Sean Romeo cause of death: Former Ohio State hockey star dead at 31

The death of former Ohio State hockey goalkeeper Sean Romeo at just 31 has left his family and former teammates mourning a player whose achievements extended well beyond the ice.

Romeo died on Saturday, October 24, nine days after suffering a stroke that developed into a series of devastating medical complications. His mother, Lisa Romeo , has since described how doctors fought to save him before further damage to his brain made recovery impossible.

The former Buckeyes standout initially suffered a stroke on October 15. His condition subsequently worsened, with increasing brain swelling and a second stroke affecting the opposite side of his brain.

"Sean's brain swelling continued to worsen," Lisa explained on a family support page. "He suffered another stroke, this time affecting the opposite side of his brain, along with bleeding into his brainstem."

"The damage was simply too extensive, and despite everything the doctors had done and how hard Sean had fought, his body could no longer overcome it."

Romeo's mother reveals final moments

Lisa confirmed that her son died peacefully, surrounded by people who loved him, bringing an end to an agonizing period for those closest to him.

"I find comfort in knowing he was not in pain and that he was surrounded by people who loved him more than words can express," she wrote.

The family also revealed that Romeo had registered as an organ donor, allowing his heart, lungs, liver and kidneys to be donated following his death.

"Even in death, our boy is a hero, giving others a second chance at life," Lisa said. "Please keep the recipients and their families in your prayers."

His mother later described the difficulty of sorting through his belongings, while thanking friends and relatives who had offered support and shared memories of her son.

Ohio State honors Romeo's achievements

Romeo established himself as one of Ohio State 's most accomplished goaltenders after transferring from the University of Maine.

He played a central role in the Buckeyes ' 2018 NCAA Frozen Four appearance, their first national semifinal appearance in 20 years, and was named Most Outstanding Player of the Midwest Regional.

The following season, he helped Ohio State capture the 2019 Big Ten championship, finishing his two playing seasons with a 30-17-7 record.

Romeo also set a school record with a shutout streak lasting 204 minutes and 27 seconds, becoming the first Buckeyes goalkeeper to record shutouts in three consecutive starts.

His academic achievements were equally impressive, earning the NCAA Elite 90 Award in 2018 before graduating with a finance degree in 2019.

Funeral confirmed for former hockey star

After leaving Ohio State , Romeo pursued professional hockey in the ECHL before beginning a business career in Chicago.

The university confirmed his death in a statement released Monday, October 26, remembering his contribution to the program between 2016 and 2019.

A celebration of his life will take place at 11 a.m. on November 9 at St. Michael the Archangel Roman Catholic Church in Cary, North Carolina.

While Romeo will be remembered for helping restore Ohio State to national prominence, his family's decision to honor his wish to donate his organs has created a legacy extending far beyond hockey.