A roller hockey tournament in memory of Markus Schouten raises over $150K for Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, turning grief into purpose and action.
A Summer Hockey Game Becomes a Legacy of Love
In Chilliwack, B.C., a group of tight-knit young men did something remarkable: they turned their heartbreak into hope. What began as a simple tribute to a lost friend has blossomed into a powerhouse charity event — one that’s now raised over $150,000 for a cause that couldn’t be closer to their hearts.
Welcome to the Markus Schouten Memorial Roller Hockey Fundraiser, a grassroots effort that’s proving how community, courage, and a pair of rollerblades can change lives.
Remembering Markus: More Than Just a Game
Markus Schouten passed away at just 18 after a 15-month battle with cancer. He spent his final days at Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, surrounded by love — including six loyal friends who never left his side.
But Markus didn’t want his friends to mourn in silence.
“Go do stuff. Don’t just sit and be sad,” he told them, encouraging the boys to live boldly in his memory. He even insisted they use some of his own money to buy rollerblades and hit the pavement — not just for fun, but for something meaningful.
From Backyard to Blockbuster Fundraiser
The first memorial tournament happened just two months after Markus’ passing, on what would have been his birthday. It was simple — six hours of roller hockey among friends, prayer, and a shared mission to support Canuck Place, where Markus received care.
Since then, it’s grown into a full-on community event. This year, six teams — including family, friends, and even Markus’ mentor — laced up on July 26 at a Greendale farm. Players ranged from longtime buddies to church friends and schoolmates. A golden trophy, cleverly crafted from an old inline skate, now adds flair to the tradition.
Over the past three years, the event has raised more than $152,000, drawing support from local businesses, generous families, and a community forever changed by Markus’ story.
Living Well, Loving Big
Markus’ parents, Mike and Jennifer, saw firsthand what compassionate hospice care meant during their son’s final chapter. Canuck Place didn’t just provide care — they made every moment count.
“Markus died well because of the care he received,” Mike shared. “Short lives should be lived well — and that’s exactly what happened.”
His friends echo that sentiment. For them, the fundraiser is about far more than goals and games. It’s about continuing the way Markus lived — with joy, purpose, and faith.
A Lasting Impact, Fueled by Friendship
For Lincoln Louwerse, one of Markus’ closest friends, this journey has been transformative.
“It’s not just about the hockey,” he said. “It’s about remembering Markus and the way he lived his life — with grace, gratitude, and boldness. That changed us.”
Chantelle Bowles of Canuck Place calls it “absolutely beautiful and humbling” to see young people give back like this. And indeed, it is.
More Than Just a Fundraiser
What started as one boy’s dying wish is now an annual beacon of hope — a roller-hockey tournament that celebrates life, supports children’s hospice care, and keeps Markus Schouten’s spirit alive through action, laughter, and love on wheels.
So the next time you hear skates zipping down a Chilliwack street, it might just be more than a game. It might be legacy in motion.
