Communities from across the region were deeply affected Friday after hearing about by the death of West Fargo native Grantley Johnson.

Johnson, who inspired the handle #grantleystrong, was battling a second round of acute myeloblastic leukemia when he died late Thursday evening. Johnson was 7 years old.

Johnson was involved with various sports teams during his courageous battle with leukemia. The Minot Minotauros were one of the organizations that Johnson spent time with.

Earlier this season, the Minotauros wore orange jerseys, Johnson’s favorite color, to show their support in his fight.

The Minotauros shared their condolences on Friday via social media.

“The Tauros players, coaches, and staff were saddened this morning to hear of the passing of Grantley Johnson. Grantley has been a part of our family since 2018 when his battle with leukemia began. Since then, Grantley has been our honorary captain, coach, and friend.

“The Tauros will forever be #TeamGrantley and this Wednesday, February 12th, we ask our fans to help us honor him by wearing orange to our game against the Aberdeen Wings.

“Our deepest condolences go out to Grantley’s family and all those lucky enough to have met him. We will miss you Grantley, rest in peace coach.”

There was an outpouring of support from across the NAHL, from other teams to former players to the league itself.

The Twitter account for the Bismarck Bobcats stated: “Some things are bigger than the game. The Bobcats hockey family sends love to the Minotauros community today. North Dakota strong. #TeamGrantley.”

Johnson’s story of perseverance touched lives not just in his hometown of West Fargo, or the state of North Dakota, but resonated with the junior hockey world across the country.

From New Jersey: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Johnson family and the @MinotauroHockey during this difficult time. We send our deepest condolences on behalf of the New Jersey Titans’ entire organization.”

Or Corpus Christi, Texas: “The IceRays send our deepest condolences to the Johnson family and @MinotauroHockey organization. We’re all on #TeamGrantley.”

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