By Western Hockey League

The WHL is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Mike Hasenfratz, former WHL Official and NHL Official.

Hasenfratz passed away recently at the age of 58.

A native of Regina, Sask., Hasenfratz officiated over 700 NHL games from 2000-01 to 2013-14. He missed two seasons in the middle of his career as he recovered from life-threatening heart surgery. He eventually returned to the NHL for four seasons.

Prior to embarking on his NHL career Hasenfratz worked as a WHL referee. In 1999-00, he was presented with the Allen Paradice Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the WHL’s Official of the Year.

Hasenfratz was also a two-time representative at the Memorial Cup for the WHL, including 1995 in Kamloops and 1998 in Spokane.

The WHL extends its sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mike Hasenfratz.