PENSACOLA, FL — The Pensacola community and hockey world are mourning the unexpected loss of Kelly Hultgren, a passionate hockey player and respected member of the local sports scene, who passed away suddenly. The news of Kelly’s passing has left family, friends, teammates, and fans in shock, as they grieve the loss of someone whose presence was as powerful off the ice as it was on.
Though the exact cause of death has not yet been publicly confirmed, Kelly’s sudden passing has sent waves of sorrow through the Gulf Coast and beyond. Known for his fierce competitiveness, leadership on the rink, and deep love for the game, Kelly was widely admired in the hockey community and held in high regard by all who knew him.
Kelly was more than an athlete—he was a mentor, a teammate, and a friend. He brought energy and heart to every game and practice, earning the respect of fellow players and coaches. His dedication to the sport and to the people around him made him a standout in every sense.
In Pensacola, Kelly was a familiar face at local rinks and sports gatherings. He was known not only for his athletic skill but also for his kindness, sense of humor, and willingness to help others. Whether guiding younger players or supporting friends through tough times, Kelly made a difference in the lives of many.
Tributes have begun pouring in across social media, where teammates and friends remember him as a “leader,” a “light in the locker room,” and “one of the good ones.” His absence will be deeply felt across the tight-knit hockey community, particularly by those who were lucky enough to share the ice—or a friendship—with him.
Funeral arrangements are currently pending, and the family has requested privacy as they navigate this heartbreaking loss. A celebration of life will be planned in the coming days, with details to be shared by loved ones.
As we mourn the tragic and sudden loss of Kelly Hultgren, we also honor the passion and purpose with which he lived. His memory will live on in every game played, every story shared, and every heart he touched.
May he rest in peace.