It is with deep sadness the Hamilton Tiger-Cats learned of the passing of former Chairman of the Board of Directors and Governor of the Canadian Football League, Roger Yachetti.

Yachetti, who served just over three years as Chairman of the Tiger-Cats from 1992 to 1995, was instrumental in the survival of the Hamilton CFL franchise in 1992. After assembling a community-based consortium to purchase the franchise, he spearheaded an effort by Ticats’ staff to rebuild the team’s profile and base of support.

“We mourn the passing of a great Tiger-Cats supporter, former investor and executive, Roger Yachetti,” said Bob Young, Caretaker of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. “Roger’s contributions to the team will always be an important part of our history. Our sincerest condolences go out to his family and friends.”

Yachetti was a lawyer for over 50 years who practiced entirely in the field of litigation, both Civil and Criminal, distinguishing himself as a leading litigator. The University of Western graduate was recognized as such by being appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1979, and was awarded the Hamilton Law Association’s Emilius Irving Award for outstanding contribution in 2004. He was a Bencher of the Law of Upper Canada, the governing body of Ontario, since 1979.

After being elected on four separate occasions and serving 16 years as an Elected Bencher, Yachetti opted to become a Life Bencher of the Law Society of Upper Canada in 1995. In addition, he received the Paul Harris Fellowship by the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International in 1994, was named the Italo-Canadian Citizen of the Year in 1995, and was inducted into the Gallery of Distinction for the City of Hamilton in 1997.