Mark Wells, a member of the celebrated 1980 gold medal-winning U.S. Olympic hockey team, died on May 18 at the age of 66. Bowling Green State University, where Wells was an alumnus, and USA Hockey confirmed his passing. Wells was a key player in the famous Miracle on Ice game and was cherished as a significant figure in the hockey world and a dear friend.
Born in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, Wells played college hockey at Bowling Green from 1975 until 1979. He suffered a minor ankle fracture just four months before the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York, which almost prevented him from participating. Despite this setback, he was the last player chosen by Coach Herb Brooks to join the team.
In the games, Wells was a key defensive center, playing in all seven matches, scoring two goals, and assisting another. He played a significant part in the U.S. team’s historic win over the Soviet Union, a moment known as the Miracle on Ice, which is still one of the most revered events in sports history.
Mike Eruzione, the captain of the 1980 Olympic team, expressed his sorrow on Twitter, writing, “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’ post-Olympic life was fraught with difficulties. He attempted a professional career, playing nine games with the Montreal Canadiens’ top farm team, the Nova Scotia Voyageurs, before being traded to the Detroit Red Wings. However, he never played in the NHL and ended his career in the minor leagues in 1982.
Wells was forced into early retirement due to debilitating back issues caused by a rare spinal cord disease, resulting in multiple surgeries and hefty medical bills. In a bid to offset these costs, he sold his Olympic gold medal for around $40,000, a price much lower than the $310,700 it later sold for at an auction.
Wells stayed active in his community despite these adversities. He frequented civic events, gave inspirational talks, and was inducted into the Bowling Green State University Athletic Hall of Fame in 1992. In 2014, his hometown honored him by naming a rink at the Civic Arena after him.
Wells’ official Facebook page announced his death with a poignant 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 released a statement paying homage to Wells: “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’ contribution to the 1980 team’s triumph and his efforts to conquer adversity have left an indelible mark on all who knew him. He is survived by his family and loved ones, who have asked for privacy at this difficult time.
