Friday, November 22, 2013

OHL Mourns the loss of Ken Bodendistel

Press Release

The Ontario Hockey League lost a member of its family on Thursday with the passing of longtime OHL Officiating Supervisor Mr. Ken Bodendistel, 73, after a courageous battle with cancer.

A true builder of the OHL and the Officiating Program, this season marked Ken’s 40th year of OHL service.

Beginning as a Supervisor in 1974-75, his career also included a 12-year term as the league’s Director of Officiating from 1982-94 and most recently serving as Senior Officiating Manager for the past five seasons.  He began his officiating career in the 1960’s skating in the OHA and OHA Jr. A through 1968-69 before he was signed by the NHL.  Bodendistel worked professionally for two seasons in the NHL, WHL, and CHL before returning to referee OHA Jr. A for his final three seasons from 1971-72 to 1973-74.

In August, the Board of Governor’s established a new award for League on-ice officials entitled “The Bodie”, recognizing Ken for his contributions in the development of our League, particularly for his leadership, management and growth of our on-ice officials.

‘Bodie’ demonstrated passion, leadership and professionalism and was respected by OHL Member Teams and the many officials that he mentored throughout the years.

The Ontario Hockey League offers our deepest condolences to Ken’s family, especially his wife Christa, sons Ken Jr. and Jeff and daughter Rae-Ann.

OHL Member Clubs will offer a moment of silence in memory of Mr. Bodendistel at home games this weekend.

Further details regarding visitation and funeral arrangements will be posted upon confirmation.

 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

No comments: