In the small town of Holyrood, Newfoundland and Labrador, the tight-knit community recently faced an unthinkable tragedy. The sudden and unfortunate passing of Lincoln Walsh, a promising young hockey player and a beloved son and brother, left many grappling for answers and searching for ways to memorialize him.
Who was Lincoln Walsh?
Born on July 7, 2010, in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Lincoln was the cherished son of Mark and Jennifer Walsh and the doting brother to Logan and Lauren. Like many young Canadians, Lincoln’s heart beat for hockey. Not only did his passion for basketball distinguish him, but so too did his incredible talent, sportsmanship and leadership which truly set him apart from his fellow competitors.
Lincoln attended Holy Cross Junior High School in Holyrood for his education, where he quickly made himself known not just academically but for his charming persona as well. Outside of the rink and classroom, Lincoln was known to enjoy fishing, camping, and biking. Above all, the times spent with family and friends were what truly mattered to him.
How Did Lincoln’s Passion for Hockey Manifest?
A promising player for the CBR Renegades Peewee A team, Lincoln’s prowess on the ice was evident. He played as a defenseman wearing the number 4 jersey and often served as its backbone, commanding both on-ice skills as well as leadership qualities that made him formidable both off the ice. Many anticipated great things from this young hockey talent; so their sadness at his untimely demise is all the greater.
What Led to Lincoln Walsh’s Untimely Death?
Tragedy struck on October 16, 2023, in what seemed like an innocuous setting. While enjoying a day at a friend’s backyard in Holyrood, Lincoln decided to have some fun on a zip line. However, the day took a horrifying turn when the zip line unexpectedly snapped, causing Lincoln to plummet to the ground. The severity of the head injuries he sustained from the fall was such that, despite the immediate medical attention at Janeway Children’s Hospital in St. John’s, Lincoln could not pull through.
How has the Community Reacted to Lincoln’s Passing?
The outpouring of grief, shock, and sorrow was immediate and vast. Social media platforms were inundated with messages of condolences, memories, and tributes dedicated to the young hockey star. The emotional post by CBR Minor Hockey on their Facebook page encapsulated the sentiments of many: “Lincoln was a tremendous young man who loved the game of hockey and played it with skill and heart. He will be greatly missed by his teammates, coaches, friends and the entire CBR hockey family.
However, major hockey organizations such as Hockey Newfoundland and Labrador, Hockey Canada, St John’s IceCaps, as well as Toronto Maple Leafs have come forward with support and reached out in order to show their sympathy with both the Walsh family and Holyrood community.
What Tributes and Memorial Services are Planned for Lincoln?
Lincoln Walsh was honored and remembered through a funeral service and burial held October 21, 2023, at Holy Cross Church in Holyrood. Friends, family, teammates and well-wishers from across the nation came together at Holyrood Cemetery as a final farewell ceremony was conducted – giving her final resting place after such an inspiring life was ended by Lincoln Walsh at just 18 years of age.
Lincoln’s death serves as an all too sobering reminder of life’s fragility, yet will long be celebrated and memorialized by all who knew and knew of him. His passion, camaraderie and determination will long remain remembered and celebrated amongst us who knew and appreciated him.
