Mark Wells, a forward on the iconic 1980 gold medal-winning U.S. Olympic hockey team, passed away at age 66 on May 18. His alma mater, Bowling Green State University, and USA Hockey confirmed his death. Known for his role in the Miracle on Ice, Wells was remembered not just as an Olympic hero but also as a beloved friend and a significant figure in the hockey community.

Wells was born in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, and played college hockey at Bowling Green from 1975 to 1979. His journey to the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid was marked by perseverance. Just four months before the games, Wells suffered a hairline fracture in his ankle, casting doubt on his participation. However, he made the final roster as the last player selected by head coach Herb Brooks.

At the Olympics, Wells played a crucial role as a defensive center, known for shutting down opponents rather than scoring goals. He participated in all seven games, netting two goals and providing an assist, playing a key role in the team’s historic victory over the Soviet Union. This victory, part of what is famously known as the Miracle on Ice, remains one of the most celebrated moments in sports history.

Mike Eruzione, captain of the 1980 Olympic team, shared his grief on Twitter, noting, “It’s a sad day for our 1980 Olympic team. Yesterday, we lost Number 15, Mark Wells. He was a fantastic teammate and an excellent hockey player. We will miss him dearly.”

Wells’ life after the Olympics was challenging. He briefly pursued a professional career, playing nine games with the Nova Scotia Voyageurs, the Montreal Canadiens’ top farm team, before being traded to the Detroit Red Wings. Unfortunately, he never played in the NHL and moved around the minor leagues before retiring in 1982.

Severe back problems stemming from a rare spinal cord disease forced Wells into early retirement. This condition led to multiple surgeries and significant medical expenses. To cover these costs, Wells made the difficult decision to sell his Olympic gold medal for around $40,000, a sum far less than the $310,700 it later fetched at auction.

Despite these hardships, Wells remained active in his community. He attended civic events, gave motivational speeches, and was inducted into the Bowling Green State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 1992. In 2014, his hometown of St. Clair Shores honored him by renaming a rink in the Civic Arena after him.

Wells’ story is one of resilience. He faced financial struggles, health issues, and the emotional toll of his condition, yet he continued to inspire others through his story. His passing was announced on his official Facebook page with a touching message: “He was far more than just an Olympic hero or ‘The Commish.’ He was a friend to everyone he encountered and simply a great man.”

USA Hockey paid tribute to Wells with a statement: “A stick salute to Mark Wells, who helped the U.S. win gold at the 1980 Olympic Winter Games. The Detroit native passed away this weekend, and we extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends. His influence on the sport will be enduring and felt for generations.

Wells’ legacy in the hockey world is undeniable. His contribution to the 1980 team’s success and his subsequent efforts to share his journey of overcoming adversity left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Wells is survived by his family and loved ones, who have requested privacy during this time of mourning.