Former Lakehead Thunderwolves defenceman Shawn Perring passed away last week at the age of 35.
Shawn manned the Wolves blue-line from 2001 to 2004, scoring 7 goals and 20 assists in 89 games played during his university career. The Thunder Bay native also accumulated 180 penalty minutes during that span.
Goaltender Cory McEachran, a friend and teammate of Perrings has fond memories ofShawn and their years together at Lakehead. Big Perr was a genuine person and one of the best teammates I have been fortunate enough to call a friend, McEachran said. He had a smile that could light up a room and the ability to make the people around him feel special. He had one of the biggest hearts of anyone I've ever known and would give you the shirt off his back.
McEachran went on to add, Shawn was a hard worker on the ice and in the classroom. He was dedicated to the teams goals and improving himself, and his natural skill and toughness made #23 a dual threat on the ice. This tragedy broke my heart more than I ever imagined and I'm sure anyone that knew him would say the same. He will be sorely missed by many.
The Lakehead Thunderwolves would like to extend its condolences to the Perring family and to all that will miss Shawn.