FORT WAYNE, Ind. — The Fort Wayne hockey community is heartbroken following the tragic passing of Xander Wittbrod-Rouse, a beloved young player whose passion for the game and radiant personality left a lasting mark on everyone he met.
The Fort Wayne Amateur Hockey Association (FWAHA) confirmed the devastating news, sharing that Xander, a dedicated member of the Carmel Ice Hounds, passed away unexpectedly. His loss has sent waves of grief throughout the local and regional hockey community, leaving teammates, coaches, and families mourning the loss of not just a talented athlete, but an exceptional young person.
Hockey, for many, is more than a sport—it is a family. And Xander embodied the very best of that spirit. Known for his tireless energy, sportsmanship, and love for the game, he approached every practice and every shift on the ice with heart and determination. Off the rink, Xander was just as impactful—kind, humble, and always willing to help a friend in need. His laughter and positivity were infectious, creating bonds that extended far beyond the boards.
“Xander was the kind of teammate every player hopes to have,” said one coach. “He lifted others up, worked hard, and played with a joy that reminded us all why we love this game.”
In the wake of this unimaginable loss, the FWAHA and the Carmel Ice Hounds organizations have come together to offer support to Xander’s family, teammates, and friends. Vigils and gatherings are being planned to honor his memory, with the hockey community standing united in both sorrow and solidarity.
“Our hearts are broken,” the FWAHA said in a statement. “We have lost not only a gifted young player but a remarkable person whose kindness and spirit touched us all. We will carry his memory with us—on the ice and in our hearts—forever.”
As those who loved him mourn, many are finding comfort in remembering Xander’s passion, his laughter, and the light he brought to every rink he stepped into. His legacy will live on in the friendships he built, the lessons he taught through his example, and the countless lives he brightened.
Rest in peace, Xander Wittbrod-Rouse.
Your skates may be still, but your spirit will forever glide across the ice, in every game played and in every heart you touched.