Mark Pavelich, a member of the American “Miracle on Ice” American hockey team in 1980, was found dead in a treatment facility in Central Minnesota.
The 63-year-old died according to the Minnesota Star Tribune in Eagle’s Healing Nest, where he received mental treatment. Pavelich was under civil bondage because he assaulted his neighbor in August 2019 with a four-foot metal pipe.
Emergency police were called to Pavelich’s home around 8:30 a.m. Thursday after a reported death. No one has seen the former NHLer since 8pm the previous day.
Cause of death was not immediately known.
Pavelich played a star in the American group in Lake Placid and enlisted help for Mike Eruzione’s goal which was the winner in a upset over the popular Russian team. The Americans beat Finland for the gold medal.
“We are saddened to hear of the passing of Olympic gold medalist Mark Pavelich in 1980,” USA Hockey tweeted. “We express our deepest condolences to Mark’s family and friends. “Forever a part of hockey history”.
The 5-foot-7 Minnesota native began a seven-year NHL career that began in 1981, including stoppages with the Rangers, Minnesota North Stars and San Jose Sharks.
“The New York Rangers are saddened by the death of Mark Pavelich,” the Rangers said in a statement. “His determination, passion and brilliant playing ability earned him the worship of Rangers fans during his five-year term in New York. Mark helped inspire a nation through the integral role he played in the ‘Miracle on Ice’ team at the 1980 Winter Olympics. We think of Mark’s loved ones during this difficult time. ”