(Vancouver) The BC Lions Football Club is mourning the loss of Ian Barclay who passed away Saturday at Vancouver General Hospital.

A BC Lions executive for more than 23 seasons, Barclay served in various roles for the organization, including stints as a director (1965-73), president of the Western Football Conference (1969-70), Lions president (1970), and chairman of the club’s advisory board (1973-88).

“My memories of Ian Barclay are vivid,” said Lions President and CEO, Bob Ackles. “As a director, president, and chairman of the BC Lions, he was an instrumental part of our organization for many years and the contributions he made will not be forgotten.  Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.”

Prior to joining the Lions in 1965, Barclay played two years for McGill University’s football team followed by two seasons with the Montreal St. Hyacinthe-Donnacona Navy – including the club’s 1944 Grey Cup Championship.  A native of Montreal, Barclay began his business career as a barrister in Montreal in 1948 followed by 16 years serving as president and CEO of BC Forest Products Limited (1968-84).