Dahrran Diedrick dies at the age of 44

Montreal Alouettes veteran Dahrran Diedrick has passed away at the age of 44.

A running back with the Alouettes from 2006 to 2013, Diedrick won two Gray Cups with the team in 2009 and 2010. He briefly returned to the team in 2014.

Diedrick had also been battling cancer for several years, and complications related to his illness led to his death at Toronto General Hospital shortly after 2 a.m. Saturday, surrounded by family and friends.

In 130 career CFL games, he covered 872 yards and landed six touchdowns on 179 carries.

STATEMENT OF FAMILY

Diedrick’s family sent CTV News a statement shortly after his death was announced describing his “resilience” and ability to “overcome adversity”:

“It wasn’t just the touchdowns that Dahrran Diedrick was known for, but his ability to connect with people, his loving love for his children, mother, family and girlfriend.

Dahrran always saw the best in people; he portrayed love, kindness and affection regardless of the individual.

In addition to his physical fitness as a strength and conditioning coach with the Toronto Argonauts, Dahrran strongly believed that young adults needed to learn motivational skills. As a result, he taught young adults at various schools in Toronto how to strive for success and fulfill their dreams while being kind and humble.

To understand and remember Dahrran, you need to think about his resilience and his ability to overcome adversity.

A lively young man who ran the football field, a broad smile that lit up every room, and the weight of those strong arms over the shoulders are the things that will hold a special place in people’s hearts.

We will forever remember the lives Dahrran touched during his short time with us, his contagious smile, positive attitude and inspiring values.”

INFORMAL VIGIL SCHEDULED

A former teammate, Brandon London, who lived with Diedrick during his time on the team, says he hopes fans and loved ones will join him during the July 14 game against Toronto at Percival Molson Memorial Stadium for an informal vigil.

“I’m trying to get as many guys up there for that,” he told CTV, adding that it’s a fitting venue in a city “he’s done so much for”.

“I’m going to make sure his name lives on as a Canadian CFL great,” he said. “Not just on the field, but as a teammate and as a friend.”

“I’m hurt inside and I’m crying. But I’m motivated to make sure his legacy continues,” he added.

‘LOYALITY’, ‘COMPASSION’ AND ‘SELF-SELFNESS’: REMEMBER FRIENDS AND TEAMMATES

“Dahrran was a very good friend of mine in the dressing room, and we kept in touch after our careers,” said Alouettes Football Operations Director Eric Deslauriers in a press release on Saturday. Deslauriers played eight seasons with Diedrick.

Hamilton Tiger-Cats linebacker Carl-Olivier Prime, left, and fullback Dahrran Diedrick pray on the field prior to indoor practice on Friday, November 22, 2013 at Moose Jaw. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Paul Chiasson

“I remember a very physical player when he had the ball,” he added. “No one could take it away from him. My thoughts are with his loved ones and his family, my heart is very heavy right now.”

“We formed a brotherhood that can never be broken in Montreal,” another former Alouette, Reginald “Reggie” Hunt, wrote on social media. “You were a good person. A good friend. And you will certainly be missed. Thank you for being a part of some of my favorite memories.”

Diedrick, who also won a Gray Cup during his 2005 rookie season with Edmonton, spent time in the NFL with the San Diego Chargers, Green Bay Packers and Washington.

His friends told CTV that he was a force on and off the field and was motivated to help others, especially young people.

“His loyalty, his compassion and his selflessness are things I will remember about him,” said Selwyn Pieters, a Toronto lawyer who was close friends with Diedrick and spent his last days in the hospital with him.

He says he got a call from Diedrick’s mother to tell him the news. “His partner was there and friends were there, and other relatives were there,” he said, adding that Diedrick’s last moments were peaceful.

“He is remembered for his collegiality with the other players and as a mentor to junior players,” he added.