The hockey community is in mourning following the death of former La Ronge Ice Wolves forward Nakehko Lamothe.
Lamothe was just 23 years old and in his third season of college hockey with the Grant MacEwan Griffins in the ACAC.
“It’s difficult to comprehend the pain Nakehko’s family is going through right now. We will do whatever we can to assist them during this tragic time,” said Dr. Deborah Saucier, the president of MacEwan University in a news release.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and teammates, who Nakehko considered to be family. The university is putting support services in place to help them through this difficult time.”
According to a news release issued by MacEwan University, Lamothe played a game in Calgary, AB on Friday night, but became unwell and was sent to Foothills Hospital. The university says before midnight, he passed away.
Prior to joining the Griffins, the Bigstone Cree Nation product spent parts of two seasons with the La Ronge Ice Wolves in the SJHL. During the 2016 playoffs, Lamothe tallied nine points in seven games and took home team playoff MVP honours, as well as the most community-minded award.
“I can’t put into words what a great guy Nakehko was, he loved his hockey and was never afraid to stand up for himself and his teammates. He was always willing and wanting to do whatever he could for our community,” said Lynnette Merriman, who serves on the board of directors for the La Ronge Ice Wolves.
“Talking with a few of his teammates today, they all said he loved his time in La Ronge probably as much as we loved having him here. So many memories of Nakehko and every one of them makes me smile. Condolences to all his teammates, past and present and to his family — big hugs.”
Prior to being traded to the La Ronge Ice Wolves, Lamothe spent parts of two seasons in the MJHL with the OCN Blizzard.
“He was such a nice kid,” said Jaret Schneider, who served as the radio broadcaster in OCN when Lamothe played there. “He was tough, he was physical, he was mean on the ice, but off the ice, he was just such a great kid. I mean, he was so welcoming, that was the first thing that I remember about him.”
Prior to Thursday’s La Ronge Ice Wolves game against the Notre Dame Hounds, the team will hold a moment of silence in honour of Nakehko.
(PHOTO: Nakehko Lamothe. Photo courtesy of La Ronge Ice Wolves.)