Douglas “Wayne” Thompson, whose name adorns the WWHSHL Championship Trophy passed away peacefully on October 18 at the age of 72.
Wayne was a towering figure, figuratively and literally, in the early years of the WWHSHL. As a founding member and President, Wayne was instrumental in laying the foundations that enabled the League to grow over the last 22 years from four teams to one of the most successful hockey Leagues in the province.
Leading by example, Wayne made sure fellow Executive members and coaches performed to the highest possible standard; always lending a hand to help others reach their goals and ensure operations ran smoothly. Nancy Gillies, another founder and former coach of the SJR Eagles, remarked "He was a steady influence when the League needed that. And despite his gruff demeanor, he had a heart of gold." Ken Lazaruk, Treasurer and RIC added “I worked closely with Wayne for many years, and always felt the League was in very capable hands. Wayne’s support and guidance aided me personally and the League as a whole.”
After leaving the Presidency, Wayne continued to be a major contributor, running the League Championship Playoffs each spring with his usual clockwork precision and flawless execution. He greeted countless excited athletes who came to compete for the title each year, unaware they were vying for the cup bearing his name.
WWHSHL President Carrie Snelling said, “Wayne was a gifted educator, whose commitment to our student athletes and continued service to the League helped to ensure we lived up to our mission of advancing hockey for the benefit and enjoyment of all players.”
The WWHSHL family would like to extend our sincerest condolences to Wayne’s wife Cindy, his brother and sister-in-law Jack and Theresa Tinsley, loved ones and friends.
A celebration of Wayne’s life will be held at Neil Bardal Funeral Centre, 3030 Notre Dame Avenue (across from Brookside Cemetery) on Monday, October 29 at 7:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Oak Table, 109 Pulford Street, Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3L 1X8 or a charity of your choice. Wayne’s Obituary can be found here.
