Fans stream to makeshift Rypien memorial at Rogers Arena

VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – A makeshift memorial is growing outside Rogers Arena for former Vancouver Canuck Rick Rypien.

A support column on Expo Boulevard is covered in memorabilia.
    
Felicia and her friends say they were the first ones there.

“I thought it was important to pay our respects to him, he was such an awesome player,” she tells News1130.

It didn’t take long for a steady stream of people to come down and pay their respects to Rypien, and that stream lasted all day.

“There’s pictures of him, people have written memories of him on the other side there, and flowers are everywhere. I think it’s awesome, and it’s grown tremendously in the last 24 hours,” she says.

Heidi says Rypien meant a lot to her as a fan.

“He was a true fighter,” she says. “He always stuck up for his teammates no matter what.  Best fighter in the NHL in my opinion.”

Sheila came down with her son “Because he was a great player.  

“He died too young – 27.  Not much older than my own.  He deserved much more.”

Tomorrow’s event is being driven by social media.  It’s set for 2 p.m.  

People are being asked to gather at the Roger Nielson statue where a book of condolences will be passed around for everyone to sign.

Twice during his time with the Canucks Rypien took a leave of absence for personal matters.  In 119 career NHL games, Rypien had nine goals and seven assists and racked up 226 penalty minutes.

The body of the 27-year-old forward was found in his family’s home in Coleman, Alberta yesterday.      Police say the death isn’t considered suspicious.

The Vancouver Canucks’ statement:

“It is with tremendous sadness that the Vancouver Canucks confirm the passing of Rick Rypien.  Rick has been a beloved member of the Canucks family for the past six years.  Rick was a great teammate and friend to our players, coaches and staff.  We send our deepest condolences to the Rypien family at this most difficult time.”

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