The Kootenay International Junior Hockey League alumnus Luke Kalenuik, 28, has passed away following a battle with cancer that came to an end on February 26.
“The KIJHL is tremendously saddened by the passing of Luke Kalenuik,” said KIJHL commissioner Jeff Dubois. “Luke was a tremendous young man who was known as a leader and beloved teammate as an assistant captain with the Kelowna Chiefs and Creston Valley Thunder Cats. Our thoughts and condolences are with Luke’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
An update provided on the GoFundMe page set up for Kalenuik said he was surrounded by loved ones and friends in his final moments.
Kalenuik spent three seasons in the KIJHL (Kelowna Chiefs – 2014-16, Creston Valley Thunder Cats – 2016-17).
Justin McCartney, voice of the Chiefs, remembers Kalenuik fondly.
“He was a guy who always had a smile on his face when he came to the rink and was always happy to see you, happy to be there,” said McCartney. “On the ice, Luke was a gritty, two-way competitor, who was strong on faceoffs and definitely the kind of player that every coach wants on his team.
“We are terribly sad that he didn’t pull through and definitely our thoughts are with Luke’s family and friends.” continued McCartney.
Shannon Veitch, president of the Thunder Cats and Kalenuik’s former billet parent, said the organization extends its heartfelt condolences to the family at this incredibly difficult time. She added that Kalenuik embraced the Thunder Cats with the positivity and enthusiasm, which he was known for.
“Luke led by example, always encouraging his teammates to be the best hockey player they could be,” she said. “With a continual smile on his face and an upbeat attitude daily, Luke was always working hard for the team. Luke will be fondly remembered by the Thunder Cats organization and his memory will live on in Creston for the athlete and kind young man that he was.”
Luke’s family has provided updated information on a planned celebration of life on their GoFundMe page.
