Founder of Mahwah High School Hockey Dies
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
MAHWAH, NJ — The Mahwah community is mourning the loss of a local titan. Donald Minassian, a devoted coach, attorney, and the visionary founder of the Mahwah High School ice hockey program, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 71.
A resident of Mahwah for 37 years, Minassian was more than just a sports fan; he was the architect of athletic opportunities that have shaped the lives of thousands of North Jersey students.
A Vision for Mahwah Sports
Born in Ridgewood and raised in Saddle Brook, Don Minassian brought his passion for competition and community to Mahwah nearly four decades ago. His impact on the local sports landscape is immeasurable:
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Ice Hockey Pioneer: He founded the Mahwah Ice Hockey Association and was the primary force behind bringing the sport to Mahwah High School. Even after the program was established, he remained a dedicated member of the association’s board.
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Versatile Coach: His leadership extended beyond the rink, as he spent years coaching youth roller hockey and baseball, mentoring young athletes on the values of teamwork and sportsmanship.
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Champion for Inclusion: Beyond the scoreboard, Minassian served as a commissioner for Mahwah’s Access for All program, ensuring that children with special needs had the support and resources to thrive in the community.
“A Life Well-Lived”: Tributes Pour In
The news of Minassian’s passing has triggered a wave of tributes from local leaders and former players.
Councilwoman Michelle Crowe Paz shared a touching tribute on social media, highlighting his selfless nature:
“Don was a founding member of the Access For All-Mahwah commission and selflessly shared his time, expertise, love, and passion… Don’s legacy will continue to inspire us.”
Friends and neighbors remember him as a man who balanced a successful legal career with an unwavering commitment to his wife and children, always finding time to improve the town he called home.
How to Honor Don Minassian’s Memory
In keeping with his lifelong dedication to children and research, the family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Hope for Children’s Research Foundation.
This Bergen County-based charity focuses on supporting medical breakthroughs for pediatric care.
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Online Donations: www.hopeforchildrenresearch.org
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Mail-in Donations: 700D Lake St., Ramsey, NJ 07446
Don Minassian: A Lifetime of Service
| Role | Impact |
| Founder | Mahwah Ice Hockey Association & HS Program |
| Commissioner | Access for All – Mahwah (Special Needs Support) |
| Coach | Ice Hockey, Roller Hockey, Baseball |
| Professional | Respected North Jersey Attorney |
| Family | Mahwah resident for 37 years |
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