Bay Roberts council remembers Ward Gosse

By Olivia Bradbury/Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Members of Bay Roberts council paid their respects to Bay Roberts native Ward Gosse last week following the well-known athlete and Torbay town councillor’s sudden passing.

The renowned softball player and hockey player was 56.

“Ward was what we call an elite athlete,” said Mayor Walter Yetman. “He was, I would say, probably one of the best softball players in the province, and probably nationwide. A great hockey player, as well, and a wonderful, wonderful person.”

Deputy Mayor Malcolm Seymour said Gosse, a former teammate and longtime friend, had many accomplishments.

“His acceptance into the Hall of Fame here in Bay Roberts was largely due to his performance in the rink as an elite hockey player,” said Seymour. “He won five Herders. Locally, provincially, nationally — the awards are just mindboggling to see.”

Seymour noted that Gosse’s skills were developed as a member of the Bay Roberts Minor Hockey Association, the Bay Arena Minor Hockey Association, the Bay Roberts Minor Softball Association, and the Ascension Collegiate program.

“His roots are here,” Seymour said. “His family is still here.”

Seymour offered condolences on behalf of the Bay Roberts town council, staff, and residents to Gosse’s wife, children, parents, and sisters, the councillors, staff, and residents of Torbay, and to his fellow Bay Roberts councillor Perry Bowering, who was Gosse’s first cousin.

“He’s one of ours gone way too soon,” said Seymour, “and he certainly made his mark in the sporting community. Our thoughts and best wishes to everyone affected.”