Monday, March 22, 2010

Farewell To One of the Best

Eugene Ouchi has been my friend and mentor for 30 years... he passed away on March 7, 2010.

Since I was 5 years old he’s been my hockey coach, my mentor, my teacher and most important, my friend! He told me recently that the reason he loved being all of these things is because he was learning in an equal capacity to his students and players. “Always try to learn something in everything you do!” 

My very first memory of Eugene was him teaching me how to skate... He’d tell us to “really dig in...look at the spot were you’re going and don't stop til you get there.” ... He’d also noticed my knack for drawing and encouraged me to follow it. Over the years that followed, he always asked how the art was going... suggesting I take it to a different level. Finally I decided to go to ACAD and told him the first chance I could. He smiled... and asked me if I remembered that first lesson he taught me in hockey? Because it applied to my school work at ACAD... In order to be successful I needed to “dig in... Picture that goal line and don't stop til I get there.” 
Eugene  has taught me how to strive for my goals, and have fun doing it.  I am so lucky to have him in my life.

I will never forget you Eugene as long as I’m learning!

 

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