Disbelief Over Unexpected Passing Of Local Sports Hero And Teacher

School District 57 Administrators and staff at College Heights Secondary School are offering no comment on the sudden passing of teacher Matt Pearce.

Pearce was as passionate about teaching, as he had been about sports.  He passed away unexpectedly this weekend, at the age of 48.

Formerly president of the Prince George and District Teachers Association, Pearce returned to the classroom, but remained a member at large with the PGDTA.

Both Acting School District 57 Superintendent, Sharon Cairns, and current PGDTA President, Richard Giroday, declined to offer comment at this time, citing respect for the family’s wishes.

However, as word of his death spreads, friends and colleagues are sharing their thoughts on social media.

BC Federation of Labour Secretary-Treasurer, Aaron Ekman, posted the following:

Devastating news from Prince George this am.

“Matt Pearce was a local hero in Prince George. A sports legend who had the honour of sporting a CFL ring everywhere he went, a rock solid trade-unionist and tireless advocate for public education.

Mostly, he was a friend. We’re all shocked to hear this news. Matt left us far too early, and he’ll leave an enormous hole in our community.”

Local photographer, Terrill Bodner, takes annual photos for the Prince George Minor Football Association, where Pearce was a devoted coach.

She summed up the sentiments of many, saying, “We have lost a great community leader today.  He will be missed.”