Updated: August 14, 2026, Sources: Colorado Eagles organization
Les Borsheim, a beloved former defenseman, longtime Colorado Eagles broadcaster, and enduring symbol of resilience, died on August 11, 2026, at the age of 47. Known affectionately as “Borshy” or “Borsh,” he left a legacy that extended far beyond hockey—touching teammates, fans, youth players, and communities across Colorado and his native Saskatchewan.
The announcement of Borsheim’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from throughout the hockey world, reflecting not only admiration for his accomplishments on the ice, but also deep gratitude for the strength, optimism, and kindness that defined his life after a devastating injury changed its course forever.
For the Colorado Eagles organization and generations of supporters, Les Borsheim was more than a former player or broadcaster. He was a teammate, mentor, storyteller, and an enduring ambassador for the game he loved.
From Saskatchewan Farm Life to the Hockey Rink
Les Borsheim was born on April 27, 1979, in Watrous, Saskatchewan, Canada, and grew up on a family farm approximately 30 kilometres outside the community.
Raised amid the values of hard work, perseverance, and community, Borsheim developed his passion for hockey through local minor programs before advancing to the Western Hockey League, one of Canada’s premier junior hockey systems.
From 1996 to 2000, he played four seasons with the Brandon Wheat Kings, where he earned a reputation as a fearless, dependable defenseman and a respected teammate. Those who knew him during his junior years remembered a player who combined toughness with humor and loyalty—qualities that would remain hallmarks of his character throughout his life.
The Brandon Wheat Kings later described him as a competitor who brought determination to the ice and warmth to every locker room he entered.
Professional Hockey Career and Championship Success
Following his junior career and a brief period at the University of Calgary, Borsheim pursued professional hockey, appearing in several North American leagues.
His professional journey included time with the:
- Oklahoma City Blazers (Central Hockey League)
- Philadelphia Phantoms (American Hockey League)
- Quad City Mallards (United Hockey League)
- Colorado Eagles (Central Hockey League)
It was with the Colorado Eagles, however, that Borsheim made his deepest and most lasting impact.
Joining the club in 2005, the 6-foot-2, right-shooting defenseman quickly became a fan favorite for his physical style, competitive spirit, and willingness to do whatever the team required. Over three seasons with the Eagles, he combined rugged defensive play with offensive contributions and became a key part of the organization’s identity during its formative years.
One of the defining moments of his playing career came in 2007 when he helped the Colorado Eagles capture the Central Hockey League Ray Miron President’s Cup championship, cementing his place in franchise history.
A Life-Changing Accident and Extraordinary Resilience
In June 2008, Borsheim suffered catastrophic injuries in a motorcycle accident in rural Weld County, Colorado.
The accident resulted in fractures to his C4 and C5 vertebrae and left him paralyzed. He also experienced brain trauma and faced a lengthy period of hospitalization, intensive care, and rehabilitation, including treatment at the nationally respected Craig Hospital.
For many, such an event might have marked the end of public life.
For Borsheim, it became the beginning of a new chapter.
Supported by family, friends, teammates, and the Northern Colorado community, he transformed adversity into a mission of encouragement and service.
Through Team Borsheim, he connected with students, youth athletes, and community groups, sharing a message rooted in perseverance, gratitude, and resilience. He visited schools, encouraged young players, and continued to contribute to local hockey as an assistant coach.
Annual charity golf tournaments and community fundraising efforts supported his ongoing care while strengthening bonds among those inspired by his journey.
Those who knew Borsheim often spoke of his ability to focus not on limitations, but on possibilities. He consistently approached life with humor, determination, and an appreciation for each day.
The Voice of the Colorado Eagles
Borsheim’s connection to the Eagles did not end when his playing career did.
Beginning in 2011, he joined the club’s radio broadcast team as color analyst alongside longtime play-by-play broadcaster Kevin McGlue.
Over 15 seasons, Borsheim became one of the most recognizable voices in Colorado Eagles hockey, providing thoughtful analysis, memorable stories, and insights shaped by firsthand experience as a player.
He remained behind the microphone through significant moments in franchise history, including the Eagles’ back-to-back ECHL Kelly Cup championships in 2017 and 2018 and the club’s transition into the American Hockey League.
Listeners valued not only his hockey knowledge, but also the warmth, humor, and authenticity he brought to every broadcast.
McGlue later described his broadcasting partnership with Borsheim as a blessing, recalling his constant smile, his love for hockey, and his ability to brighten the lives of those around him.
Tributes Across the Hockey Community
The response to Borsheim’s passing reflected the breadth of his influence.
Colorado Eagles President Ryan Bach said:
“We have lost a great teammate, broadcaster and friend. While his passion and toughness will always be the hallmark of his time on the ice, his greatest legacy will be that of a man who exemplified kindness, friendship and inspiration.”
The Brandon Wheat Kings remembered him as a hardworking competitor and an outstanding person away from the rink.
Friends, former teammates, broadcasters, coaches, and fans shared stories that repeated the same themes:
- Courage in adversity
- Kindness toward others
- Love of community
- Dedication to hockey
- A remarkable ability to inspire
Longtime friend Martin Richardson reflected on Borsheim’s unforgettable smile and enduring friendships, illustrating how moments of connection often become the memories people treasure most.
A Legacy That Reaches Beyond Hockey
Statistics and championships tell only part of Les Borsheim’s story.
His greatest contribution may have been demonstrating that strength is measured not solely by physical ability, but by character, resilience, and the ability to uplift others.
He remained a visible and valued member of the Northern Colorado hockey community long after his playing career ended, serving as a role model for young athletes and a source of encouragement for countless individuals facing challenges of their own.
Borsheim leaves behind his mother, Margie, extended family, former teammates, friends, and generations of hockey fans who will remember both the player he was and the person he became.
No official cause of death has been publicly released as of publication.
Remembering Les Borsheim
Les Borsheim’s life was defined by determination, loyalty, humor, and an unwavering commitment to others.
He was a champion on the ice, a trusted voice in the broadcast booth, a mentor to young players, and an example of resilience for an entire community.
His legacy endures in hockey arenas, classrooms, radio broadcasts, friendships, and memories across Saskatchewan and Colorado.
For those who knew him, and for many who only heard his story, Les Borsheim remains a reminder that true greatness is measured not only by achievement, but by the lives one touches.
Rest in peace, Borshy. Your voice, spirit, and example will continue to echo throughout the hockey world for years to come.