Michael Mantenuto

1981 - 2017

Michael Mantenuto

1981 - 2017

BORN

1981

DIED

2017

Michael Mantenuto Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Apr. 27, 2017.
Michael Mantenuto, a former actor and college hockey player who played Jack O'Callahan in the 2004 Disney film "Miracle," died Monday, April 24, 2017. He was 35.

The death was announced in a news release by Col. Guillaume "Will" Beaurpere, the group commander of the U.S. Army's 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne). Mantenuto joined the military after his acting career ended.

The release said Mantenuto was found dead by police in Des Moines, Washington.

"Those of you that knew Mike will remember him for his passionate love for his family and his commitment to the health of the force," the release said.

Click to get weekly celebrity death news delivered to your inbox.

Mantenuto, a former University of Maine hockey player, was cast in the role of the fun-loving O’Callahan in the film that starred Kurt Russell. "Miracle" tells the story of the 1980 U.S. Olympic men’s ice hockey team’s come-from-behind victory over the heavily favored Soviet Union, a game known as the Miracle on Ice. After beating the Russians, the U.S. team defeated Finland to win the gold medal.

His other movies included "Dirtbags" (2006) and "Surfer, Dude" (2008).

Mantenuto, who was born May 13, 1981, in Holliston, Massachusetts, is survived by his wife, the former Kati Vienneau; a daughter, Ava; a son, Leo; his father, Ed Mantenuto; his mother, Kerry Lee Barton; and three sisters, Katie Mantenuto, Meggan Mantenuto Hope, and Lauren Mantenuto.

Sign Michael Mantenuto's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

May 19, 2025

Linder posted to the memorial.

May 16, 2025

Sabina posted to the memorial.

July 10, 2024

Avery Kraft posted to the memorial.

227 Entries

Linder

May 19, 2025

Michael Manto ~ unbelievable your pain to leave so early ~ the movie is your legacy ~ people will remember your sacrifice

Sabina

May 16, 2025

Dear Mike, you was so attractive, beautiful man. RIP. So sad...

Avery Kraft

July 10, 2024

All Eagles Oscar! RIP Mikey
- AK

Chris Dasios

May 19, 2024

I am watching the movie right now. You were good in it. R.I.P.

Linda Marie

April 28, 2023

Michael it´s almost your birthday

Wish you could be with your kids and kati They need you.
Herzliche Gluckwunsche Linder

Patti

October 8, 2022

I wish you everything. Remember to tell your Mother how much you love her...Rest in peace as you settle in, the Eagle has landed. Vaya con Dios, te amo.

Karen Ratti

May 20, 2022

LOVE the Movie, MIRACLE, and Michael played a great part (Jack 'OC' O'Callahan). There is not nearly enough done for our Military Hero's who encounter and live with horror that the great majority of us never even dream about. The suffering is over. Rest in peace in the arms of God, Michael.

Marcelo Weimer

June 21, 2021

Rest easy Micheal. I may not know you personally, but I certainly loved your acting in Miracle. It actually is what got me into hockey, and eventually to get a signed card from who you portrayed yourself, Jack OC. Thanks man, for a part of me.

Debbie Moore

May 15, 2021

Rest in peace Michael. I really enjoyed watching Miracle .You were Awesome.

Rain Peyton

October 26, 2020

He died 2 days after my birthday I was so depressed, I really dont know him because i am 13 and i love him in his movie Miracle, in memory

May 12, 2020

God is a God of all Comfort and he will Comfort the family's..My heartfelt condolences to the family's..

Solitarieone

February 15, 2020

I hope you found peace, Mike.

Jim Delbou

December 2, 2019

What a beautiful man you became... I pray for ur family to find the strength, because it has to hurt everyday.... ❤

The Delbou Family

November 19, 2019

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

Craig Bendall

October 19, 2019

An inspiration, young talent lost.
God Bless

Edmond Saksak

July 16, 2019

I have never known him but through this great and inspiring movie "Miracle"
Michael, your legacy will live on...Thank you for sharing your life with us, and May God bless your Family. Thank you for your service!

Olivia Archambault

April 3, 2019

His name will always be remembered. What he did for many people will be remembered as well.

Art Skahl

January 16, 2019

He did an awesome job in Miracle, thankful and honor him for his service. To the family: so very sorry for your loss, Im praying for you all. God bless and keep all of you.

January 8, 2019

God is comforting Michaels soul. God bless his family.

Mike Whitworth

December 20, 2018

What a hero. He has love.

William A. Roesler

August 9, 2018

HE GAVE US SO MUCH TO CHEER ABOUT & BOUGHT THE CHARACTER TO LIFE. MAY HE REST IN PEACE. I WILL NOT TRY TO SAY "I KNOW HOW HE FELT," BUT WHATEVER DEMONS HE STRUGGLED WITH I CANNOT UNDERSTAND. I AM SURE GOD WILL KNOW THE JOY HE GAVE US......PEACE TO YOU MICHAEL....

Frank

June 17, 2018

OC's playing baby!!!! RIP

Salma Ali

April 16, 2018

R.I.P
I don't know why but there's something about Michael. I mean as soon as I watch the movie I was totally obsessed with Michael. Then I go online to see like how old he is and how he's doing and all that then I see that you died and that shocked me and it crushed me at the same time. Wishing prayers towards Michael.

R.I.P

January 11, 2018

My thoughts and prayers for his soul, and for the family.

Linderrrrr

December 17, 2017

There are just so many of us missing you Michael

I'm thinking you thought you could come right back...

Just ruined

Linda Marie

August 22, 2017

Michael

Michael so sad you cannot return

Jack O'Callahan

Liam Nease

July 28, 2017

You were a huge part of my childhood. R.i.p.

Kathy

June 4, 2017

I pray God eases the pain of your loss.

David JONES

May 26, 2017

Thank you for your friendship and encouragement in my darkest hour. I will remember our talks and walks and the trust you shared. Peace and love to your family always.

Rosina TorresChand

May 25, 2017

Didn't know you, but I know your struggle. God keep you Micheal and TY SIR FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTRY AND CITIZENS. SO SORRY YOU WERE HURTING NOW THERES NO MORE PAIN BABY GOODNIGHT

Suzi Waltos

May 23, 2017

I am a stranger to Mike, that is we've never met. However, I have a charming story that I've never publically shared and figure now is a good to time to tell it. I saw him once years ago, taking a craps lesson with a buddy of his at The Venetian in Las Vegas where I work. They were having a great time and didn't approach them. I kept walking, which I've always for some reason have regretted. The funny thing is the movie Miracle had just come out a short time before and a couple of the girls in the office were talking about it, being a perfect date movie (good for guys with hockey, championships, heart & soul. good for girls as it was eye candy for days). As I was saying earlier, I was walking through the table games section of the casino, on my way to my office when I saw them. They were both laughing with the Pit Boss as they were getting a lesson. Mike's smile was so bright, it light up the table. I kept walking with no interruption in my pace. However, I quickly called one of the girls in my office and said.."Dude, I think OC is in the dice pit". Well, all I can tell you is she was on the opposite side of the campus when I called, but was able to call me back from the craps pit in about 30 seconds (so she must have flew!) to confirmed it was him. We both laughed. It was pretty funny if you were there. So when the news of Mike's passing came out, her and I immediately reconnected and re-shared this story with each other. I'm in shock and my heart & thoughts goes out to his family. Mike, Thank you for your service and sending love & light to his family. Please let me know how I can help in any way.

First NameJ. Last NameReilly

May 12, 2017

Add your message here.Maythe White Light surround, bless and protect you all. Michael, rest in eternal peace.

Don Reycroft

May 7, 2017

Michael, rest in peace knowing you were loved by many. I have found memories on which to remember what a special person you were. May God be with you.

Jim Mooney

May 6, 2017

OC's playing baby.....thank you Michael for inspiring millions with your acting and real life heroism. Your smile and laugh was one in a billion that has always affected me. I am devastated and my hockey playing kids are as well.

Ildiko Barritt

May 6, 2017

Words cannot describe the sadness of losing such an amazing human from this world . All of us who were lucky enough to meet Michael saw his light and the kind spirit he possessed .
I had the pleasure of looking after Michael as part of our film family in Vancouver while filming Miracle .
He was quiet , classy and lovely . It was a pleasure to share the long days working with him .
I wish his family peace and strength in such a difficult time . He was and will always be a special person .

Debra Kedski

May 5, 2017

So sorry for your loss. God bless.
Deb and Steve Bartelloni-Kedski

Walter & Mary Toner

May 5, 2017

Ed & Katie, this is such a tragedy. We are so sorry for your loss. May Mike rest in piece.

Dan Esdale

May 5, 2017

My condolences to the Mantenuto family

Lisa Marie Frankland (Simard)

May 4, 2017

I am so incredibly sorry to hear this. Although I never knew him, I was Katie roommate at Hebron and our family has gone through a similar situation 8 months ago. My heart goes out to everyone this is affecting.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family during difulcult time.

Jennifer G.

May 4, 2017

Mike,
Although it's been years, I have wonderful memories of the time that we spent together. You were my buddy and had the ability to put a permanent smile on my face whenever I had the pleasure of spending time with you. I remember it like it was yesterday. You will always be a legend in many ways and are so, so loved.

Rest In Peace Bud.

Linda Hamilton Kashmanian

May 4, 2017

All our prayers and sincere thoughts are with you Kerry, Ed, Katie, Meagan and Lauren. I remember him as a young kid, stuffing bananas in his mouth and his Me'Ma saying "no,no, Mike". My dad getting such a kick out of him and was thrilled that he played hockey and was a great athletic. We love you all and hope Mike is at peace forever. Linda Hamilton Kashmanian and Family

Angelina Antenucci

May 3, 2017

Most known by the public for his role in Miracle, there was so much more to this man, I am sure. God bless this family and all who knew him personally. I keep you all in my thoughts

May 3, 2017

Sending my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Mantenuto. It is always tragic to hear of the loss of someone, but especially of someone young. Please find comfort in knowing the Most High promises to be a refuge during times of distress. Psalms 9:9

May 2, 2017

Rest In Peace Michael. I never met you but your story has really affected me and I just wish that there was something that I could have done to help you. My prayers are with your family in this hard time. Thank you for all that you did.

Patrick Ramunni

May 2, 2017

Coach, Leigh and I are so sorry for your loss. Call us if you need anything. We will see you Thursday.

Jack

May 2, 2017

Michael, you played a hero on ice, you were a hero in life. Thank you for your service, brave soldier. Now, your eternal journey begins. Godspeed.

Krista Tannery

May 2, 2017

Offering our sincere condolences and prayers at the loss of your loved one and member of our 1st Special Forces family. May Mike rest easy and God wrap his loving arms around him today and always.

Mrs. Lynch

May 1, 2017

My sincere condolences to the family. May the God who binds up the brokenhearted and comforts all who mourn, sustain your family during this difficult time - Isaiah 61:1, 2.

Eliza

May 1, 2017

RIP

Marijke Grashuis

May 1, 2017

i am from he netherlands.Isent all of you my love en best wishes.Duch a talented and beautiful person to chose this way of finding peace.He is in heaven now.

Patricia DeStefano

May 1, 2017

My deep condolences to the family of Micheal Mantenuto. May you find comfort in knowing that others share your sorrow. Take comfort in knowing that God keeps those who have fallen asleep in death in his memory because they are precious in his eyes. Please read these comforting words in your bible at. PSALMS 116:15. MY DEEPEST AND SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO YOUR FAMILIES AND FRIENDS.

May 1, 2017

Ed,
You may not remember me, you would sharpen my skates in your home . I worked with Bill Flanagan.I remember your son coming around watching you sharpen the skates. Words cannot express how I know you feel. Just know that there are many people who are holding your family and Michael and their thoughts and prayers.
Bill O'Neill

Joel

May 1, 2017

OC's playing, baby! Rest in peace, Mike.

May 1, 2017

My prayers are with you and your family, during this difficult time.

Kimberly Johnson

April 30, 2017

Kimberly Johnson

April 30, 2017

April 30, 2017

Thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of Michael, a man who inspired so many. One of my heroes. Love to his wife and children.

Lynn Garrett

April 30, 2017

Thank you for serving our country. God Bless!!!

Stephanie Byrne

April 30, 2017

Sincere sympathy goes to Michaels wife and his children also to his father and sisters. A life taken away too early.
Slan Agus tiochfaidh se ar Dhia

Phil T.

April 30, 2017

Rest In Peace. DOL. You will never be forgotten.

Ana Bay

April 30, 2017

I'm so sorry for your loss, my thoughts and prayers are with all who loved Michael. He gave millions of us joy with his performance in Miracle. He will be missed.

J

April 30, 2017

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Logan McGrath

April 30, 2017

My condolences to the Mantenuto family. I am so sorry for your loss. Mike was Logan's favorite coach. He taught him so much in that one we were in Washington. He brags to all his teammates here in Michigan what a awesome coach he was. he will be truly missed.

ANN MARIE MCCARTHY

April 29, 2017

RIP, in memory of your service to the country, Ann McCarthy, former US Army Nurse Corps, Reserves

Jerry Elliott

April 29, 2017

RIP Brother. Gods Speed!

Nancy S

April 29, 2017

Love. Respect. Understanding. From another service member in recovery, I wish you God's comfort and eventual serenity...

Jim,Arlene,elizabeth Martineau

April 29, 2017

We lost our Son & brother Scott recently. He was Holliston High hockey teamanager and Mikey was 7 & skating rings around everyone including Ed
Our prayers are with you all!

C O

April 29, 2017

Hockey in heaven...OC is playing!!!!! Touched so many with that performance, as in his life serving his country, coaching youth hockey, loving friends and family...he made a difference for so many. May the Lord Bless and Keep his family, friends and all who knew him- today and always!!!!!

Kathy

April 29, 2017

Our son passed away very young too, I know what you must be going through. When I am overcome with grief at my loss I remember the beautiful words at Psalm 61:2....."from the ends of the earth I will cry out to you when my heart is in despair. Lead me on to a rock that is higher than I am". I will remember Michael's family in my prayers.

Don

April 29, 2017

My condolences to your family. Michael was a young man with so much ahead of him. It saddens our hearts to hear of his passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers.~Psalms 23

April 29, 2017

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

April 29, 2017

My thoughts, prayers, and sincerest condolences are with the friends and family of Michael Mantenuto.

Evans family

April 29, 2017

Our sincere condolences to the family.
May you draw comfort from God during this difficult time, as he help you to cope with the loss of a wonderful person. Within your heart and memory your love one will always be close by.

Nick G.

April 29, 2017

He was amazing, definitely made me wanna be a better hockey player. But he wasn't just a great actor, he was a great person. This country should be honored that someone as awesome as himself served for them.
R.I.P. Michael

Juan Antonio Miguez Martín

April 29, 2017

Rest in peace! My condolences to his family, from Sevilla /Spain

April 28, 2017

To the Family and Friends of Michael....I am so very sorry for you to read about his passing. My heartfelt condolences to all who knew this young man.

Carlotta

April 28, 2017

May the God of all peace bring comfort to the Mantenuto family and friends at this difficult time.

John Andersen

April 28, 2017

We are so sorry to hear this sad news. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ed and the entire Mantenuto family. Laurie and John Andersen

April 28, 2017

Thanks For Your Service.
Rest In Peace.

April 28, 2017

MAY THE GOD OF ALL COMFORT CONSOLE
YOUR FAMILY AT ALL TIMES.
ONE DAY AT A TIME SWEET JESUS.

Steven Donahue

April 28, 2017

God in heaven, take Michael into your grace as he rests in peace. Take care of his family, allow them to heal and be at peace.
Amen.

RIP Michael.

April 28, 2017

Mike was friend from Holliston High and a fellow serviceman. This news hurt me to my core to hear. Prayers for the Mantenuto family. Rest Easy my friend.

April 28, 2017

So sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to the family. May the God of all comfort be with the family during this difficult time.

Paddy Relihan

April 28, 2017

Had the pleasure of playing hockey with Mikey. Words can't describe how incredible of guy/hockey player he was. His personality could literally light up a room. I will always remember the good times while playing on his hockey team in Quebec City. My deepest condolences go to his family. RIP old friend!

Robert Coughlin

April 28, 2017

Great man, went to basic training, airborne, and selection with him. It was an absolute pleasure to know Mantenuto. He helped to motivate me and was always out to help the team. We will all miss you. RLTW!!!

April 28, 2017

So sorry for the loss of Mr. Mantenuto; May the God of comfort grant the family peace at this sad time. (Acts 17:24,25)

Chanell

April 28, 2017

I am truly sorry for the loss of your dear Michael. I know he will be missed dearly by all who loved and knew him well. Please continue to rely upon the God of all comfort during this time and he will help you.

Linda Brown

April 28, 2017

So sorry michael u had to go so soon.

April 28, 2017

My heartfelt sympathy goes out to your friends and family. I am sorry for your loss. May you find comfort that is found at Isaiah 65:17 when death will be a thing of the past. Allow God to strengthen you in this difficult time.

MZ

Cyndi Baca

April 28, 2017

Prayers to the family for strength and comfort.

Lisa Somody

April 28, 2017

I did not know Michael personally but I feel the need to send my wishes since he will forever be part of our family with my weekly watching of Miricle. May God bless all of you during this time and may OC be at peace

Susan McCaskill

April 28, 2017

Thank you for your service, from a grateful American. Rest in Peace

April 28, 2017

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

PW and GW

April 28, 2017

Please accept our condolences as you face the challenge of grief, may God give you strength and peace. Philippians 4:6,7.

Megan Pendson

April 28, 2017

My condolences to Michael's wife, daughter Ava and son Leo. Loss of such an important member of the family is difficult. Thankfully God the hearer of prayer is ready to help your family cope. In Philippians 4:6,7 God promises to grant peace and relief to those who are hurting. May God be your outlet during this time.

April 28, 2017

Sorry to hear about your sad loss, may you find peace, and courage in our prayers. all thinking of you.

Showing 1 - 100 of 227 results

Make a Donation
in Michael Mantenuto's name

How to support Michael's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Michael Mantenuto's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sponsored

Sign Michael Mantenuto's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?

May 19, 2025

Linder posted to the memorial.

May 16, 2025

Sabina posted to the memorial.

July 10, 2024

Avery Kraft posted to the memorial.