The Maple Grove and St. Michael-Albertville (STMA), Minnesota, communities are grieving the unexpected loss of Paul Joelson, longtime head coach of the STMA Boys Varsity Hockey team, who passed away on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the age of 51. His sudden death has left his family, friends, players, fellow coaches, and the broader Minnesota hockey community mourning the loss of a man whose influence extended far beyond the ice.
For many years, Joelson served as the leader of the STMA Boys Varsity Hockey program, earning widespread respect for his dedication to developing not only talented athletes but also responsible, confident, and compassionate young men. His coaching philosophy emphasized character, teamwork, accountability, and perseverance, values that resonated with generations of players and their families.
Beyond his work with the varsity team, Paul devoted countless hours to the STMA Youth Hockey Association, helping introduce young athletes to the sport while mentoring them throughout their development. Whether coaching beginners or preparing varsity players for the next level, he approached every role with enthusiasm, patience, and an unwavering commitment to helping others succeed.
Following news of his passing, the STMA Youth Hockey Association shared a heartfelt tribute, remembering Joelson as a coach and hockey father whose dedication left an immeasurable impact on the community.
“Our hockey family is heartbroken. It is with deep sadness that we share the unexpected passing of hockey dad and coach, Paul Joelson. Paul dedicated countless hours to our hockey community, leaving a lasting impact on so many players and families.”
While his accomplishments behind the bench earned admiration throughout Minnesota’s hockey circles, those closest to Paul say his greatest source of pride was his family. He was a devoted husband and loving father who balanced the demands of coaching with an unwavering commitment to supporting and celebrating his wife and children.
Friends remember him as approachable, encouraging, and dependable—a man who always found time to offer advice, lend a helping hand, or celebrate the achievements of those around him. His kindness, humility, and genuine concern for others made him not only a respected coach but also a trusted mentor and cherished friend.
In the wake of his passing, the STMA and Maple Grove communities have rallied around the Joelson family. Parents, former players, fellow coaches, neighbors, and friends have shared heartfelt memories and organized support efforts, including a Meal Train and other community initiatives, demonstrating the profound impact Paul had on so many lives.
Tributes continue to highlight the countless athletes he inspired, the friendships he built, and the lasting lessons he taught both on and off the rink. For many, Coach Joelson’s legacy will be measured not only by victories on the scoreboard but by the confidence, discipline, and integrity he instilled in those he coached.
Paul is survived by his beloved wife and children, along with his extended family, close friends, fellow coaches, former players, and the many families whose lives he enriched through his years of service to Minnesota hockey.
Funeral and celebration of life arrangements are being finalized and will be announced by the Joelson family and the STMA School District when details become available.
Paul Joelson will be remembered as an exceptional coach, devoted family man, respected mentor, and pillar of the Minnesota hockey community. His legacy of leadership, compassion, and dedication will continue to inspire generations of players whose lives he helped shape. May his memory forever remain a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
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