This past week, saw the loss of two builders of the British Columbia Football Conference.
Both Norm Jones & Ken Smith played pivotal roles in the growth and financial well being of the Conference, more importantly they were both truly wonderful gentlemen and role models to many.
Players in our Conference today will not be fortunate enough to meet Mr. Jones and Mr. Smith, but if they were to have that honor, they would walk away from the conversation with a smile.
The BCFC wishes our deepest thoughts and prayers to both Norm and Ken's family and friends. These were both wonderful people, respected by so many, and their legacy and leadership will carry on with the BCFC.
Ken was a dedicated volunteer with North Surrey Minor Football since 1970 and joined the Surrey Rams organization in the 1980s. He played a critical role in saving the franchise that was in the midst of tough financial times.
Ken was a valuable presence at every BCFC Directors meeting for decades, where he provided guidance up until the COVID disruption.
For all his efforts in amateur football, Ken was a Life Member of both British Columbia Football Conference (BCFC) and the Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL).
The BCFC Executive of the Year was named in Ken's honour a few years ago to recognize his achievements and dedication to the Conference.
Ken was a decorated war veteran who served with the Cameron Highlanders of Canada in WW II and a survivor of the Dieppe Raid on the coast of France.
Without a doubt, Ken's sense of humor and positive energy will be missed throughout the BCFC.
Norm joined the BCFC as a Director in 1993. He came from the Richmond Raiders Junior program where he was a director and team treasurer.
In 1994 he became Treasurer for the BCFC, a position he held until 2013.
He was named CJFL Executive of the Year in 1995 and a BCFC Life Member in 2000.
Norm was a huge part of the 50/50 Team with the BC Lions, managing the 50/50 and maintaining the positive relationship that the BCFC and Lions have and continue to this day.
We would like to thank Norm for his countless hours of dedication, and for being such a wonderful, positive influence. You will be missed by so many.
