Sunday evening’s memorial was organized by two fans, Katie Haag and Shelby Leske. What started out as a plan of “just show up” on Facebook, became a quasi-organized event. While the tragedy was definitely fresh for them, Boogaard’s parents, two brothers, sister and his half-brother were in attendance. Their strength and love of Derek spoke loud and clear when they spoke to the gathered fans. When Boogaard’s brother Aaron spoke, he broke down and couldn’t finish. Considering that Aaron found his much loved brother, one shouldn’t be surprised. Joining the Boogaard family was the Wild training staff, Wild General Manager, Chuck Fletcher, and former teammates Brent Burns, Nick Schultz, Wes Walx, Stephane Veilleux, Andrew Brunette, and Nicklas Backstrom. The Wild organization approached long-time fan, Mary Letourneau, just minutes prior to the memorial to speak on behalf of the fans. Having met Mary on a couple of occasions, the Wild couldn’t have picked a better person. The Wild projected pictures of Boogaard througout Sunday’s memorial. I only wish I lived closer to St. Paul that I could have been there myself and been one of the over 300 fans in attendance to say my farewells.
I think the words of Derek’s brother, Ryan says all you will ever need to know about his brother:
Derek’s legacy will live with us every day. And for any of you that knows him or who have met him, no matter how briefly, we know that you too will be touched by the light that was Derek. While this light was extinguished too early, it will continue to burn strong for all of us that were privileged enough to know him and love him.
Rest in peace Boogeyman. You will be missed both on and off the ice. You will stand as a role model to many how hard can make your dreams come true. Hopefully your unassuming manner will inspire many to pick up your charitable work where you left off.
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