Popular young Oilers fan succumbs to battle with cancer after touching the hearts of the hockey community
It is with a heavy heart that we announce that 6-year-old Ben Stelter has lost his battle with cancer. Stelter quickly rose to fame with his passion for the Edmonton Oilers, being widely recognized as the team's #1 fan, with the team making all of Stelter's dreams come true. His father, Mike, shared the unfortunate news of his passing after succumbing to his illness after more than a year-long battle with glioblastoma on Tuesday.
Stelter took his status as the team's #1 fan to the next level this past year when he got to skate with the team during a pre-game skate early in the season. The team, the organization and all of Oilers Nation quickly became Ben's #1 fan as well and the relationship was a constant one that both sides maintained throughout the year. Here are just a few clips and pics of Ben from this season.
During his time of being the Oilers' number one inspiration, Ben touched the hearts of the nation with his good spirit, his trademark giggle and his famed catch phrase, "Play La Bamba, baby!". His loss is felt by the entire hockey community and even though he may not know it, Ben transcended Oilers Nation and was beloved by fans in just about every hockey market.
Our deepest and most sincere condolences to the entire Stelter family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this unfathomable time.
