Prince George icon Dick Voneugen, seen here preparing to blast the starter’s horn for the 2018 Terry Fox Run, has died. He was 92 years old. Voneguen was an advocate for getting healthy and staying fit. In 1979 he, along with Tom Masich organized the Corporate Cup, which was a track and field meet for local businesses. They were also instrumental in organizing the Prince George to Boston Marathon which, famously, inspired Terry Fox and his Marathon of Hope. That race also included Rick Hansen. He was also involved in the construction of the Otway Nordic Centre and the Greenway Trail.
David Mothus posted the following on the Hell Yeah Facebook page:
A legend has passed away. Dick Voneugen was the heartbeat of everything outdoors in PG. RIP Dick
Some other fun facts about Dick:
*He loved classical music*He helped bring Terry Fox and Rick Hansen to PG in 1979 for a road race*His best friend was Tom Masich*He’s the highest fundraiser in PG Terry Fox Run history*His family secretly and courageously hid Jewish families in their house during WW2*He turned 92 years last July. His one birthday wish was for people to go for a run (any distance or pace) on his birthday.
2 thoughts on “Community icon Dick Voneugen dead at 92”
I am saddened to hear of Dick’s passing. He and my parents were long time friends who first met in Port Alberni. They, like Dick, had moved from the Netherlands in the 1950s. One of my childhood memories is Dick bringing a bouquet of freesias for my mom, and some moose meat for the freezer. Rest in Peace oom Dick! You were role model for all who knew you.
May I remind you that it was Dick who pushed and pushed the speed skating oval. He was heavily involved in the 55 plus games not only as an athlete but was Zone 9 sports cordinator.Anything Dick worked on he sunk his teeth into and wouldn’t let go until it was a success.