Funds In Memory

Jon Hameister-Ries Memorial Fund

Family and friends of Jon Hameister-Ries have created an Award through the Edmonton Community Foundation to honour his memory and his kindness to others.

Jon was always larger than life. His love of sports started with soccer and hockey, then at Strathcona High School he switched to basketball and then football in Grade 12.  He went to University of Tulsa on a football scholarship and graduated with an MBA.  Following that he had a short stint with the Arizona Cardinals, and then was a second round draft pick for the BC Lions, where he played for 6 years. Jon played left offensive guard and was part of the 2011 Grey Cup Championship.  When football ended, Jon opened up Meat City restaurant and was a partner in Mean Poutine. He had a passion for cooking, and appeared in the top 10 on season 2 of Master Chef Canada.  Jon lived a full life- excelling in sports, falling in love, and following his dreams.

Jon was an exceptional athlete and student but an even better person.  As an announcer said upon his death, “Jon would have been an all-star player (for the BC Lions) were it not for injuries; instead he became an all-star person.”

The award will be handed out each year to a Gr. 12 student athlete at Strathcona High School in Edmonton who is going on to post-secondary studies. This student will have exemplified the qualities that Jon brought to a team and to his life: leadership, drive, kindness, empathy for others and team player.

Students will apply for this award and the recipient will be selected by Strathcona High School officials based on criteria established.

 

 

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