Pete Frates, the former college baseball star whose battle with ALS inspired the Ice Bucket Challenge, has passed away at the age of 34.
Frates, of Massachusetts, was a symbol of hope for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and raised awareness about the neurodegenerative disease that weakens muscles and impacts movement. There is no cure for ALS.
The Frates family confirmed his death on Monday in a heartfelt statement.
‘Today Heaven received our angel: Peter Frates. A husband to Julie, a father to Lucy, a son to John and Nancy, a brother to Andrew and Jennifer, Pete passed away surrounded by his loving family, peacefully at age 34, after a heroic battle with ALS,’ the statement said.
‘A natural born leader and the ultimate teammate, Pete was a role model for all, especially young athletes, who looked up to him for his bravery and unwavering positive spirit in the face of adversity,’ it continued.
Pete Frates, the former college baseball star whose battle with ALS inspired the Ice Bucket Challenge, has passed away at the age of 34, his family announced Monday
In 2014 he launched the ALS Bucket Challenge, a viral sensation in which people dumped buckets of ice on themselves or donated to ALS research and nominated friends to do the same. The challenge raised a whopping $200million worldwide
His alma mater Boston College, where he played baseball and graduated in 2007 and where he went on to become Director of Baseball Operations, shared a tribute for him on Monday
Former Red Sox player David Ortis shared this tribute to Pete on Monday saying: ‘I’m so very proud to have called you my friend. Heart hurts a lot today but ur name and legacy will live on forever. Rest easy my friend – we’ll continue to spread your word’
‘He was a noble fighter who inspired us all to use our talents and strengths in the service of others.’
His family noted that Frates, from Beverly, never complained about his illness, but dedicated his life to raising awareness about it.
‘Instead, he saw it as an opportunity to give hope to other patients and their families. In his lifetime, he was determined to change the trajectory of a disease that had no treatment or cure. As a result, through his determination—along with his faithful supporters, Team Frate Train—he championed the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge,’ the family statement said.
In college Frates played baseball for Boston College and graduated in May 2007.
After graduating he was named the director of baseball operations for Boston College baseball in 2012, that same year at the age of 27 he was diagnosed with ALS.
In 2014 he launched the ALS Bucket Challenge, a viral sensation in which people dumped buckets of ice on themselves or donated to ALS research and nominated friends to do the same.
The challenge raised over a whopping $200million worldwide, according to the ALS Association. More than 17million people participated in that challenge.
Pete Frates pictured above with his wife Julie Frates and their daughter Lucy in 2017
Frates shared this snap holding his young daughter in September this year
Family first! Pete smiles with his wife and daughter as they sport Boston College gear
Julie and Pete Frates (pictured together in 2014 in New York City) tied the knot in 2013
In October 2014 the New England Council named him the ‘New Englander of the Year. He also received the NCAA Inspiration of the Year Award in 2017.
Tributes poured in from Boston figures, where Frates was hailed a hero in his homestate.
Boston College shared a tribute to the late athlete in light of his death on Monday.
‘He accepted his illness and devoted the remaining years of his life to raising awareness of ALS and helping to raise money for a cure. He is a role model for all BC students and a beloved figure on our campus,’ the statement said.
Frates pictured above back in 2006 when he played on Boston College’s baseball team
Hockey team the Boston Bruins shared a tribute for Frates as well: ‘His courage, determination, and fight made Boston – and the world – proud. The impact he made on all of us will never be forgotten’
Major League Baseball shared this statement announcing Frates’ death saying: ‘All of us at Major League Baseball are proud that Pete and his family are members of the baseball family. we will remember Pete’s example as we continue to support the pursuit of a cure for ALS’
Former Red Sox player David Ortis shared this tribute to Pete on Monday saying: ‘I’m so very proud to have called you my friend. Heart hurts a lot today but ur name and legacy will live on forever. Rest easy my friend – we’ll continue to spread your word.’
Hockey team the Boston Bruins shared a tribute for Frates as well: ‘His courage, determination, and fight made Boston – and the world – proud. The impact he made on all of us will never be forgotten.’
He is survived by his wife Julie, daughter Lucy, and parents.
The family offered those who would liked to extend condolences and sympathy to consider making a donation to the Peter Frates Family Foundation, dedicated to aiding progressed ALS patients who want to stay at home.