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Tributes pour in for Ice Bucket Challenge hero Pete Frates

BOSTON — Beverly native and ALS Ice Bucket Challenge creator Pete Frates has died at the age of 34.

Frates grew up on the North Shore and lived a busy life, having an immeasurable impact on the world through his activism following his diagnosis of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.

Tributes poured in from around the world for the former Boston College baseball player.

READ MORE: Beverly native, ALS ice bucket challenge hero Pete Frates has died

The Boston Red Sox issued a statement following the news of Frates' death on Monday:

The Red Sox today issued the following statements regarding the passing of their honorary Red Sox player, Pete Frates, who was presented with a professional baseball contract by the club in 2013.

"Never in the history of baseball have we seen a person's efforts outside of the game gain him a professional baseball contract and a home in the National Baseball Hall of Fame," said Red Sox Principal Owner John Henry. "Such was the enormity of Pete Frates' impact. His efforts will not only be felt in the labs of ALS researchers across the country, but also within the walls of Fenway Park where his spirit will remain with us, always. Our condolences to his wife Julie, his daughter Lucy, his parents John and Nancy, and siblings Andrew and Jennifer."

"While battling one of the world's darkest diseases, Pete taught us how undaunted optimism can lay the groundwork to inspire a revolutionary movement," said Red Sox Chairman Tom Werner. "He did more to raise awareness for ALS during his lifetime than anyone in the past eighty years since Lou Gehrig delivered his "Luckiest Man" speech. He and his family are loved by many in our front office and we offer them our deepest condolences."

"Behind every Red Sox fan, there's a story," said Red Sox President and CEO Sam Kennedy. "We are so very proud that Pete's story led him through Fenway Park as a player, and later, as an icon and member of our family. His legacy will affect generations of ALS patients nationwide, and his courage will be remembered by all of us. We were privileged to have known him, and honored that he was part of our team."

A candlelight vigil at Pete's Park in Beverly is planned for Tuesday at 6 p.m.

Cox Media Group

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