10-Year-Old Hockey Fan Weston Paszkiewicz Dies After Leukemia Battle

LONG LAKE, Minn. — Weston Paszkiewicz, a 10-year-old boy who captured hearts with his love for hockey, has died after a battle with leukemia, his family announced on Tuesday.

Weston, who was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in January, passed away peacefully surrounded by family while watching a hockey game. His mother, Danielle Paszkiewicz, shared the news on social media, stating, “Weston, you are the most courageous, strong, resilient, incredible person ever and we love you forever.”

The Minnesota Wild, the NHL team that Weston admired, expressed their sorrow on social media. “He was such a courageous young man that will be greatly missed by everyone that had the opportunity to know him,” the team stated. “Our hearts are with his family and friends, and all those that were impacted by Weston’s brave fight.”

Before his passing, Weston achieved his dream of signing a one-day contract with the Minnesota Wild, facilitated by the Make-A-Wish Foundation. On October 30, he traveled with police escort to Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul where he signed the contract, toured the locker room, and participated in a morning skate with the team.

During the event, Weston skated the Wild flag to center ice before a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins, and was honored with a ‘player of the game’ helmet despite the Wild’s loss.

The Orono Youth Hockey organization, where Weston was known, shared their condolences on social media, calling him one of their “greatest warriors.” “Weston showed us every single day what true strength, bravery, and heart look like,” they wrote.

Many friends and supporters paid tribute to Weston, honoring his infectious spirit and love for life. Estes Parker, one of his coaches, reflected, “He was always happy, kind of goofy, wanting to be there, wanting to make other people happy.”

Weston’s family is now preparing for his funeral and healing from the loss, while community members have set up a fund to assist them.