Mike Fazio, Hockey player passed away at 31

Mike Fazio, a former forward with the Wheeling Nailers and a beloved figure in the world of hockey, passed away on Thursday, September 28, at the age of 31. His life was a testament to the passion, dedication, and profound impact one person can have on a sport and its community.

Read on to know more about his cause of death in detail.

What happened to Mike Fazio?

Mike Fazio, a member of the ECHL family has passed away on September 28, 2023. The Wheeling Nailers announced today via their official social media that Mike Fazio, a former forward, has died.

Chicago Steel Hockey Team also posted this sad news saying,

We are heartbroken for the passing of our Assistant General Manager, Mike Fazio, who died Thursday after a battle with testicular cancer. Mike embodied the spirit of the Chicago Steel and cherished every moment he spent playing, coaching and watching the game he loved. He and his family will forever be part of the Steel Family.

After spending the prior season with the Evansville Thunderbolts of the SPHL, Fazio appeared in 28 games with the Nailers in 2018–19.

Who was Mike Fazio?

Fazio, a native of Bartlett, Illinois, played youth hockey for the Geneva Cyclones Amateur Hockey Club at Fox Valley Ice Arena and formerly skated for the WIAC’s University of Wisconsin – River Falls.

In 2019, Fazio made the switch to coaching, taking on roles as the Lead Instructor at MAP Hockey in Minnesota and the Director of Player Development. He also served as an Assistant Coach of the Hudson Havoc of the USPHL.

Additionally, he worked with the Jamestown Rebels of the NAHL as a regional scout for Minnesota, and most recently, he was the assistant general manager and director of player enhancement for the Chicago Steel of the USHL.

Mike Fazio cause of death:

Mike Fazio passed away after a battle with testicular cancer. He was a mentor and a friend to his players, instilling in them a love for the game that would last a lifetime.

Many of his former players have gone on to have successful careers in hockey and credit Fazio as a significant influence in their lives.

In addition to his coaching achievements, Mike was a loving family member and a cherished friend. The hockey community has lost not only a legendary coach but also a beloved mentor and friend.

Mike’s impact on the sport and the lives of those he touched will be remembered and celebrated for generations to come. Tributes flooded social media after his sudden demise news broke out.

Condolences to Mike Fazio:

Cory Lushanko posted,

RIP to the Mike Fazio was a great teammate, roommate, linemate & friend. Huge loss for UWRF Men’s Hockey & anyone that knew Faz. Blessings and prayers to Mikes loved ones during this time.

Darcy Walsh posted,

Sad day today. Lost a really amazing friend and person in Mike Fazio. Only knew Mike for 1.5yrs but had the pleasure of talking Chicago Steel and prospects a few times a week over that time. Mike was the type of guy that once you established a friendship you felt like you’ve known him all your life. Rest Easy Faz, it was an honour and pleasure calling you my friend! My condolences to Mikes wife, family and friends. He will be massively missed by many! Xo

UWRF Men’s Hockey posted,

We are devastated to share the news of the passing of Falcon Hockey Alumni, Mike Fazio, after a courageous battle with testicular cancer. Mike was the best teammate, an amazing human being and a true warrior all the way to the end.
Mike and his family will always be a part of the Falcon Family. Love you Faz

UWRF Athletics posted,

We are saddened by the loss of Falcon alum Mike Fazio (2013-17), who passed away after a fight with cancer at the age of 31.
UWRF Athletics sends its heartfelt condolences to the Fazio and UWRF Men’s Hockey friends and family.

VSA__Hockey posted,

We are saddened to hear about the loss of our former skills coach Mike Fazio. Coach Fazio passed away Thursday after a battle with testicular cancer. Fazio was one of a kind and always brought the positive energy. Our condolences to the Fazio family.

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