Duncan Pugh dead at 48: Tributes paid to Winter Olympic star after sudden death from brain aneurysm

AUSTRALIAN bobsledder Duncan Pugh has tragically passed away aged 48.

The Olympian died this past weekend after suffering a sudden brain aneurysm in his hometown of Perth.

Australian bobsledder Duncan Pugh has tragically passed away aged 48FACEBOOK

The late Pugh leaves behind his wife McKenzie and their two young sons.

A heartbroken McKenzie released a statement following her husband’s tragic passing.

She said: “We are heartbroken and simply lost for words.

“Taken far too soon.

“You were the rock of our family and wore your heart on your sleeve.

“You were so very proud of our two boys, the best dad anyone could have hoped for.

“Your passion and determination will forever live on in our boys.

“You made me feel the centre of your world. We hope you’re hanging out up there with Dougie.

“Love you always, your loving wife Kenz, boys Charlie and George and furbaby Lola.”

Pugh taught at a catholic school for 17 years prior to his death.

And the school – Newman College in Perth – paid tribute to him on social media.

The tweeted: “Today we share with our community the tragic news of the passing of much-loved teacher Mr Duncan Pugh.

“This beautiful image was provided by his loving wife McKenzie.

“Please keep McKenzie and sons, Charlie and George in your prayers.”

Bobsleigh and Skeleton Australia also paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Olympian.

In a Facebook post, they wrote: “Our small bobsleigh family has taken a big hit this week with the passing of Pughie – Duncan Pugh Vancouver 2010 Olympian, was and will always be remembered as a legend.

“A fantastic father to his boys, a beloved husband, son, brother and uncle to his family.

“An Olympian with a continued passion for sport.

“He was adored and highly respected as a teacher and loved by all his friends.

“Anyone that had a one-on-one conversation with Dunc will know exactly how easy it was to feel comfortable in his presence and grateful for his friendship.”

Pugh began his competitive bobsledding career in 2007, with his career-best finish of third coming in a two-man event in Calgary in December 2009.

He competed in the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, although his tournament came to a premature end when he crashed out during the first run of the two-man event and suffered a concussion.