Massachusetts Hockey is extremely sad to share the news that Bernard (Bernie) Michals, 85, passed away peacefully on March, 23, 2023.

Bernie was a long time fixture in youth hockey in Massachusetts, forming Massachusetts Hockey into what it is today. He is one of the founders in establishing the then Amateur Hockey Association Commonwealth of Massachusetts and serving the role of first vice president. He has left a lasting impact as a coach and hockey administrator. One of his many accomplishments includes leading the charge to implement and certify the wearing of masks at all levels of youth hockey. Michals was one of the leaders in running previous USA Hockey National Tournaments and Camps. He was one of the founders for Newton Youth Hockey, Middlesex Youth Hockey League, Bridgton Academy Youth Hockey, Boston Junior Braves and the New England Junior Whaler. While leading the charge, he was a coach for University of Southern Maine and Bridgton Academy. His playing career included playing for the Schenectady Generals (1956-1957) and the Lake Placid Roamers (1958-1959).

Please see information from his obituary below.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bernie’s memory may be made to Neuro Challenge Foundation for Parkinson’s of Sarasota (https://www.neurochallenge.org/about/sarasota-parkinsons-donations/), and Tidewell Foundation (https://tidewellfoundation.org/donate/).