Remembering a Broncos Legend
The Western Michigan Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and the Western Michigan hockey program are in mourning after the passing of Tom Auge, a cherished alumnus who died at the age of 57. Auge, a Park Ridge, Illinois native, wore the Broncos jersey for four seasons and remains one of the program’s most respected figures.
During his collegiate career he amassed 109 points on 41 goals and 68 assists, placing him 46th all‑time in scoring for the university. He appeared in 133 games, the third‑most in program history, and helped the team secure 72 victories. His leadership culminated in his senior year when he served as team captain and earned both the Koha Gridner award and a spot on the CCHA All‑Academic First Team.
Auge’s impact extended beyond the rink. He contributed 32 points as a freshman, notching 13 goals and 19 assists in 42 games, and continued to grow each season, culminating in a 41‑point senior campaign with 15 goals and 26 assists. His consistent performance and dedication made him a model student‑athlete for future generations.
He is survived by his wife Michelle, his sons Raleigh and Ryland, his brothers Wayne, John, Suzy Caliendo, and Emily Friel, as well as his sister‑in‑law Kathy Auge, brother‑in‑law Tony Friel, and his in‑laws Chris Devenny and Flo Devenny. The family’s deep roots in the community were evident in the outpouring of support from former teammates, coaches, and fans.
The loss of Tom Auge resonates throughout Western Michigan, where his legacy lives on in the values he embodied — perseverance, leadership, and academic excellence. His story serves as a reminder of the profound impact a single individual can have on a program and the broader university community.