1980 Olympian and Wisconsin Hockey Legend Bob Suter Passes Away

Multiple outlets are confirming the first report by Andy Baggott of the Wisconsin State Journal that Bob Suter has died of an apparent heart attack at the age of 57.

Suter leaves behind an indelible mark on the game of hockey in Wisconsin. He grew up playing high school hockey in Madison before staying home to play college hockey for the Wisconsin Badgers. He was a member of the Badgers national championship-winning squad in 1977.  After leaving Wisconsin, Suter was a member of the 1980 USA Men's Olympic Team, where he won a gold medal as part of the 'Miracle on Ice' team.

Following a brief pro career, Suter returned to the Madison area, where he operated a sporting goods store, and remained a key figure in Wisconsin youth hockey as head of the Madison Capitols AAA. His oldest son Ryan followed in his father's footsteps by starring at the University of Wisconsin, and winning gold medals for the United States at the World U18 and U20 championships, along with an Olympic silver medal. Ryan currently plays defense for the Minnesota Wild. His younger son Garrett also committed to play at the University of Wisconsin, though ultimately played Division III hockey due to academic difficulties.

Andy Johnson of Bucky's Fifth Quarter has more on Suter's legacy.