BC Place was glowing orange last night in memory of a CFL great.
Glowing Orange tonight in memory of David Braley and his contributions to our community. 🧡
Thank you @bcplace 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/PKX46eD1S1
— BC LIONS (@BCLions) October 27, 2020
David Braley, BC Lions owner and former Conservative senator, died peacefully yesterday at his home in Burlington, Ontario. He was 79.
Lions Owner David Braley celebrates winning the Grey Cup with his team in 2011. Photo from here.
“David has been a proud and fiercely loyal owner of our team, a champion of the Canadian Football League, and a leader for whom his love of our game and our country went hand in hand and spanned decades,” Rick LeLacheur, BC Lions President, said. “We share our deepest condolences with his family, friends, and admirers.”
Braley owned two other CFL teams in his life; The Hamilton Tiger-Cats and the Toronto Argonauts. From 2010-2015 he owned the Lions and Argonauts at the same time, before selling the Argos to Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment.
Braley saw his teams hoist the Grey Cup four times – three with BC and one with Toronto. At the time of his death he was the longest-serving active owner in the CFL.
Braley was hospitalized in 2016 with a foot infection related to diabetes. In 2017, he had begun to seek out potential buyers for the Lions with his health in decline.
“One of his final acts of devotion to Canadian football was a clear expression of his desire that the stability of our club be maintained through a smooth transition following his passing,” said LeLacheur. “We will work closely with David’s estate to follow that plan.”
Braley was appointed to the Senate of Canada on May 2010 to represent Ontario. His political career was short-lived, as he stepped down three years later without stating a reason.
Laureen and I send our prayers to the family and loved ones of former Senator David Braley. David was a fine Senator, a champion of Canadian business, Canadian football and our country. May he Rest In Peace.
— Stephen Harper (@stephenharper) October 27, 2020
Braley will also be remembered for his generosity, donating over $125 million in his lifetime.
Last year he was named an officer of the Order of Canada. One of our country’s highest honours.
Braley belongs to three hall of fames: Canadian Football Hall of Fame (2012), McMaster Sports Hall of Fame (2007) and Hamilton Sports Hall of Fame (2006).
He will be remembered as someone with a deep love for Canadian Football, and as someone who was always looking to grow and expand the CFL.