Jeff Blashill misses practice for a heartbreaking reason.

The Chicago Blackhawks were missing a very important figure on the ice today when head coach Jeff Blashill was notably absent from practice. Those in attendance were quick to notice that Blashill wasn't on the ice with Blackhawks assistant coach Andres Sorensen leading the practice.

Unfortunately the reason for Blashill's absence would be revealed and it is a heartbreaking one, with reports indicating that Blashill is busy attending a funeral today. The funeral is for Bob Facca, the father of Blackhawks scout Rob Facca, and the tragedy has hit close home for Blashill who has long been a friend of Rob's and as a result has been personally impacted by this tragedy.

I am happy to report that Blashill isn't the only one who is taking the time to support his friend, with National Hockey League insider Elliotte Friedman making mention of Bob's passing during his most recent column.

From Friedman:

And, there are times along the trail I run into friendly and energetic Blackhawks scout Rob Facca, whose father, Bob, died this week. It’s never easy, but it’s even harder around Christmas. This is supposed to be the best family time.

I'd also like to take a moment to remember one of Bob's greatest achievements, one in which he became known simply as "Grandpa Bob." Bob walked a staggering 4000 kilometers across Canada in an effort to raise money for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a condition that impacted his grandson Louie. As a result of his efforts Bob helped raise a million dollars to fund research for a cure, impacting the lives of countless families in the process.

My most sincere condolences go out to the entire Blackhawks organization, the Facca family, Bob's wife Wendy, his children Rob, Joey and Lisa, as well as his grandchildren Louie, Oakley, Bella, Khloe and Clara.