My name is Chris Ellis and I am raising funds to honor the life of my younger brother, Brad. His passing was sudden and has left our family heartbroken and searching for words.

Brad’s love for hockey ran deep. He played for Team USA ’87, won national championships, and earned multiple fastest skater awards in skills competitions. But what stood out even more than the trophies was the way he treated people—teammates, coaches, and friends still tell us stories of his kindness and generosity that we’re only now discovering.

He shared a deep and devoted relationship with Vicky, and the way he loved her showed the same loyalty and warmth he gave to everyone close to him.

To our family, Brad was more than a gifted athlete. He was the uncle who lit up every room he walked into. My daughter Aviana would ask every week, “When is my favorite Uncle Brad coming over?” and he always spent each visit completely focused on her. He was a constant source of fun and love, never too busy to make a child feel like the center of his world.

Most recently Brad worked for a logistics company with his best friend Ian, building friendships there that mirrored the lifelong bonds he made on the ice.

We know Brad’s friends and coworkers have already created a separate GoFundMe to honor him, and we are deeply grateful for their love and support. This page is a family-organized fundraiser to help with Brad’s celebration of life, which will take place in the very near future, most likely in Huntington Beach, California. If you would like to attend, please reach out to me directly so I can add you to the list of attendees.

We would also love to gather stories, photos, or anything special you’d like to share about Brad. Your memories mean so much to us and will help us keep his spirit alive.

Thank you for your generosity and for helping us give Brad the farewell that matches the big heart and unforgettable life he shared with all of us.