VICTORIA -The University of Victoria Department of Athletics and Recreation is deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Dean Crawford, a distinguished UVic alumnus who left an indelible mark both as an athlete and a leader. Crawford passed away on December 6, 2023, leaving a legacy that will forever resonate within the Victoria community and beyond.

In 2009, Crawford was inducted into the UVic Sports Hall of Fame as a member of the 1983 men's rowing varsity eight who acted as harbingers of the Vikes' Olympic rowing tradition. Crawford was one of the eight-team members who proudly represented Canada and secured a historic gold medal at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

In recognition of his remarkable achievements, Crawford and his fellow gold medal-winning crew members were enshrined in the British Columbia Sports Hall of Fame in 1985, the Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame in 2003, and the Canadian Rowing Hall of Fame in 2019. His prowess on the water was matched only by his dedication to academia, graduating from UVic with computer science and economics degrees. In 1985, Dean was honoured as the UVic Male Athlete of the Year, a testament to his excellence both on and off the rowing course.

"Dean was a cornerstone of UVic's hugely successful rowing crews in the early 80's. He was not only one of the greatest and most decorated rowers to come out of UVic, but he was also just a beautiful person, teammate and, most importantly, friend," said former men's eight teammate, Nick Toulmin.

Beyond his athletic triumphs, Crawford continued to contribute to the world of sports, serving as the president of Swim BC for six years. He later assumed the roles of vice president and chair of the Swimming Canada policy and governance committee. His commitment to the swimming community was unwavering, as he played a pivotal role in various capacities, leaving an indelible impact on the Canadian sports landscape.

Colleagues and friends remember Dean as a conscientious, dedicated, and determined individual—a force to be reckoned with. Peter Vizsolyi, UVic head swimming coach, fondly reflects on their 40-year friendship, highlighting Dean's unwavering support for Vikes swimming and his ongoing efforts to enhance facilities for future athletes.

"Dean was a friend who I knew for 40 years. I met him first as the site physician for the national rowing team; our daughters grew up and swam together, and his family became my patients," said Vizsolyi, a retired physician. 

"Over that time, we shared much in common, as he became the founding President of Pacific Coast Swimming, then the President of Swim BC, President of Swim Canada, and most recently, a Canadian Sport Institute Pacific board member. He was a great supporter of Vikes swimming, who even up until the end was trying to find ways for us to complete CARSA Phase II, which would include the new pool," he continued.

Crawford's influence extended far beyond his athletic achievements. He was a man of integrity, known for his adept navigation of challenges, balancing political finesse with a no-holds-barred approach when necessary. He fought for what he believed in, displaying the same qualities that propelled him to victory at the highest level of sport.

In his memory, let us celebrate not only the athlete but the man who remained dedicated to fostering excellence and ensuring a brighter future for the sporting community. Crawford's legacy lives on in the ripples of the water and the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.