Mike Spellman covered the Blackhawks for the Daily Herald. He was loved by all who worked with him and against. He died unexpectedly last night at his home.
His Facebook timeline reveals a mix of “RIP” messages and “Happy Birthday” wishes. Today would have been his 51st birthday.
Just last year, Spellman assumed the Blackhawks beat after the death of longtime hockey writer Tim Sassone. A 23-year member of the Daily Herald’s sports department, Spellman was a graduate of St. Viator High School in Arlington Heights, where he played baseball and earned MVP honors as a standout catcher. He also attended Roosevelt University.
Crushed to learn of Mike Spellman's death. Just the best and funniest guy. Thoughts are with his family and the whole @dailyherald family.
— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) January 21, 2015
Just can't believe it. Mike Spellman made me laugh every time I saw him. First Tim and now Mike. So sad.
— Chris Kuc (@ChrisKuc) January 21, 2015
Thoughts & prayers are w/ Mike Spellman's family & friends, his Daily Herald family & the Blackhawks beat writers that knew and loved him
— Adam Rogowin (@AdamRogowin) January 21, 2015
Always looked forward to seeing Mike Spellman at Wrigley. Very sad. RIP. @dailyherald readers lost a good one
— Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) January 21, 2015
So sad and stunned at death of @dailyherald #Blackhawks beat writer Mike Spellman. Thoughts-prayers to his family and many friends
— Howard Sudberry (@HowardSudberry) January 21, 2015
The cause of death appeared to have been a heart attack, the Daily Herald reported. Here’s the full story.
