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In Memory of Ryan Addison From the Aurora Barbarians and friends, It is with profound regret that we advise of the passing of Ryan Addison. Ryan was a member of the Aurora Barbarians and previously Markham RFC and a friend to many in our rugby community. Ryan was long listed for Canada on several occasions and had played the last five Rugby Canada Super League seasons with the Toronto Renegades/Xtreme and for Ontario this year in matches against the Pacific Pride and Cardiff. On June 30, 2005 Ryan was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer that had attacked his testes, stomach and lungs. Notwithstanding his valiant fight to resist this mean disease and the good care he received from his doctors at Toronto East General Hospital he succumbed to his cancer on Saturday July 30, 2005. His family and close friends had been by his bedside through this time. Visitations will take place at the Michael Shepard House at the York Cemetery, 160 Beecroft Road (runs north/south, west of Yonge from Sheppard Ave.) Toronto on Wednesday August 3rd from 3:00PM to 5:00PM and from 7:00 PM to 9:00PM. A funeral service will take place at the Michael Shepard House at 2:00 PM on Thursday August 4, 2005. (to be followed by a brief reception) There will also be a reception to celebrate Ryan’s life at Steam Whistle Brewery on Thursday evening. The brewery is located at 255 Bremner Boulevard off York St. downtown Toronto. The reception will run from 8:00 pm to 12:00 midnight. Ryan has always been a little unconventional when faced with traditional practices. He has always said that he didn't want to people to mourn and wear black for his funeral. He wanted to keep it casual and more of a gathering to celebrate all that he had seen and done. In respecting his wishes, I would request that everyone come with a light heart and dress to reflect that. The family has asked that donations be made to Toronto East General Hospital in Ryan's honour, instead of traditional flowers and wreaths. TEGH took fantastic care of Ryan and his medical team could not have fought harder with him. In the time that Ryan spent at TEGH, he made a great impact on every staff member who came into contact with him. The family could not be more appreciative of all the efforts of the hospital staff and would like to ensure that they are able to give all patients the same level of care that Ryan received during his time there. Ryan's obituary has been published in the Toronto Star today Tuesday, August 2nd.
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