Obituary – Death – Cause of death News :
Tragic Loss: Husband of U.S. Women’s Water Polo Star Maddie Musselman Passes Away at 31
The water polo community is mourning the loss of Pat Woepse, the husband of U.S. women’s water polo star Maddie Musselman, who tragically passed away at the age of 31 from a rare form of lung cancer. Woepse, a former water polo player at UCLA, was diagnosed with NUT carcinoma in September 2023 but was determined to see his wife compete in her third Olympics, which she did over the summer in Paris.
In a heartbreaking Instagram post, Musselman shared the news of her husband’s passing, describing him as the light of her life and her person. She praised his courage and strength, noting that he never complained during his battle with the rare cancer.
The couple met at a friend’s wedding in 2022, got married the following year, and soon learned of Woepse’s terminal diagnosis. Despite the challenges they faced, their love and bond remained strong, with Woepse always supporting Musselman in her water polo career.
Musselman and Team USA had previously won Olympic gold in 2020 and 2016, but in Paris, they fell short and lost in the bronze medal game. Despite the heartbreaking loss, Musselman’s dedication to the sport and her husband’s memory remains unwavering.
The water polo community has come together to support Musselman during this difficult time, honoring Woepse’s memory and celebrating his life. The legacy of Pat Woepse will undoubtedly live on in the hearts of all who knew him, leaving behind a lasting impact on the sport he loved.
Husband of Team USA water polo star Maddie Musselman dies at 31 – NBC Los Angeles
Who was Pat Woepse and what was his diagnosis?
Pat Woepse was a former water polo player at UCLA who was diagnosed with NUT carcinoma in September 2023. Despite his diagnosis, he was determined to see his wife, U.S. women’s water polo star Maddie Musselman, compete in her third Olympics.
How did Maddie Musselman describe her husband’s passing?
In an emotional Instagram post, Maddie Musselman described her husband’s passing as heartbreaking. She mentioned that Patrick gained his angel wings on 10/10/24 and was surrounded by family. She expressed deep sorrow at the loss of her first love and the best husband she could have ever asked for.
How did Pat Woepse’s battle with cancer unfold?
Pat Woepse battled the rare cancer for over a year and never complained. He fought tirelessly every day to be with his loved ones for as long as he could. His courage and strength were evident from the very beginning of his diagnosis.
What was the relationship between Maddie Musselman and Pat Woepse like?
Maddie Musselman and Pat Woepse met at a friend’s wedding in 2022 and got married the following year. Despite learning that Woepse had just months to live, they decided to tie the knot as soon as possible. Their relationship was filled with love and support, with Woepse encouraging Musselman to continue practicing with her team even during his illness.
How did their marriage impact Maddie Musselman’s Olympic journey?
The unwavering support of her husband, Pat Woepse, played a significant role in Maddie Musselman’s Olympic journey. With Team USA, she won gold in 2020 and 2016, but the team fell short in the bronze medal game in Paris. Despite the challenges, Musselman’s dedication to the sport and the memory of her late husband motivated her to continue competing at the highest level.