The Battlefords came out to recognize one of its most well-known sons after he passed away last week.
Edmonton Oilers forward Colby Cave died on April 11 after suffering a brain bleed days earlier. The 25-year-old was put into a medically-induced coma at a Toronto hospital and had to have emergency surgery to remove a cyst, which was putting pressure on his brain.
The Saskatchewan community held a procession with vehicles lined up along Highway 16 to send messages of support and condolence to the Cave family on Monday.
Family friend Bob Bartkewich helped organize the procession and has known Colby’s dad since they were in kindergarten.
“Our rec hockey team started this, and from there the community got involved, businesses got involved and as you can see from the cars, it’s snowballed. It goes to show how much impact Colby and the Cave family has on this town,” he said.
Bartkewich understands the grieving process has been difficult for the community given the measures put into place because of COVID-19, but he’s glad that he could make this happen for the Cave family.
He said Cave set up an annual father-son hockey game in Battleford where he would make sure every kid felt included.
Bartkewich said he’s not sure when friends and family will be able to get together and is pleased he was able to offer this support to his friends.
Cave’s junior hockey coach, Mark Lamb, said he’s not surprised at the outpouring for support for the Cave family.
“They deserve it. I wish I could be in one of those vehicles along the road also and I’m sure there’s many people in the hockey world that wish they could be there also,” Lamb said via Zoom in Prince George, B.C.
Lamb also noted Cave made time for everyone he came into contact with.
During his tenure in the WHL, Cave was named captain of the Broncos for two seasons.
“Colby was a beloved member of the Swift Current Broncos team and the Swift Current community, and he will be forever remembered as an inspiring leader, a loved member of his billet family, a true teammate, and a great friend,” read a statement from the Broncos hockey club.
“Colby’s impact on the Swift Current and southwest Saskatchewan community was immeasurable, and as we all mourn his passing, Colby’s legacy will live on in the hearts of everyone he inspired.”
He played in 11 games with the Oilers this regular season, scoring one goal.
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