Mark Pavelich, a member of the 1980 U.S. “Miracle on Ice” American Olympic hockey team, was found dead at a treatment center in central Minnesota.
The 63-year-old died at Eagle’s Healing Nest, where he was receiving mental health treatment, according to the Minnesota Star Tribune. Pavelich was civilly committed to assaulting his neighbor with a four-foot metal pipe in August 2019.
Emergency police were called to Pavelich’s residence around 8:30 a.m. Thursday after the reported death. No one had seen the former NHLer since 8pm the day before.
The cause of death was not immediately known.
Pavelich acted for the American squad at Lake Placid, picking up an assist on Mike Eruzione’s goal which he won in a mess by the famous Russian national team. The Americans beat Finland for the gold medal.
“We are saddened to learn of the passing of 1980 Olympic gold medalist Mark Pavelich,” Hockey posted on Twitter. “We extend our deepest condolences to Mark’s family and friends. “Forever a part of hockey history.”
The 5-foot-7 native of Minnesota continued a seven-year career in the NHL that began in 1981, including stops with the Rangers, Minnesota North Stars and San Jose Sharks.
“The New York Rangers are saddened to learn of Mark Pavelich’s passing,” the Rangers said in a statement. “His determination, passion and dazzling ability earned him the adoration of Rangers fans during his five-year tenure in New York. Mark helped inspire a nation through the integral role he played on the “Miracle on Ice” team at the 1980 Winter Olympics. Our thoughts are with Mark’s loved ones during this difficult time. “