Local student, honorary Notre Dame hockey team member Rudy Chapman passes away
ELKHART COUNTY, Ind. -- Middlebury Community Schools announced Thursday morning that student and honorary Notre Dame hockey team member Rudy Chapman passed away after an eight-year long battle with cancer.
Chapman was diagnosed with bone cancer in 2018 at age 5 and had been going in and out of the hospital ever since.
In April 2024, the Notre Dame hockey team hosted a "Rally for Rudy" car wash benefiting the young fan. Chapman could be seen spending time with the team at various events.
Middlebury Community Schools' statement reads in part:
"Rudy was a light in our community. He showed us all what it means to live with faith, courage, and love. Even in the face of tremendous challenges, Rudy found the good. He smiled when others might have cried. He encouraged others when he was the one who needed support. He lived fully, with a spirit that reminded us to be present, to be kind, and to never take the gift of life for granted."
Notre Dame Hockey, Catalino Family Head Hockey Coach Brock Sheahan released the following statement:
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Rudy Chapman. Rudy was a beloved member of our program for many years, and his memory will continue to live on through Notre Dame hockey. His vibrant personality and infectious smile will be greatly missed around Compton Family Ice Arena.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his parents, Laura and Tony, his sister Lucy, and the entire Chapman family as they navigate this difficult time.”