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Victoria HarbourCats give away funeral to lucky fan

Just in case you die of excitement, all the bases are covered
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The Victoria HarbourCats are giving away their second funeral package at the game on June 26. (File Photo/Black Press Media)

Sitting in the stand of a baseball game with the sun out and hot dog in hand seems like the ideal time to start planning for the day you die, right?

Well at a Victoria HarbourCats game it is. The team is giving away a End of Life package including will planning, insurance and investment advice and of course, a funeral.

The contest made its debut last summer, called ‘the last prize you’ll ever have to win,’ garnering national and international media interest.

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On June 26, when the HarbourCats take on the Wenatchee AppleSox, fans attending the game must purchase a game-day program, fill in the prize ballot and deposit it in the prize box at the Information Booth.

“We’re trying to keep this light, but at the same time, this is an important issue and one we all need to give some thought to, so our families are looked after,” said Jim Swanson, general manager of the HarbourCats. “Recent deaths in my family have underscored this importance, and our venue is a perfect vehicle to get this message across the plate.”

Last year’s winner works as a drill-blaster and was excited to win due to the dangerous nature of his work. Concerned about his safety while also supporting his family, the winner can rest easy now figuratively and literally.

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Teaming with Qualicum Beach Memorial Services and H.W. Wallace Cremation Service to provide a base funeral and cremation package valued at more than $5,000.

Mary S. McManus, barrister and solicitor with Stevenson Doell Law Corporation will provide a will, power of attorney and advanced directive health care — worth $800 — helping the winner ensure their family is looked after.

Mike Reilly, Freedom 55 Financial Officer and long-time HarbourCats supporter, will provide a comprehensive and complimentary retirement or estate plan, assessing all the aspect of insurance, financial goals, wealth management, valued at $500. Reilly will also donate the first $500 of any further commissions from this to the HarbourCats Foundation.

“Victoria is a great city, many people who move here to enjoy the twilight of their lives, and not everyone has put these plans in place,” said Swanson. “This is about awareness, and we hope this night leads to more people getting all their affairs in order.”



kendra.crighton@blackpress.ca

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