The Sarnia-Lambton community is mourning the loss of a former professional hockey player and city firefighter who died Monday after a battle with cancer.
Rick Fraser was well known in the hockey community as a player, coach and referee.
He was a defenceman with the OHL Oshawa Generals from 1971 to 1974, and was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 10th round of the 1974 NHL Draft.
The Indianapolis Racers selected Fraser in the 17th round of the WHA Draft and he went on to play parts of four professional seasons between the NAHL and IHL.
Rick Fraser is the father of former Sarnia Sting defenceman Jamie Fraser who has played for 10 years in the Austrian Elite League, and he's the younger brother of former longtime NHL referee Kerry Fraser.
Condolences have been pouring in on social media with the Ontario Hockey League, Sarnia Sting, minor hockey teams, Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley, Sarnia Fire & Rescue, and the Sarnia Police Service among those mourning the loss through posts.
Rick Fraser was inducted into the Sarnia-Lambton Sports Hall of Fame in 2019.
He was 66.
Due to the pandemic, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the D. J. Robb Funeral Home & Cremation Centre.