The Griffins and the Grand Rapids hockey community are mourning the loss of our dear friend, Norm Kolenda, who passed away on Monday at the age of 83. This humble and quiet man leaves an enormous impact and legacy over a lifetime dedicated to the sport of hockey, particularly at the youth and high school levels.

From shoveling ice for the Rockets as a youngster to serving as timekeeper first for the Blades and Owls and then during the Griffins’ first 22 seasons, he was involved with every pro hockey team in Grand Rapids. Norm helped found GRAHA back in 1972, served as the first commissioner of the Grand Rapids Area High School Hockey League when it was founded in 1973, coached hundreds of kids including our very own Mike Knuble, then in his later years devoted countless volunteer hours sharpening skates for the Griffins Youth Foundation.

Norm Kolenda was truly Grand Rapids’ “Mr. Hockey” and will be greatly missed.

Norm's obituary

Make a donation to the Griffins Youth Foundation in Norm's name.

Griffiti Magazine profile (Jan. 2013)