My brother Dean, a hockey referee for over 16 years in San José, passed away suddenly on March 18, 2025 at the age of 56. Since hockey came to town with the creation of the Sharks franchise in 1991, the sport was a mainstay in Dean’s life, first roller hockey on the tennis courts of nearby high schools and then ice hockey at area rinks. Dean was a die-hard Penguins fan and Mario Lemieux was his favorite player. Refereeing didn’t come until some years later, but suited Dean perfectly, blending a deeper required knowledge of the sport, mentorship of other refs, and advancing the game for players at all levels.

According to fellow ref Daniel Garaycochea, “over the years Dean officiated an incredible 6,255 games at Sharks Ice (various youth and adult leagues), a testament to his dedication, his work ethic, and his love for the game. His first recorded game as a referee at Sharks Ice was on March 1, 2009, and his final game was on March 17, 2025—more than 16 years of service to the sport and the community. In a world where officials often go unnoticed, Dean left an impression on all of us.”

Our family is raising funds in Dean’s memory to provide assistance for youth hockey such as equipment/gear purchases and hockey camps, professional development and training for referees, and related programs to advance the sport in association with the Northern California Hockey Officials Association (NorHOA).

Please consider making a donation in Dean’s memory and join our family in giving back to the local hockey community that gave Dean so much. Any amount is greatly appreciated.