The BELC is saddened to share the news the our oldest living member, George ‘Potsy’ Burrows, has passed away. In his 104 years on our planet, Potsy left an incredible impact on not just Brampton lacrosse, but on the sport all across our nation.
Starting at the age of 8 in 1926, Potsy played lacrosse at all levels in Brampton over the next 21 years (including playing for the minor, Junior and Senior teams at one point, all in the same day). Potsy was a standout goaltender and a staples of the Excelsiors’ uniform for his whole career.
After his first year of Sr. lacrosse, in 1941 George enlisted in the RCAF and served in WWII. But this didn’t stop him playing. Potsy played with the Air Force team in exhibition games arranged to help raise money for the war effort.
When he returned from his service, Burrows, along with Billy Evans and Jim Cleveley (all of whom would later be inducted as BELC Life Members), founded the Lakeshore Minor Lacrosse League. His dedication to the sport and the people involved went so far as driving players to games, and refereeing them free of charge. In fact, though fondly remembered for his goaltending, Potsy spent 20 years with the whistle, an absolutely instrumental role in the game.
Potsy’s other honours include induction to the Brampton Sports Hall of Fame, the Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame, and the Canadian Lacrosse Hall of Fame. He’s been recognized by the Toronto Rock, The Royal Canadian Legion, and the Peel District School Board, for whom he volunteered with, speaking about the history of WW2.
A book could be written on everything Potsy Burrows did for lacrosse, for the City of Brampton, and for all those around him, but suffice to say that he will always be missed, remembered for an absolutely amazing life and legacy.
Details on the visitation and funeral can be found here.