Last night, we learned of the tragic passing of one of our friends and colleagues, Tim Allen of Canis Hoopus (SBN's Timberwolves site). Nathan and I have both met Tim personally, and had many conversations with him, and the the staff of CH. They are friends, and they are family. At a time like this, we want nothing more than to support them and let them know we are here for them.
SB Nation's basketball league manager, Seth Pollack has posted a statement over at CH that we want to share with you, and you can find it after the jump.
In the past year, we have lost three members of the Hockey Wilderness family. Last summer, Derek Boogaard, recently Jessica Redfield, and now Tim. Please be sure to tell those you love how you feel. Hug your friends, your family, your kids. Tell them you love them. When you get done, go back and tell them again.
I think I'm good on writing posts through tears for awhile now.
From Nathan:
Tim Allen of SBNation's Canis Hoopus lost his battle with depression on August 6, 2012.
Tim Allen was my friend. I met Tim through his covering the Timberwolves while I covered the Wild and our friendship grew through Twitter as well as in real life. Tim and I would exchange emails, Tweets and meet up on a regular basis to teach each other the game we loved and try to "convert" the other to a hockey/basketball fan. Tim was an effervescent man; soft-spoken, passionate, bright, inquisitive and joyful to be around.
The world lost a wonderful man. Please, if you are suffering from depression or other mental health issues, know that you are not alone. Reach out. Talk. If you suspect someone needs help, offer them a kind ear or a caring hand. If you are able please consider joining me in giving a donation in Tim's name to the Mental Health Association of Minnesota (http://www.mentalhealthmn.org) to help others facing mental health issues.
Donate online to Tim Allen Memorial at Razoo
Statement from Seth on Canis Hoopus:
We are deeply saddened to report the passing of Tim Allen. At this time, details surrounding his death are still unconfirmed and we urge everyone to respect the privacy of his family. The only thing that matters right now is the loss of our friend. We confirmed Tim's death with the proper authorities.
All of SB Nation is struck by this tragic loss including those of us who had a chance to meet Tim in person and those who only knew him through his great work here at Canis Hoopus. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tim's family and friends as they mourn his passing.
We delayed publishing this news as long as we could out of respect to Tim's family. We wanted to given them as much time as possible to share this devastating news with those they needed to inform.
In the coming hours and days we will follow up with more information about donations in Tim's name and other details as appropriate.
On a personal note, as the NBA League Manager for SB Nation I had the pleasure of working with Tim and was able to spend some time with him in Las Vegas just a few weeks ago. I don't need to tell you what a great person he was and how much insight and pleasure he brought to our world. His departure leaves a giant hole in our lives.
The entire SB Nation family stands with this community and with Tim's family. We will do everything possible to honor his life and mourn his passing as best we can.
Rest in peace, Tim.