Mark Pavelich, a member of the 1980 Olympic hockey team “Miracle on Ice” since 1980, was found dead at a treatment facility in Minnesota, US Hockey confirmed Friday.
The cause of death was not immediately known. Pavelich was 63 years old.
“We are saddened to hear about the passing of the 1980 Olympic gold medalist, Mark Pavelich,” USA Hockey wrote on Twitter. “We extend our deepest condolences to Mark’s family and friends. Forever a part of hockey history.”
(Minneapolis) Star Tribune first reported details on Pavelich’s death. According to the newspaper, police were called to Pavelich’s residence on Thursday at about 8:30 a.m. local time on Thursday, where he was found dead. He was last seen on Wednesday, around 20:00, at the headquarters, where he was receiving mental health treatment.
Pavelich lived in the unit after a court ruled he was unfit to be tried for an August 2019 attack on his neighbor. Pavelich was charged with four counts of murder for assault, which left the victim with several broken bones.
The judge said Pavelich “does not have the ability to consult rationally with lawyers, is unable to understand the procedures and is unable to participate in the defense due to a mental illness or deficiency.” Pavelich assaulted his neighbor with a metal rod.
Pavelich’s sister, Jean Gevik, told the Star Tribune in 2019 that the family believed Pavelich could suffer from chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).
“Mark is the kindest and gentlest person you’ve ever met,” Gevik told the newspaper. “This is a totally different guy.” Gevik said her brother had a history of contusions in the NHL.
Pavelich, a 5-foot-8 center, was All-American at the University of Minnesota Duluth. He witnessed Mike Eruzione’s winning goal, which led to the much-favored Soviet Union at the 1980 Olympics. Pavelich played in the NHL from 1981 to 1987 and the 1991-92 season. He spent five seasons with the New York Rangers and also played for the San Jose Sharks and Minnesota North Stars.
“New York Rangers are saddened to learn of Mark Pavelich’s passing,” Rangers said in a statement. “His determination, passion and ability to play blindly brought him the adoration of Rangers fans during his five-year tenure in New York. Mark helped inspire a nation through the full role he played in the Miracle on Ice team at the 1980 Winter Olympics. Our thoughts are with Mark’s loved ones at this difficult time. “