Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise in the House to recognize the life of great individual from Charlottetown, Jacob Knockwood, who passed away earlier this week.
Jake was known for hanging out on his bench in downtown Charlottetown. There, he loved to listen to his Walkman, usually decked out in some Montreal Canadiens paraphernalia. He always appreciated any mention of his beloved Habs from passersby.
Jake was an avid sportsman, bringing home countless medals in the Special Olympics as the goalie for the floor hockey team. Jake was born with a cleft lip and palate. He became a champion for the rights of people with disabilities out of necessity when he was placed in a psychiatric institution against his will.
My heart was warmed to learn that Jake had his last eight months out of hospital, living with his advocate and friend, Pat Sobey.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for letting me stand to recognize Jake and his downtown family in Charlottetown.