The hockey world is mourning the sudden loss of Sean Romeo, the former Ohio State netminder who made his mark between the pipes for the Buckeyes. He was 31 years old.
Romeo suffered a stroke on October 15 and passed away this past Monday due to complications from the event. His mother shared that after the initial stroke, his condition worsened, and he suffered a second stroke on the other side of his brain a week later.
Ohio State paid tribute on social media, writing, "Keeping Sean Romeo and his family and friends in our thoughts and prayers ❤️ #SeanSavesLives." The program also announced that Romeo will be an organ donor, giving his heart, lungs, liver, and kidneys to those in need.
Romeo transferred from Maine to Ohio State in 2016 and quickly established himself as one of the program's all-time greats in goal. Over 54 games, he logged 3,189 minutes, won 30 games, allowed 118 goals, and recorded five shutouts. His .919 save percentage and 2.22 goals-against average rank fourth in Buckeyes history.
The 2017-18 season was a historic one for Ohio State, and Romeo was a key part of it. That year, the Buckeyes reached the Frozen Four for just the second time in school history, and Romeo earned Second Team All-Big Ten honors.
The hockey community has rallied around Romeo's memory. The ECHL released a statement: "The ECHL mourns the passing of former goaltender Sean Romeo at age 31. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Sean's family, friends, and former teammates during this time."
The Cincinnati Cyclones, where Romeo also played, said, "We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of former Cyclones goalie Sean Romeo, holding his friends and family in our thoughts." The Florida Everblades added, "We join the hockey community in mourning the loss of Sean Romeo and David Moulton. The Everblades extend our heartfelt condolences to their families, friends and loved ones."
Romeo's impact went beyond the ice, and his decision to donate organs is a final act of generosity that will save lives. As the tributes pour in, his legacy as a competitor and a kind soul will not be forgotten.
For more on the Buckeyes' recent hockey fortunes, check out this look at Ohio State's rise in the rankings.
