The Burlington, Ontario, community is grieving the heartbreaking loss of 22-year-old Benjamin Denys Felicetti, a cherished hometown hockey player whose life touched teammates, coaches, and countless friends. Ben, the son of former Italian professional hockey player Dino Felicetti, passed away on November 25, 2025, just one day after he had been reported missing. His death has been confirmed as suicide.
Ben’s passing has left a profound ache in the hearts of many. Known for his warmth, dedication, and generosity, he was a young man who carried both determination and kindness with equal strength. His impact on the ice—and even more so, off of it—will be remembered forever by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
What Happened to a Son, a Teammate, a Friend
Born on April 3, 2003, in Burlington, Ben grew up surrounded by family, hockey, and community. With a deep love for the sport passed down from his father, Dino—who played for the Fassa Falcons, Milano Vipers, and the Italian national team—Ben embraced the game with heart and passion.
He played locally in Burlington before continuing his hockey journey with the Niagara Falls Canucks in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL). Teammates describe him as loyal, hardworking, and uplifting—someone who made practices lighter, games more spirited, and friendships stronger.
Those who knew Ben remember a young man who always found ways to support the people around him, whether through a word of encouragement, a shared laugh, or simply being present when someone needed him. GoFundMe
An Entire Community in Mourning
News of Ben’s death has sent waves of sorrow through Burlington and beyond. Tributes from former teammates, coaches, and friends reflect a common thread: Ben was not only talented but also deeply loved. 
The GOJHL, Burlington hockey organizations, and families within the sport have come together to honor him, emphasizing both his athletic contribution and the generosity of his spirit. His loss is felt not only as the passing of a gifted player, but as the silence of a vibrant, compassionate young man whose future held so much promise.
A Family Facing the Unimaginable
Ben is survived by his loving family—his parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended relatives—who are navigating an immeasurable grief. His family has created a GoFundMe to help with arrangements as they move through this painful and unexpected tragedy.
The Felicetti family has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community, noting that Ben’s life was enriched by the friendships and teams that surrounded him.
Honoring Ben’s Legacy
Ben’s life was filled with moments of joy, teamwork, and connection. His smile, his dedication, and his ability to lift others—whether on the ice or in everyday life—are memories that continue to bring comfort to those reflecting on his legacy.
As the community mourns, many are also calling for continued awareness and compassion surrounding mental health, especially among young athletes who often feel pressure to carry more than they can openly express.
If You or Someone You Know Needs Support
In moments like these, it is important to remember that help is always available.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to local mental health services or a crisis hotline immediately.
A Final Goodbye
Ben Felicetti was a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, teammate, and friend. His life, though far too short, was filled with love, effort, laughter, and dreams. He will be remembered not only for his talent on the ice, but for the kindness and sincerity he carried with him everywhere he went.
May he rest in peace, and may his loved ones find strength in the memories he leaves behind.
On November 25, 2025 at 2:38pm, our world changed forever.
Benjamin Denys Felicetti — a son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, friend, and cherished part of our family — left us far too soon.
Benjamin was fierce and stubborn in all the best ways. When he loved, he loved with his whole heart. He adored his parents, Kerri and Dino, and his brother Lucas. He loved his entire family deeply, and we will forever cherish the tremendous gift of loving him and being loved by him.
Sweet Benjamin, we hope you are watching over all of us. We hope you somehow know just how special you are and how deeply you are missed. Your bright presence touched every life around you, and we will carry you with us always as we learn to navigate a world without you.