Former U.S. national team defenceman Bob Suter, who helped helm the legendary 1980 U.S. Olympic team to the stunning “Miracle On Ice” victory at the 1980 Olympics over the Soviet Union, has died of a heart attack at age 57.

Suter, the father of current NHL and U.S. team defenceman Ryan Suter, and brother of former NHLer and U.S. team member Gary Suter, also played for the U.S. at the 1981 World Championships, before retiring in 1982. Bob captured the IHLC during the Miracle On Ice win, the Americans’ 10th IHLC reign, en route to Olympic Gold with a win over Finland following the “Miracle On Ice.” Both Gary and Ryan have been IHLC champions as well representing the United States.

Our condolences go out to the Suter family, as well as the hockey community at large, reeling from the loss of the first member of the “Miracle” team.

Photo Credit: New York Daily News – IIHF – HHOF – IOC