Statement on the Passing of Chris Abbott

The Board and staff of St. John’s Sports and Entertainment Limited and the Council and staff of the City of St. John’s are deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Chris Abbott.

Chris was a long-time employee, having started at Memorial Stadium in the concessions area before moving to a security/ usher position and finally becoming a member of our maintenance team. Working in our stadiums ran in the family, as his father Wally was a long-time Memorial Stadium employee as well.

Chris excelled in his maintenance position and loved his work and team. He was very proud to be an employee of Mary Brown’s Centre, and you could always hear him coming as he was always singing.  He will be deeply missed by the staff at the Mary Brown’s Centre who are in shock at his sudden passing.

Of course, Chris was beloved by many who may never have known the man behind the iconic character, 'Buddy the Puffin'. Buddy has become a symbol of all things local for St. John’s, performing as the mascot for no less than four tenant teams. As Buddy, Chris entertained, hugged and high-fived tens of thousands of children since 1994, all of whom he met with enthusiasm and pure joy – not to mention the many adults whose day was brightened by this larger-than-life personality.

We send our deepest condolences to Chris’s wife, family, friends, colleagues and fans.

Danny Breen
Chair, SJSEL and Mayor, City of St. John’s