Minnesota Wild Community Grieves the Passing of Weston Paszkiewicz
The MN Wild organization and fans across Minnesota are mourning the loss of 10-year-old Weston Paszkiewicz, a brave young boy who captured hearts after signing a one-day contract with the Minnesota Wild as part of his Make-A-Wish dream. Weston passed away on Tuesday night following a courageous battle with cancer, his family confirmed in a heartfelt post on CaringBridge.
His mother, Danielle Paszkiewicz, shared that Weston died peacefully at home while watching a hockey game with his family. “He has completed his battle with cancer and, as our kids say, is now cancer free,” she wrote. “Weston, you are the most courageous, strong, resilient, incredible person ever and we love you forever.”
A Young Life That Inspired the MN Wild Family
Earlier this year, Weston had the chance to live out his dream — joining the MN Wild hockey team for a day in October. He signed a one-day contract with the franchise, donning the Wild jersey, meeting players, and experiencing the excitement of professional hockey firsthand. The team’s players, coaches, and staff embraced him as one of their own, celebrating his strength and love for the sport.
Following his passing, the Minnesota Wild released a touching statement:
“We are devastated to learn of Weston’s passing. He was such a courageous young man that will be greatly missed by everyone that had the opportunity to know him. Our hearts are with his family and friends, and all those that were impacted by Weston’s brave fight.”
The Wild hockey community responded with an outpouring of love and support, uniting around the message #SticksOutForWeston — a tribute encouraging families to place a hockey stick outside their homes in his memory.
Weston’s Battle with Cancer
Weston’s journey began nearly a year ago, around Christmas 2024, when he started feeling unwell. After several hospital visits, doctors diagnosed him with Acute Myeloid Leukemia, an aggressive form of blood cancer. He immediately began treatment and fought valiantly for months, supported by his family, friends, and the MN Wild hockey community.
Throughout his treatment, Weston remained positive and determined, drawing strength from his love of hockey and the team he admired most. His story spread across Minnesota and beyond, inspiring thousands and bringing awareness to pediatric cancer.
The Impact of a Community United Through Hockey
The MN Wild have long been recognized for their strong community spirit, but Weston’s story resonated deeply even by their standards. Fans, players, and staff alike took to social media to share condolences, memories, and messages of hope. Wild captain Jared Spurgeon and several players expressed their sorrow, calling Weston “an honorary teammate who embodied true courage.”
Hockey families across Minnesota joined the “sticks out” tribute — a powerful gesture symbolizing the hockey world’s solidarity and love. The Wild hockey organization also paid tribute by highlighting Weston’s story during their next home game, celebrating his legacy with a moment of silence and a video montage.
A Legacy That Lives On Beyond the Ice
Weston’s one-day contract with the MN Wild was more than a Make-A-Wish experience — it became a lasting symbol of strength, unity, and compassion. His smile, resilience, and love for hockey left a mark on everyone who met him.
In her message, Danielle Paszkiewicz expressed gratitude to the Wild and the community for their overwhelming support. “The way the MN Wild family has loved Weston and our family has been beyond what we could have imagined,” she wrote.
As Minnesota continues to grieve, fans say Weston’s memory will live on in every goal scored, every child who dreams of stepping onto the ice, and every act of kindness shared within the Wild hockey community.
Final Thoughts
The story of Weston Paszkiewicz reminds us of the deep connection between sports and the human spirit. The MN Wild didn’t just make a young boy’s wish come true — they welcomed him as family, showing how compassion can make a lasting difference.
While Weston’s life was far too short, his bravery and joy continue to inspire thousands. The entire MN Wild hockey community stands united in honoring his legacy — one stick, one heart, and one game at a time.
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