2012-13 Griffiti - Issue #4

played until he plan is to have was almost 40,” somewhere to go Paetsch said. when this career “I learned a ton ends. I want to do from guys like whatever is best him, how they for my family.” came to the rink His family every day, how includes his wife they prepared, Jaclyn and son, how they kept Kellen, who the right attitude. turned two in Now that I’m December. a vet, I hope to “Becoming a provide the same father was the guidance and most amazing leadership. I’d like experience. Life to help by leaving has gotten so my legacy with much richer,” the young guys said Paetsch, who on this team.” celebrated the That includes birth of daughter financial advice.

Mira Ann in “As a hockey early March. player, you start “Coming home earning your from the rink now money at such is so exciting. I an early age can’t wait to get that you don’t home and see really grasp the that big smile of concept of saving his. He’s got so for retirement,” much energy and Paetsch said. even though he’s “Guys get all only 2, he loves Paetsch scored his first NHL goal in Toronto during a this money his hockey.”

Hockey Night in Canada broadcast. when they’re Watching 20 and then all of a sudden they’re 26 his son run around with his little hockey and the paycheck is no longer there. It’s stick has provided inspiration. something you have to think about.”

“For me, it’s made playing so much better,” It’s something that Paetsch, who has a strong Paetsch said. “He comes to the games and his entrepreneurial streak, has thought a lot about. eyes light up and he smiles ear to ear. It makes Paetsch is involved in a partnership that owns what I’m doing feel so more special when five commercial properties and the Marina my son can watch. It makes me want to play Restaurant & Bar in Rochester. In addition, that much longer so he can be a part of it.” he is part-owner of a company that specializes Paetsch, who turns 30 on March 30, feels he in geographic information system (GIS) still has several good mapping for the gas and electric industries. years ahead. “I love “I’ve been playing hockey since I was coming to the rink four years old – it’s been my business my every day,” he said after whole life,” Paetsch said. “At the same time, a recent practice. “My unfortunately, I know I can’t play forever. plan is to keep playing “When the day (to retire) comes, maybe I’ll until they have to rip stay in hockey and become a coach, but the the skates off my feet.”

38 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS