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The Colgan Volunteer Service Award

By WWFHA Staff Writer, 05/03/18, 12:45PM PDT

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In Loving Memory of Chris Colgan: 1971 - 2018

WWFHA lost a dear friend on April 26th – Chris Colgan.

WWFHA remembers Chris as the always-willing to help parent that was a superstar dad to his kids. Chris donated his time and energies to WWFHA without ever being asked, especially around his passion for sports photography. He also volunteered as the Goalie Director, bringing in such pros as Ian Gordon to train with the association goalies once a month. Chris was always there for his daughter as she grew as a goalie and young woman before moving to California. He was a kind, passionate soul and we will all miss him dearly.

In Chris’ honor, WWFHA establishes the Chris Colgan Volunteer Service Award to be presented annually by WWFHA to recognize and honor the individual who most embodies Chris’ spirit and his extraordinary volunteer efforts demonstrated through his dedication, commitment, and positive impact as a WWFHA volunteer.

Chris will be the first recipient of the award named in his honor.

WWFHA Remembers Chris

“Chris was at the rink for every game; however, he didn’t watch from the stands like the rest of the fans. Chris watched the action through the lens of his camera and remotes on his GoPros. His fantastic action photos and NHL-quality game footage will keep the season fresh in our minds for years to come. Chris was the ultimate hockey dad and a friend to everyone he met. We had many good times with him on road trips, and feel very fortunate that we were able to spend some time with him at Districts in San Jose this March. Chris will be missed by our entire hockey family.” – Amy O'Neill

“Chris was one of those parents that made being involved in the sport of hockey enjoyable. He was supportive and passionate about his daughter, he loved the game, and he did whatever he could to make each experience more positive for everyone. He quietly donated the WWFHA photo backdrop, video cameras, and goalie gear and helped without being asked. He also connected the association to Ian Gordon, a professional goalie coach who worked with the players once a month.

The organization's best photos over the years have come from Chris and coaches benefited from his game videos. My favorite photos that he took were the ones that he took of his daughter with the US National Team -- both at the Four Nations Cup in Kamloops and at the US Team's practice in Everett. I love them because I knew Chris and Olivia were both on cloud nine.

I feel fortunate to have known Chris and call him a good friend. I will miss him dearly, as will the hockey community.” – Zoe Harris

“Chris was an unbelievably kind and generous man. He will be missed by all the players, coaches, parents and staff who interacted with him and benefited from his boundless enthusiasm, good humor and endless photography skills.” – Lisa McNeill

“In life I’ve seen many different types of parents. Some good, some bad. I can honestly say that I’ve never seen a father more devoted to his children than Chris.

“One year, all the WWFHA teams attended a tournament in Kamloops, BC. The Four Nations Tournament was happening at the same time. WWFHA was able to get tickets for a couple of games – including the championship game, USA vs. Canada. Needless to say, those tickets were a hot commodity. As we sat down in our block of seats, there was an elderly woman behind our section, who only had a standing room only ticket. Without hesitation, Chris gave up his seat and stood for the whole game. As he said, ‘It was the right thing to do.’ That’s very much the way Chris lived – it was always just the right thing to do.” – Jim Funfar

"Chris was always our eyes when we couldn’t be at game. We could rely on him to get the great shot! Goal or no goal, he captured it! He sent us this photo he titled “No goal for Halle!" We watched the video a lot and laughed. We love you Chris, and miss you." -- Susan Hansen

“Chris was a force of good at the rink and every time he greeted me he made me smile. His passion for his children is what I first admired about Chris; however, as I got to know him more it was his kindness, caring, and giving soul that clearly illustrated what an amazing person he was in all aspects of his life.

I appreciated his support, friendship, and always great conversations about hockey. Chris made a positive impacted on me and all of WWFHA and I miss him very much. Cindy Dayley

WWFHA sends its deepest condolences to the Colgan family and encourages you participate in the Celebration of Life hosted by Chris’ wife and 2 children.

Celebration of Life -- Chris Colgan

Christopher (Chris) Edward Colgan, born on October 5, 1971 in Santa Rosa, California, to the late Margaret "Peggy" Colgan and Wesley Colgan, Jr., passed away at age 46 from an aortic dissection on April 26, 2018 in San Jose, California. Chris graduated from Montgomery High School in 1989. He spent the majority of his working career in the Fire/Emergency Medical Services. He proudly served the public as a Firefighter/Paramedic for the City of Oakland (CA) and City of Tulsa (OK). Chris's first paid position was for Bennett Valley Fire starting at age 18. He also volunteered as a Battalion Chief for the Geyserville Fire Protection District where he mentored many up and coming fire fighters.

Chris and his wife Wendy Colgan were looking forward to their upcoming 21st wedding anniversary in May. He was preceded in death by his brother, Greg Colgan. Chris is survived by his son, Jacob Colgan; daughter, Olivia Colgan; brothers, Wes Colgan III (Erin) and Tim Colgan (Beth); and sisters, Jene Waud (Steve) and Tere Colgan (John). He found his greatest enjoyment photographing Jacob and Olivia as they played on their respective ice hockey teams. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the college education fund for Jacob & Olivia at 2777 Yulupa Ave. Suite 321 Santa Rosa, CA 95405-8584.

In memory of Chris’ love for Ferrari/Formula One Racing and the San Jose Sharks, wear either red or teal blue to his Celebration of Life on Sunday, May 20 from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the home of Steve & Jene Waud, 6594 Birch Ave., Santa Rosa.

Send a memory or photo via email to: amywaudreiter@gmail.com. Chris’ burial will be private. A special thank you to all of the staff at Regional Medical Center, San Jose. With their assistance, we were able to have an additional 12 precious days with Chris before he passed.

Chris's Celebration of Life is open to all who would like to drop-in.