Tributes for ‘life’s legend’
A YOUNG Toowoomba man described by friends as “one of life’s legends” has died in a tragic canoeing incident in Canada.
Bennett Zeller, 22, had been canoeing with a Canadian friend in Georgian Bay near Ontario on Thursday when the raft capsized.
His friend, 26, was able to swim to shore and was taken to hospital with hypothermia while authorities launched an extensive search to locate Mr Zeller.
His body was found on Monday (local time). His death is not being treated as suspicious.
Tributes shared on social media describe Mr Zeller as a great friend who touched many people’s lives.
“Today confirms the day we lost one of life’s legends,” Zac McDonald wrote.
“You were a true inspiration and a good friend. We’ll always miss you buddy.”
Mr Zeller’s Facebook profile shows he had travelled around the world and had worked for a time in Peru.
The former University of Southern Queensland student had not been wearing a life jacket, reported The Canadian Press.
It is understood Mr Zeller’s family is in Canada and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has offered consular support.
Social media posts suggest Mr Zeller worked at the Sasquatch Mountain Resort in British Columbia, with friend Richmond Wright writing of the loss he felt at his death.
“He was the brightest soul I met at all my years on these slopes,” he said.
“He inspired me so much and gave me hope in life, influenced many of my friends.
“You will be missed my friend.”