CFL COMMISSIONER MARK COHON STATEMENT

The Canadian Football League has lost a beloved son and a respected patriarch with the passing of Bobby Ackles.

It was our league that virtually adopted him when he was just a boy, and it's our league that has looked to him as a man for counsel, inspiration and leadership by example.

As much as the CFL has meant to Bob, he has meant so much more to us.

His professionalism was exceeded only by his passion for our game and its important place in our country -- passion that has been on display for all to see.

What he has done -- starting as a waterboy and reaching the highest heights of football success -- may never be equalled.

But how he did it -- acting always as the consummate gentleman -- will be what we remember most of all.

Our hearts go out to his wife Kay and his sons Steve and Scott and their entire family.

We've lost one of the true greats. His contribution was so tremendous, and our gratitude is so profound,  they exceed even the deep sense of loss we feel today.