Brody Rose, a young hockey player from Petawawa, Ontario, has died after suffering injuries when he was struck by a vehicle while riding his bicycle Thursday night. His death has left family members, friends, teammates and the wider hockey community grieving a loss that has reached far beyond the rink.
Rose, who wore No. 23 while playing for the U18 Rep team in the Greater Petawawa Minor Hockey Association, died over the weekend from injuries suffered in the collision. News of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes across the Ottawa Valley, with hockey organizations, local businesses and community members remembering the young player.
For those who shared the ice with Brody, his death means losing more than a teammate. He was part of a hockey family that brought together players, coaches, parents and supporters from different age groups. His absence is now being felt throughout that community.
The Greater Petawawa Minor Hockey Association expressed its condolences to Brody’s family and friends, remembering him as a remarkable young man and an outstanding player. The association also acknowledged the pain his passing has caused among those who had the privilege of knowing him.
The loss also prompted changes to the local hockey schedule. The association rescheduled the U18 Rep game and the U18 B3 game, giving players and members of the community time to mourn. At other home games, players and spectators observed 23-second moments of silence in recognition of the jersey number Brody wore.
The tributes were not limited to his teammates. Minor hockey organizations from Eganville, Renfrew and Barry’s Bay also shared messages of support for Brody’s family and the Greater Petawawa Minor Hockey Association. At its home games Sunday, the Barry’s Bay Minor Hockey Association held a 23-second moment of silence in his memory.
The association shared a message noting that although the rink had fallen quiet, its love and support for Brody’s family and teammates remained strong. It was a simple gesture, but one that reflected how deeply his passing had affected people beyond his immediate team.
Brody was also remembered by Hyska’s Your Independent Grocer, where he worked. The store shared an emotional tribute describing how much its store family was hurting following his death. Those who knew him through the workplace remembered him as someone whose friendly greetings and warm personality made everyday interactions special
The store’s message spoke about the difference Brody made in people’s lives simply by being himself. It also extended condolences to his family and everyone mourning his loss, making clear that he would not be forgotten.
As the Petawawa community continues to grieve, the 23-second tributes and rescheduled games stand as reminders of the young player whose life ended far too soon. His family, friends, coworkers and teammates are now facing the difficult days ahead without someone who had become an important part of their lives.
For the hockey community, Brody Rose will remain part of the U18 Rep family. He will be remembered by the number 23, the friendships he built and the people who shared their time with him on and off the ice.
Forever No. 23. Rest in peace, Brody.
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