The Field Hockey BC community was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Peter James, a true character of the field hockey community. Peter James died on December 24, 2108, at age 64. Peter was affectionately and better known as “Leo” to his teammates and friends.
Leo grew up in the University Hill (UBC) area and was a product of the storied junior program originated by Dr. Harry Warren. Leo was a forward and mid-fielder who played his club hockey with the Vancouver Hawks and UBC Thunderbirds. He went on to represent B.C. and Canada in the early and mid -1970’s. Peter’s signature lengthy and seemingly effortless gazelle-like strides took many an unsuspecting defender by surprise and earned him the appellation “Leaping Leo”. Peter’s dry wit, ready smile and selflessness endeared him to his teammates.
Despite Leo’s penchant for much coffee and cigarettes (often shortly before game time), he typically scored towards the top on national squad fitness tests. Leo, a UBC commerce grad, was a prolific reader of books and newspapers. Quite fittingly, he worked for many years with Vancouver’s iconic Duthie Books. Peter was truly an “original”. He was taken too young and will be missed by all.
The Field Hockey BC community offers its condolences to Peter’s family. Peter’s full obituary can be found on the Vancouver Sun website.
By: Alan Hobkirk
Photo: Vancouver Sun