembered with love and respect through the many, many lives which he touched in such a positive way.
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Luke Stuart was a role model for me and many other young squash players whose lives he enhanced. From the first time I met him I was struck by his warmth and the care he showed for the people around him. It was an honour to know him and call him a friend.
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Joan Peggs An inspiring individual – lived well, loved life, enjoyed life; loved people spending copious time with them. He changed the lives of so many by encouraging us to try (and succeed) at Squash.
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Markus and Charlene Wenzel The island and the world lost a wonderful squash supporter and coach last week, who helped bring the passion and joy of this great game to thousands.
Our condolences to you Sandy, but rest assured that Stuart left a little something of himself in all those he coached, played, and mentored.
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Marie Desmarais I was oh so very sad to hear of Stuart’s passing. How very special it has been to have had him as my squash mentor and friend for many years.
Stuart came to Whitehorse, Yukon many times to give clinics and he will be missed by the Whitehorse squash community. Greatly missed.
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Daniel Sokolov Dear Sandy,
If only I could send you strength in little packages, a truck would be on its way.
Stuart’s reputation not only as a unique supporter of squash players but also as a mensch reached far and wide. It was at the other side of Canada, in Moncton, that I was instructed to “go and see Stuart once you get to Victoria”. I feel blessed to have received that advice.
Stuart welcomed me to the city, to his club, and to the community. Little did I know about his legacy, his decades of dedication and support to women, men, and children who like to serve. But I instantly cherished his humour, his advice, and how he brought people together.
And that is the essence of human life: Connecting with one another.
Stuart facilitated more of that than he would ever know. His heritage lives on in all of us whose lives he touched.
My thoughts are with you.
Daniel
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Julie Holsworth The students and staff of Central Middle School send our love to you Sandy, and to your family. We have enjoyed coming each year for our ‘Intro to Squash’ lessons with Stuart. He always praised our students for being so respectful, attentive, and for participating with enthusiasm; all qualities he emanated himself. Our community has lost a great teacher and friend.
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Rick & Colleen Calderwood Dear Sandy,
Colleen & I were saddened to read of Stuart’s passing. We hope that the support of family and friends at this difficult time provides comfort in the days ahead.
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Kim Graham Day two on the Camino Trail in Spain. Heard the sad news on my birthday. Very fond memories of Stuart and all the friends I made through the club because of him and you Sandy. Many thanks for that. Thinking of you extra specially at this time and hoping all the great memories keep him close! Big hugs flying your way!!
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Robert Angus Stuart Dixon (Uncle Stuart).
Grand person, a true example for many. May his memory and dedication be remembered.
Our thoughts and love are with you.
Bob, Cris and Devyn
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Katy and Michael Hutchison To Sandy and all of Stuart’s family, we want you to have our condolences in the loss of Stuart, in which we will all share. He was a friend, a coach and above all a man who shared his love of life with all around him, never quite hiding that impish almost bad boy delight. His legacy is the multitude of squash players that he taught to love the game, and his measure is the success of so many of them. There will be a few salmon now breathing a sigh of relief, but he has his reserved seat in the eternal fishing boat, with a never ending dram of single malt beside him, and fair winds forever.
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Deidre Smith Dearest Sandy,
You are in my thoughts and I’m sending great big cyber space hugs. You and Stuart were an amazing team together!!! I am grateful to have had your coaching and mentor ship at such a critical time in life – as your contributions truly made a difference in my life!! My love and condolences in the passing of a special one of a kind – Stuart!
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Neil Henderson Will miss Stu big time. Walking into VSC and having quick chats with Stu in his office before matches was a staple in my routine when playing there. He was such a positive influence in the squash community and beyond. A big loss for Victoria, and for squash. My condolences Sandy.
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Barb Cooper So sorry to hear of Stu’s passing.
My condolences to Sandy and all who knew him. Squash will not be the same. He was such a happy promoter of the game in every way. He will be truly missed.
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Pat Sullivan I had just moved to Victoria when we met and many changes were occurring in my life at that time. In fact, many changes were occurring in everyone’s lives at the club, yet you knew how to talk to each person and make life wonderful. Such an incredible human being. You’ve made us all better and we will pass on your legacy. Godspeed brother.
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Dan Lynam so the squash world lost a former player, coach, instructor, and owner in Stuart….but to me, I lost Stuart as a friend who was usually at the squash club…. because we rarely talked about squash when we were together…it was always about what was happening in our lives or the world at that moment….he was usually smiling whether talking or listening, always up beat about things, playing with his dog, and wanting me to play one more game even when I said I was tired….Sandy, I’m away this weekend so I will have to give you a hug the next time we meet…..he was one of the good ones…from a Tuesday morning drop-in member
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Nita Moody I am so sorry to hear of Stuart’s passing Sandy. He fought long and hard and is now at peace and free of pain. He has left you with many happy and memorable memories. The squash community has been fortunate to have him as teacher and supporter of the sport. He will be missed by so many. My thoughts are with you at this difficult time.
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Morley Jameson On behalf of the Jameson family – Morley, Sue, Stephanie (his goddaughter), David and Katie – we offer our sincerest condolences. Stuart was a good friend for 40 years, meeting us when Sandy came to live with us early in 1979, while preparing for the World Field Hockey Championships which were held at UBC.
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Martin Hadlee Dear Sandy and family,
Please accept my deepest sympathy and sincere condolences for the loss of Stuart. I have known Stuart for the best part of 70 years having grown up together through his, and our family connections in Christchurch from primary school to high school and from there on, through a number of sporting networks. He was a very talented sportsperson who was an exceptional swimmer, great at cricket in his early days, an excellent and competitive golfer and of course, an exceptional squash player and coach. He always presented himself in a very relaxed and laid back style and approach which belied his competitive nature. He will be sorely missed as a long standing friend, who unfortunately due to distance, I could not see more regularly and provide support in his battles. Rest In Peace, my friend.
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Cathy Tuckwell I am so sorry to hear about Stuart …. he was a fixture with junior squash and made an important contribution to our game on the west coast. We also shared a love for golden retrievers and i hope his old friends are playing with him now. Wishing you comfort from many many memories.
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Spider Jones - NWT Squash - Yellowknife So, so sad to learn of Stu’s passing. From his masterful orchestration of tournaments and events, to his infectious enthusiasm for the Game, to imparting his coaching knowledge, to encouraging and supporting my playing and coaching journey over 40 years … thanks Stu.
the man, the myth, the coach, and best of all, my friend …
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lawrence skurr Lawrence Skurr 20th September,2019
Stuart was such a friendly guy always happy to lend a hand in the squash community of Christchurch especially from early days of the HSOB squash club. He made many visits to Christchurch over the decades and I was lucky to share these moments. His coaching and organisational skills will be sorely missed with squash the loser.
Personally he was such a lovable personal guy that’s how I will remember him.
My sincere condolences to Sandy and family
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Pete Goodings BC & Canada Squash has lost a great character and stalwart of the game. I only knew Stuart for five years but his reputation across the pond in the UK was ever-present. When meeting him for the first time he was ever the welcoming Kiwi-come-Canadian with lots of stories and a tremendous amount of experience and passion for this wonderful game of ours. So, so sad to hear that Stuart lost the battle but I’m sure we’ll all have a few drinks to remember him in his own inimitable way!
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Kim & Larry Sandy, our sincere condolences on the passing of Stuart. Larry and I have so many fond memories of Stuart from Tournaments, Leagues, Parties – you name it. We enjoyed it when Stuart came to Keating Squash Club and we enjoyed the good times at the Victoria Squash Club too. Stuart was a big supporter of our club, which we will never forget. Stuart changed the lives of so many people and made the world a better place. He is greatly missed already.
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Ed Alvarez My condolences to Sandy and your family. Stu was so great to me during my time in Victoria. I sincerely learned so much from him on and off the court. Ed
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Steve & Hélène Wren Kia Kaha Sandy,
With sadness, we light our candles for Stu, who so warmly welcomed 3 fellow Kiwis and I into home and squash club, over 3 decades ago. Like so many others he opened up to, we were all mates in squash together for decades to come. Stu battled his illness for so very long, a testament to his want to be around his friends and loved ones, and squash, as long as he could. Farewell to our mate Stu, de Les Wrenz – Steve & Hélène, Calvin, Chloé & Dominic.
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Penny Glover Dear Sandy, My deep condolences to you on your loss of Stuart. He was an amazing influence on squash locally and nationally.
Penny
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Cindy Brar Sandy,
So sorry to hear about Stuart’s passing. Even though I haven’t seen him for many years I have fond memories of him coaching me in squash. He was funny, warm and always encouraging. He will truly be missed.
Cindy and Dave Brar
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Rod Munro Dear Sandy and family,
I did not know Stuart for long and mainly as a business neighbour and occasional squash player but found him to be a very caring and supportive person. I very much enjoyed our short chats while manoeuvring our vehicles, his enthusiasm about my terrible squash game, and his presence of mind. Stuart was a good man and will be missed. My thoughts are with you and your family through this very difficult time.
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Bill and Karen Angus Our sincere condolences to you for your loss, Sandy. We feel so grateful to have had the opportunity to spend some time with Stuart this summer during our visit to the Island. You’re in our thoughts and we’re sending you big hugs and love. May you be comforted in knowing you’re loved and supported as you are surrounded by family and friends during this difficult time.
Love, Bill and Karen
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Sharon Trenaman Sandy
I was saddened to hear of Stuart’s passing, we had many squash clinics together developing Juniors across Canada. He was instrumental in my involvement in Squash Canada and I will be forever thankful to him.
Sharon Trenaman (Tren)
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Debbie Simpson So sorry Sandy for your loss! Stuart was a wonderful human, funny, witty and warm! He was a part of our lives for many years and I will truly miss him! R.I.P Stu, Debbie Simpson “Sumo”
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Unika Sandy, my sincerest condolences to you and the rest of the family. I have many fond memories of Stu and time on the court with him. I was very sad to hear of his passing, He was truly a one of a kind and will be missed by many I am sure. Thinking of you…Unika
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Robyn Prentice My sincere condolences to Sandy & family. I remember many engaging conversation with Stuart during my coaching years at the Royal Glenora Club and know his legacy will live on.
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Brad Styner What a wonderful man and a great ambassador for squash. Stuart will be missed by so many and my heart goes out to Sandy and the family.
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Rob, Cynthia, Jennifer, Laura and Michelle Gemmell Very sad to hear of Stuart’s passing. One of the handful of people in Canadian squash whom we can truly say had a significant impact on our family’s enjoyment of junior squash in Canada, even though we only crossed paths a few times a year at tournaments. Truly one of the really good guys whom we enjoyed spending time with and chatting about all things squash. A life well lived – Rest In Peace Stuart and our condolences to his wife, Sandy and to his family.
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Adeline Clements Dear Sandy & Family,
We are so saddened to hear of Stuart’s passing. He will be missed by so many.
Wishing you warm memories of laughter, love, and all the good things that you shared.
hugs from Adeline & Dave
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Sue Welsch Dearest Sandy, our hearts are heavy with the passing of Stuart. He fought a very long and hard battle as nothing was going to stop his zest for life. He is now at peace, no pain or suffering anymore. Stuart was a man who everyone loved and thought so highly of. We are so glad to have the pleasure of his friendship and love as that is what will last forever in everyone’s heart. Sandy you have an endless support system of family and friends, lean on us through this difficult time, together we will move forward and always love and remember Stuart. To know him is to love him as he touched everyone he meets. Our sincerest condolences, we are not able to come on Saturday but our thoughts are with you, family and friends
Ziggy and Sue
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Deborah Williams Dear Sandy and Family and Friends
I have happy memories of spending time at Stuart and John’s house on the corner of Jacksons Road, Fendalton, Christchurch, New Zealand. I think we played French cricket on the lawn! Stuart beat me by one day into the world but our births appeared in the same newspaper!
We missed not seeing him at our Fendalton Open-air School mini reunion last year not knowing he was unwell.
He is not forgotten in this part of the world.
Arohanui Nā (With Love from) Deborah Williams
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Leslie Graham My thoughts are with you, Sandy. I will always remember Stuart for his laugh and joy of life.
Leslie Graham
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Christian Bates Thank you Stuart for fostering my lifelong love of squash, way back in 2000. You will very missed.
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Harvey Thorau Dear Sandy,
I was so sad to hear of Stuart’s passing. He was always so full of life and such a positive person. My mind goes back to our staff parties and the great times we all had together sharing stories and a bite to eat or a drink. That is how I will remember him – most fondly. Please know that Kim and I are thinking of you at this very difficult time.
Harvey
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Eric Barclay Very sorry to hear ! He will be sadly missed
Always a smile on his face, such a great ambassador for the game of squash !
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Barbara M Wiggins Hi Sandy
I was shocked to read this morning of Stuart’s passing.
I am so sorry for your loss.I will see you at his Celebration on Saturday. Leslie will be coming with me. Ted and Gloria send their condolences as well.
Love
Barbara
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Eric Davies Dear Sandy and extended family
It has been several years since I have played squash but have the fondest memories of Stuart and his tremendous impact on squash in Victoria and beyond.His infectious enthusiasm for the sport and people with his wonderful humour was tremendous. The years at Harbour Square are particularly memorable. He left us too soon and will be deeply missed. My deepest condolences, Eric
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Frank Schmidt So sorry to hear, a legend. Enjoyed visiting and playing in the squash events at the club RIP.
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Dick Newson Condolences to Sandy and family. I will never forget how welcomed Stuart made me feel when I first came to Victoria and his friendly greeting every time I saw him in the club. I always enjoyed his company. The squash world will miss him greatly.
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Nich Burnett My condolences to the family. Stuart had a big heart and had a positive influence on my life. I have many fond memories of squash camps and tournaments with Stuart, and grueling training sessions in the Victoria Squash Club. Sending my thoughts and prayers.
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Laura Ramsay Hi Sandy
I was so sorry to hear about your loss. Stuart was such a great guy, so much fun, so good at coaching and promoting the game.
He will be greatly missed but he did leave a lasting legacy
I hope you have been able to take care of yourself because I know how hard such illnesses are on the caregivers.
Deep condolences
Laura Ramsay
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Bill and Nancy Campbell Sandy and family:
Stewart fought a long and hard battle with Cancer. Bless his heart – he is in a better place now and at peace – no more pain to endure. You will miss him dearly, as will everyone else who knew him. There will be a huge void in your life now, but with family and friends, you will find the strength to carry on.
Our prayers and love are with you and family.
Hope you are up to our lunch date, Wed., Sept. 25th. Let me know – we can always reschedule if you would rather. I am happy to pick you up………………just let me know.
Take care and God Bless!
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John Maysmith Sandy, I’m so very sorry to hear of Stuart’s passing several days ago. Many of my fondest memories are of my time at the squash club and Stuart was always there to provide guidance and support. He was always ready for fun gatherings, whether it was the evening drop-ins or the many tournament/parties he organized. I was disappointed that I wasn’t able to attend Stuart Labrun’s recent party in Stuart’s honour. The Victoria squash community has lost its best loved supporter,Stuart. The Victoria squash community will truly miss him dearly.
John Maysmith
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Michael and Euan Sandy
Stuart leaves a big hole in so many peoples lives
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Michael and Katy Hutchison Dear Sandy, and all of Stuart’s family:
We offer our condolences to you for the loss of Stuart, in which we all will share. He was a friend, a coach, but most of all a man who shared his infectious enthusiasm for life with all around him. His legacy will live in the many squash players who owe their engagement with the sport to him, not a few of whom owe their success in the sport to him as well.
Most of all, we will all miss his elfish charm, good humour and that slight little bit of bad boy that never quite disappeared. A few salmon can breathe a little easier now, but I am sure that Stuart now has a flask of single malt and a prime seat in the eternal fishing boat – with fair winds forever.
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Val Mieras and John Flegel Deepest condolences from John and me…we are so sad for your loss Sandy. Yes, Stuart’s passing was expected but that doesn’t make it any easier, or any fairer. You both deserved many more years together. Your friends share your sadness and we’re here for you, whatever you need.
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Allan Cook What can I say that hasn’t already been said about Stu. He was the godfather of squash in Canada. He impacted so many lives on and off the court. He is the soul reason that after 30years I am still involved in squash. Too many memories to count!
God bless you Stuart D- Coach, Mentor, Friend.
Allan Cook
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Andrew Lynn It was with great sadness that I learned of Stuart’s passing. He played a significant role in my development as a squash player but more importantly, he was a great friend. We will all miss him dearly.
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Cathie Reid Condolences to Sandy and family…very sad to hear this news. Stuart was one of the good ones … a man who contributed much and will be missed by his friends in the squash community.
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Viktor You will be missed. Thank you for everything.
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Maureen Moore Sandy, I am so very sorry to hear of Stuart’s passing. Sincerest condolences, and a big hug from me to you.
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Harold Trenchard So sorry to hear of Stuart’s passing. Stopping for a chat with Stuart on my way to a squash game is a pleasure I will greatly miss.
I just found out today!I’m so saddened to hear the passing of Stuart.. He was a fantastic Coach, Mentor, all around great guy! With a great sense of humor.I still play squash in Colorado. I will never forget Stu. Much Love to Sandy & Family..xoxoxo