Oilers superfan Ben Stelter dies
Ben Stelter has died. His father made the announcement on social media on Wednesday.
Ben, who suffered from glioblastoma, was an Oilers superfan who won the hearts of Edmonton fans everywhere during the playoffs.
The team donated proceeds from 50/50 ticket sales from the first round of playoffs to Kids with Cancer Society in his honour, and he was even awarded his own trading card by Connor McDavid.
"Today our heart aches for Bens’ family. He was a very special boy who truly defined the word hero. We will never forget his sweet smile, radiant personality proudly cheering on his beloved Oilers, with Mickey Mouse always by his side," said Val Figliuzzi of the Kids with Cancer Society in a written statement.
The Oilers reacted to the news of Ben's death on Wednesday:
St. Albert Public Schools has lowered flags at all their schools, including at Ronald Harvey Elementary, where he was a student.
"Ben was a Kindergarten student at Ronald Harvey Elementary School and a leader in the greater community as we all cheered on the Oilers during their recent playoff run. He touched so many lives and showed us all how to be brave and strong in the most difficult times. Our thoughts are with Ben's family, loved ones, and the Ronald Harvey school community," a statement from the board reads.
Ben was six years old.
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