Vintage Minnesota Hockey - History

Pat grew up in hockey country – Eveleth, MN – and played hockey in high school for the Golden Bears. He attended and played hockey for American International College in Springfield, MA. Knee injuries put an end to his hockey aspirations but didn't end his involvement with the game. He was just getting started! Pat graduated from Bemidji State with a BA in Education and a MA from Hamline University.  His elementary school teaching and high school hockey coaching career spanned over 25 years including the Austin, Mora, Brainerd, St. Cloud and Sartell school districts.  He spent five years working with the Minnesota Select 17's, two years in the Upper Midwest Elite League and then onto St. John's University in Collegeville.  In 2006, Pat was diagnosed with Thymic carcinoid cancer.  Although he was given six months to live at the time of his diagnoses, he would spend the next 11 years battling the disease with the same attitude and intensity as he applied when coaching.  Pat's mantra was "When the well goes dry, dig deeper".  Simply giving up was never an option.  He created a strong work ethic for his teams, encouraging them to never give up regardless of the score; play to the best of your ability throughout the game.  Pat attacked cancer with the same determination.  Over the past several years, Pat inspired others through motivational speaking engagements. He spoke at youth hockey events, high schools and colleges.  In December 2016 Pat was presented with the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame 'Spirit of Life' award in recognition for, while battling for his own life, he continued to inspire and make a difference in the lives of young athletes. He had the pleasure of leading a "Let's Play Hockey" chant at the beginning of the Minnesota Wild game on Hockey Day Minnesota 2017. Pat taught more than math and science to his students and more than hockey to his players. He taught them about life.  Pat passed away June 10, 2017