The ‘State of Hockey’ has lost one of its brightest lights. Jessi Pierce, along with her three children and family dog perished in a house fire early Saturday morning In White Bear Lake. Pierce spent more than a decade covering the NHL, mostly as a contributor to NHL.com while covering the Minnesota Wild. She also contributed to other local outlets and was a mainstay at Hobey Baker Award events.

 To know Jessi Pierce was to know a fierce advocate, a brilliant hockey mind, and—most importantly—a deeply kind soul. Her dedication to the game was matched only by her generosity toward the people within it. Jessi didn’t just understand hockey; she championed it. Whether she was debating a play or simply offering a kind word, she gave her time freely and without expectation.

Lost in the fire were her three children: Hudson, Cayden and Avery. Jessi attended the Hobey Baker Memorial Award Banquet and Golf Tournament almost every year. While her hockey IQ was second to none, she brought a different kind of brilliance to the golf course – a bright light and a warmth that made every round better for those around her. 

We are heartbroken by her passing, but we are so much better for having known her. She was a mentor, a friend, and a tireless cheerleader for the game we all love. Her absence will be deeply felt, but her kindness will not be forgotten.