Duncan Pugh, an Australian bobsledder who competed from 2007, died on January 25 at the age of 48 after suffering from a bleed on the brain in his Perth home, his family announced Tuesday.

His family has been left “heartbroken and simply lost for words” after the Olympian died. He is survived by his wife, McKenzie, and two young sons.

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“We are heartbroken and simply lost for words. Taken far too soon,” his wife wrote in an online post. “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.”

Who was Duncan Pugh?

Duncan Pugh was born on December 2, 1974, in Great Britain, United Kingdom. He competed at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, Canada. However, he was forced to be out due to a crash early on in the two-man race that caused a concussion.

He debuted in 2007 at the European Cup. He won bronze alongside fellow Aussie Chris Spring at the 2009 America’s Cup in Calgary, Canada.

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“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,” read a Facebook post from Bobsleigh and Skeleton Australia. “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.”