Heartbreaking News as Beloved Defenseman and Two-Time National Champion Sadly Passes Away

Ward played at DU between 1966 and 1969 and helped guide the Pioneers to back-to-back National Championships. Denver defeated North Dakota 4-0 in 1968 and Cornell 4-3 in 1969.

The Calgary native played 84 games, posting 12 goals and 34 assists for 46 points during his career. After college, Ward pursued his love of the outdoors and agriculture.

A skilled cattleman himself, he was also a serious sportsman, by hunting, fishing, and golfing across North America. His golfing accomplishments ranged from several course records to some holes-in-one.

Born Jan. 25, 1947, Randy is survived by his spouse Marilyn; children Jeff and Andrew (Allison); grandchildren Kalen, Keira, Declan, and Liam; and larger family.

A memorial service will be held Monday, May 26, at 2 p.m. MT at Eden Brook Funeral Home in Calgary, Alberta.

Head coach David Carle signed a multi-year contract extension

In further DU hockey news, highly-touted head coach David Carle signed a multi-year contract extension.

In his seven seasons as the Pioneers' head coach, Carle has posted a 179-74-17 record, compiling a .694 winning percentage, the highest mark in program history.

He has taken the team to National Championships in 2022 and 2024 and four Frozen Four appearances, tying legendary coach Murray Armstrong's record of four semifinal appearances in a six-year span.

It's very bittersweet, as we congratulate Carle on this extension, but also send our deepest condolences to all of Randy's family and friends during this incredibly tough time. May he rest in peace.