Vancouver Whitecaps FC are mourning the passing of Bob Rosenlund, a long-time and beloved member of the local soccer community.
Rosenlund passed away on April 7, 2017 at the age of 53 after courageously battling cancer. He was a proud husband, father, son, brother, and uncle, and is survived by his wife Lori of 31 years; sons Tyler, Matt, and Cole; parents Dan and Margaret; brothers Dan, Doug (Kelly), Bill (Cathy), Dave (Katherine), sister Allison; and many nephews and nieces. Son Tyler Rosenlund was the inaugural captain for Whitecaps FC 2 in the 2015 USL season.
Bob was an accomplished soccer player, competing at the national level with Canada Soccer in his youth. In 1980 at age sixteen, Bob was awarded the Vancouver Sun Soccer Boy. In 1982, he was drafted by the New York Cosmos. He also played for the Edmonton Eagles of the CPSL and the Vancouver Firefighters Soccer Club where he continued to play until his diagnosis with cancer at the age of 45. A dedicated and successful coach, Bob had a huge influence on a number of young players throughout the community, and led teams that won many games and secured many championships.
In addition to his involvement in the soccer community, Bob was a proud member of the Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services (VFRS) for 22 years. He finished his career as a Captain in the Fire Prevention division and had many great friends there. Bob is remembered by his VFRS colleagues as a leader to all – and with a great sense of humour. Hard-working, supportive and generous, Bob did everything for his team.
As a Captain of the VFRS, Rosenlund was given a departmental funeral in a touching memorial service that was held on Thursday at the First Baptist Church on Burrard.
Bob will be missed by all members of the soccer community. The club wishes to offer condolences to the Rosenlund family and friends at this difficult time.
