Former North Bay Battalion player, 23, passes away after cancer battle

WATCH: Kurtis Evans' first OHL goal with Battalion Video footage of Kurtis Evans' first Ontario Hockey League goal with the North Bay Battalion.

The North Bay Battalion hockey team is mourning the loss of a former player who died at 23 after a battle with cancer.

Kurtis Evans, of Uxbridge, Ont., played centre on the Central Ontario Wolves AAA U15-U18 teams before being picked in the third round by the Ontario Hockey League team.

Evans played for the Battalion for three seasons from 2017 to 2019 before retiring.

He passed away Oct. 3 at home surrounded by his loving family, his obituary said.

"Kurtis was known for his radiant smile and his kind, compassionate soul," it said.

"He had an extraordinary gift for forming deep connections with people from all walks of life, remaining steadfastly dedicated to his friends and loved ones."

Evans is remembered by loved ones as a "natural athlete" who thrived in various sports and had a deep passion for the outdoors.