In Loving Memory of Coach Barrett Misiwich (Saskatoon, Saskatchewan)
It is with heavy hearts and profound sorrow that we announce the sudden and heartbreaking passing of Barrett Misiwich, the beloved Head Coach of the 2016 Jr. Blues, on July 1, 2025. A pillar of strength, compassion, and leadership within the hockey community of Martensville and greater Saskatoon, Barrett’s untimely departure has left an immeasurable void in the lives of his players, family, friends, and all those who had the privilege to know him.
A Legacy Beyond the Ice
Barrett Misiwich wasn’t just a coach—he was a guiding light, a mentor, a father figure to many, and a tireless supporter of youth development both on and off the ice. Through his leadership of the Jr. Blues and countless other community efforts, Barrett instilled confidence, discipline, sportsmanship, and passion in the hearts of young athletes across Saskatchewan.
He led with integrity, patience, and an infectious enthusiasm for the game of hockey—but more than that, he led with love. He treated every player not just as an athlete, but as a human being with limitless potential. He celebrated their victories, helped them learn from defeat, and made it his mission to uplift every individual who crossed his path.
Barrett’s coaching wasn’t just about developing players—it was about building people. He fostered a culture of trust, respect, and teamwork, where each child felt valued and capable. His gift was in making others believe in themselves. And for that, he was cherished beyond words.
More Than a Coach — A Father, Husband, Friend
Outside the rink, Barrett was a devoted husband to Erin and a loving father to their three sons, ages 13, 10, and 9. He was their biggest cheerleader, their bedtime storyteller, their homework helper, and their rock. Whether he was lacing up skates before practice or cheering from the bleachers, Barrett was always present, always giving, always full of love.
The Misiwich family’s world was shattered on July 1st. In the blink of an eye, Erin lost her soulmate, and three young boys lost the man who was their hero. The heartbreak is profound and deeply personal. But what remains is a community united in grief, solidarity, and support—a reflection of how Barrett lived and led.
A Tribute from the Heart
One tribute, written by a fellow coach and friend, captures the spirit of Barrett Misiwich beautifully:
“Two years ago, Barrett brought the Blues family to life. He built more than a team—he built a brotherhood. He was an incredible coach, mentor, and friend who led our boys to so many victories, both on and off the ice. Barrett poured his heart into this team, teaching the game he loved and shaping these young players into strong athletes and even stronger people. His belief in each of them never wavered. We are devastated by this loss, but we will carry his spirit with us in every shift, every game, and every cheer. Rest easy, Coach. You’ll always be with us behind the bench.”
Supporting the Misiwich Family – GoFundMe
In the wake of this devastating loss, a GoFundMe page has been set up to support Erin and the boys as they face the future without their beloved husband and father. The fund will help provide for the family’s immediate and long-term needs—from educational expenses and daily living costs to continued participation in the activities and routines that Barrett nurtured with so much care.
Your donation, no matter the size, is more than financial support—it’s a symbol of the community Barrett helped build and the lives he shaped. It’s a way for us to show up for his family the way he always showed up for ours.
You can find the GoFundMe link on our website, and we encourage everyone who knew Barrett—or was moved by his story—to contribute and share the campaign with others. Together, we can surround Erin and her boys with the same strength and compassion that Barrett gave so freely to others.
Final Words
Coach Barrett Misiwich’s legacy will live on—in every young athlete who learned to skate with confidence, in every teammate who discovered the value of camaraderie, and in every heart that was touched by his unwavering belief in others. His life was a lesson in empathy, resilience, and purpose.
Though his time with us was far too short, the impact he made will be felt for generations to come.
Rest in peace, Coach Misiwich.
You led with love, taught with grace, and lived with purpose.
You will never be forgotten.