The Hampton Roads Whalers organization send our condolences to the family of retired Lieutenant  Colonel Jay Stefaney, his wife Dottie, daughter Ann Marie, and son Jack.  A pilar to his family and the hockey community and a decorated leader of our Nation, Jay passed away Tuesday night after a valiant battle with cancer.

Jay served as an officer in the United States Army for 23 years, serving as a commander in Desert Storm and the Battle of Mogadishu, as well as several other deployments including the 1994 Rwanda Genocide Campaign.  Jay is the recipient of both the Purple Heart and Bronze Star. 

From 1996-1999 Jay was the Vice President of the Hampton Roads Youth Hockey Association (HYRA) then was a founding member of the Greater Hampton Roads Travel Hockey Association (GHRTHA), known today as Whaler Nation, severing as President and Scheduler, as well as designer of the Logo and Color scheme we know today. 

Past, present, and future generations of Hampton Roads Whalers have had the opportunity to wear the blue and green and pursue their dreams because of Jay Stefaney.

May we celebrate the life and legacy of Mr. Jay Stefaney, and the impact he has made on so many.  Rest in Peace Jay. 

"Jay was one of my friends, I only have a few, none like him", stated Owner Patrick Cavanagh. "He was an inspiration to me and others in so many ways. Jay was a pilar for his family and was humble to never share his incredible contributions to our Nation as a decorated Officer.  He set the path for Whaler Nation and Hockey in Hampton Roads to strive for, something I have carefully followed and honored for over 20 years. Jay has changed the lives for the better of so many, his loss is extreme but he wanted us to celebrate his life and look ahead, today, we are trying to honor that wish with great sorrow in our hearts". 

More details of a memorial will be shared at a later date.  The family has requested privacy at this time.