A former North Bay Battalion third round pick has passed away at the young age of 23.
Kurtis Evans passed away last week in his home in Uxbridge, Ontario after battling cancer.
"It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Kurtis Evans on October 3rd, 2024, at the age of 23. Kurtis left us peacefully at home, surrounded by his loving family, after a courageous battle with his illness," his obituary stated.
"Kurtis was known for his radiant smile and his kind, compassionate soul. He had an extraordinary gift for forming deep connections with people from all walks of life, remaining steadfastly dedicated to his friends and loved ones. A natural athlete, he thrived in various sports and had a deep passion for the outdoors, cherishing moments spent with family and friends, many of whom became like family themselves."
The 43rd overall pick by the North Bay Battalion in 2017 out of the Central Ontario Wolves U16 AAA program, played 54 games with the Battalion in parts of three seasons. In 2018-18 he registered 1 goal and 2 assists for 3 points in 21 games.
Adam Dennis, Battalion president and director of hockey operations says the Battalion organization is devastated by the loss.
"Our heart goes out to the family in a time like this, it is brutal news and a special person lost way too soon," said Dennis.
"Kurtis was an amazing kid and a player I will remember quite fondly just for the person that he was. He was always willing to help in his community, always a great teammate and somebody the players on his team could lean on."
The Ontario Hockey League Alumni page reacted to the news this weekend with a post on social media.
"We send out our sincerest condolences to his family, friends, teammates," the OHL Alumni stated.
The visitation takes place in Uxbridge on Wednesday and funeral service to take place on Thursday.
See the obituary HERE
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to the Ewings Cancer Foundation of Canada as a tribute to Kurtis's memory.
